Begonia longipetola

Begonia longipetiolata is a rhizomatous and epiphytic begonia species native to tropical West Africa. Its leaves are borne on notably long petioles (hence the specific epithet longipetiolata meaning longpetioled), resulting in a delicate, suspended appearance. The leaf blades tend to be lanceolate to slightly elliptic, asymmetrical at the base as typical for begonias, with a dark green, slightly glossy surface. Under good conditions the petioles may take on a reddish tint, and the plant may produce slender flowering stems bearing male inflorescences of small, palecoloured tepals.

Native to: This species is native to West and Central tropical Africaspecifically from southern Nigeria to Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon and the Gulf of Guinea islands. It grows as an epiphyte in humid forest habitats, often on trees or on mossy trunks in shaded, moist areas.

Water: Use a richly organdense but welldraining substrate suited for epiphytic or semiepiphytic begonias. Keep the medium evenly moist but avoid waterlogging; allow the top1/3 of the potting mix to lighten slightly before watering again. Avoid prolonged standing water at the crown.

Light: Provide bright filtered light or strong indirect daylight. Avoid direct midday sun which may scorch the leaves. A spot near an eastfacing window or behind a sheer curtain from a southfacing window is ideal. Lower light will reduce growth vigor and may lead to leggy petioles.

Humidity: Because the species is epiphytic and originates from moist forestunderstorey habitats, it benefits from high humidity,aim for around 6080% relative humidity. This makes it a good candidate for a terrarium or humid indoor space, provided air circulation is maintained.

Temperature: Maintain indoor temperatures of around 2028C during the day, and avoid allowing temperatures to drop below about 15C. Protect from cold drafts and very dry air from heaters which may cause stress or leaf drop.