Begonia maculata
Begonia maculata (Polka Dot) Care Guide
Featured photobegonia-maculata.jpgBegonia maculata is a Brazilian cane begonia with bold silver polka dots on dark-green angel-wing leaves and a deep red leaf underside. Mature plants produce drooping clusters of white-pink flowers throughout the year. It is one of the most ornamental cane begonias and one of the easier ones for typical homes when humidity and watering are kept steady.
Care facts at a glance
- Light
- Bright indirect
- Water
- Water when the top 2 to 3 cm of mix has dried.
- Humidity
- 50–70 %
- Temperature
- 18–27 °C
- Soil
- Well-draining mix of peat or coir with perlite; slightly acidic.
- Toxicity
- Toxic if eaten in quantity due to insoluble calcium oxalates; treat as ornamental only. (humans) · Toxic to cats and dogs per ASPCA Begonia listing — tubers most toxic. (pets)
- Origin
- Forests of southeastern Brazil.
- Mature size
- 60 to 120 cm tall indoors.
Overview
Begonia maculata was described in the 1820s and remains one of the most-grown cane begonias. The wightii cultivar with the boldest silver spots is the most common in trade.
Care Priorities
- Bright filtered light keeps the silver dots bold; deep shade fades them.
- Stake taller stems — the canes get top-heavy.
- Water at the soil only; wet leaves develop powdery mildew.
- Pinch back leggy stems to encourage branching.
Common Problems
White powder on leaves is mildew from poor airflow and wet leaves. Yellow leaves are overwatering. Crispy edges are dry air. Long bare canes with leaves only at the top need pinching back.
Sources & further reading (3)
- encyclopedia — accessed 2026-04-28
- botanical-garden — accessed 2026-04-28
- toxicity-database — accessed 2026-04-28
Frequently asked questions
Why is my polka dot begonia getting white patches?
Powdery mildew. Improve airflow, water at the soil only, and consider a milk-or-baking-soda spray for mild cases.
How often does it flower?
Mature plants in good light flower repeatedly through the year, with drooping clusters of white-pink blooms. Cut spent stalks at the base.
Can I overwinter it?
Cane begonias do not go dormant but slow markedly in winter. Reduce watering, hold off feed, and keep above 16 °C.
