Species iron cross begonia
White flower with yellow center, magenta petiole burgundy-lime stems and buds, green-black leaves .

iron cross begonia

Begonia masoniana

Iron Cross Begonia (Begonia masoniana) is a unique and beautiful plant with large, showy foliage. Its green leaves are marked with a deep purple, cross-shaped pattern with white veins radiating outward, giving the leaves their signature "iron cross" look. It's a great choice for brightening up semi-shaded areas or a low light living space. The foliage develops an interesting tuberous shape over time. It produces clusters of white to pink bell shaped flowers that appear in late summer and fall. It's truly a spectacular plant that's sure to be a conversation starter in any garden!

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Cutting

Hardiness Zone:

11 - 12

Flowers:

Greenish-white Flowers

Sun:

part sun/part shade,filtered shade

Soil:

Acidic, Alkaline, Well-drained

Fruits:

Fruits Ready In

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

silver,green,gray,gray

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Indoors:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Iron Cross Begonia should be watered thoroughly, but then allowed to dry out in between waterings. As a tropical plant, it should be watered frequently while actively growing, once or twice a week. During the colder months, the plant should be watered less. Make sure that the soil is allowed to dry out between waterings. During the growing season, water when the top inch of soil is dry. During the dormant season, only water the plant when the top 2 inches of soil are dry.

sunlight

Iron Cross Begonia needs bright, indirect sunlight for 4-6 hours each day. It does best when placed in an east- or west-facing window and exposed to morning or evening light rather than the hot, midday sun. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves of this plant and cause them to yellow. Be sure to rotate the pot occasionally to keep the foliage even and the plant growing.

pruning

Iron Cross begonias should be pruned once or twice a year, in the spring and early summer. Prune away any dead or damaged stems, as well as any stems that are growing out of control. Cut away no more than 1-third of the plant's total foliage to maintain the health of the begonia. Begin pruning from the base of the plant, and work your way up to the top. Make sure to use sharp and sterilized pruning tools to avoid infection and damage to the begonia.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Begonia masoniana typically starts flowering in late spring or early summer, usually between May and July.

Starts Flowering

Begonia masoniana typically starts flowering in late spring or early summer, usually between May and July.

Hardiness Map