Angel Wing Begonias Are the Underrated Plant Everyone Should Grow

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Begonias are one of the largest groups of flowering plants with more than 2,000 species and more than 10,000 hybrids! One of the most popular types are cane begonias. With silvery spots on the foliage and shapely foliage, they’re eye-catching plants that make a lovely addition to your collection. Many of the cane type begonias were given the common name “angel wing” begonias because the leaves resemble wings.

Native to South America, these plants are evergreen, shrubby perennials. Angel wing begonias are typically grown as houseplants, though they will do okay outdoors in part shade. They’re moderate growers, reaching heights of 2 to 3 feet and widths of about 2 feet. This category of begonias often is considered the easiest to grow indoors.

The stems of angel wing, or cane begonias, are swollen at the joint, which makes them look like bamboo, giving the group its name. Angel wing begonias will get cascading clusters of pink, white, orange or red flowers at the ends of stems, though only if they get sufficient light.

Here’s what else you need to know about growing and caring for angel wing begonias.

How to Care for Angel Wing Begonia

Light

Indoors, angel wing begonias like bright, indirect light. That means they’ll do well in an east-, west- or south-facing window, though they don’t like direct sunlight, especially in the summer.

In the winter, however, they can tolerate a bit of direct sunlight because it’s not as intense. Also, keep these plants away from heating or air conditioning vents because they won’t enjoy hot or cold air blasting them.

Soil

Angel wing begonias do well in regular potting mix. As with all houseplants, make sure there’s a hole in the bottom of the pot to allow excess water to drain out. This plant also prefers higher humidity levels, so group it with other houseplants (which transpire, or release moisture), or run a small area humidifier near them. Misting is not recommended because it does not boost humidity, no matter what you’ve heard.

Angel wing begonias also seem to do well when slightly root-bound, so only repot them when they’ve outgrown their containers. Signs it’s time to repot include the plant or pot tipping over, or the potting mix dries out faster than it used to. Repot into a container that’s about two inches bigger. You also may need to stake the plant if it starts to get top heavy.

Fertilizer

Though not entirely necessary, you can fertilize these plants with any balanced fertilizer at about one-quarter to half the recommended strength on the package. Choosing one with a slightly higher phosphorus number (the “P” in N-P-K on fertilizer labels) may encourage them to bloom.

Outdoor Needs

Outdoors, keep angel wing begonias in shade, although some morning sun is okay. Do not allow them to receive midday or afternoon sun because they will fry. They’re also not frost-tolerant, so be sure to bring the plant back indoors in the fall before temperatures drop into the 40s. In USDA Hardiness zones 10 and 11 (find your zone here), they can be grown outdoors year round as long as it doesn't freeze.

How to Water Angel Wing Begonia

Angel wing begonias like to stay lightly moist, not sopping wet. The fastest way to kill these plants is to overwater them because they are susceptible to root rot. Poke your finger in the soil, and water only when the top inch or so feels dry. When in doubt, wait a day or two before watering. As with most houseplants, it's better to err on the side of too dry rather than too wet.

How to Propagate Angel Wing Begonia

These are extremely easy to propagate. Take a whole leaf, including the petiole (or stem). Dip the end in rooting hormone, and poke it into a pot filled with potting mix. Keep it slightly moist and place it in a warm, bright area and wait for it to root, which should take a few weeks.

Making new baby plants is a good way to keep your angel wing begonia going because older plants sometimes become leggy and unattractive. By propagating, you’ll always have a fresh, new plant, and can compost older, less visually appealing plants.

Are Angel Wing Begonias Toxic to Pets?

Unfortunately, angel wing begonias (as well as all other types of begonias) are toxic to cats and dogs, according to the ASPCA. Begonias contain soluble calcium oxalates, which can cause intense salivation, burning mouth, and GI distress if ingested.

If you know you have a nibbler, keep this plant away from them. And if you suspect your pet has eaten any, even if you’re not completely sure, call your vet ASAP. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Where to Buy Angel Wing Begonia

'Wightii' Polka Dot Angel Wing Begonia

‘Flamingo Queen’ Angel Wing Begonia

'Lynda Dawn' Angel Wing Begonia

'Harmony's Dark Warlock' Angel Wing Begonia

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