Begonia Lucerna: The Big, Bold, and Beautiful Angel Wing Begonia
I’m Ferb Vu, and I’m a passionate plant enthusiast. One of my all-time favorite flowering houseplants is the Begonia Lucerna, also known as the Angel Wing Begonia. This beauty is a true conversation starter, with its massive, glossy leaves and cascading clusters of vibrant blooms.
Over the years, I’ve fielded many questions about this stunning Begonia. So, I decided to compile a comprehensive FAQ to answer everything you ever wanted to know about Begonia Lucerna.
What is a Begonia Lucerna?
The Begonia Lucerna is a stunning hybrid Begonia, a result of the horticultural magic wielded by Wettstein of Lucerne, Switzerland, in 1892. Originally christened ‘Corallina de Lucerna,’ this classic cultivar has earned its place in the hearts of plant lovers for generations.
This architectural wonder boasts large, asymmetrical, angel-wing-shaped leaves, typically reaching 15 centimeters in length. Their color varies from a vibrant green when young to a deeper, more mature bottle green. Tiny white dots pepper the foliage, adding a touch of whimsy.
But the true showstopper comes in the form of the blooms. Begonia Lucerna produces clusters of large, coral-red to rose-pink flowers, adding a pop of color to any indoor space.
Begonia Lucerna vs Maculata
On the other hand, my Begonia Maculata is a party in a pot! The leaves are a lighter green, splashed generously with large, uneven polka dots in a delightful mix of white and silver. It feels more whimsical than the Lucerna, with a bushy growth habit that encourages me to pinch it back occasionally to keep it full. While it’s not quite as low-maintenance as the Lucerna, the occasional extra effort is rewarded by its constant display of playful charm.
Begonia Lucerna vs Begonia Corallina
There’s a common misconception that Begonia Lucerna and Begonia Corallina are entirely different plants. The truth is, Begonia Lucerna is a specific cultivar within the Begonia Corallina family. Think of it like this: Begonia Corallina is the broader category, and Begonia Lucerna is a unique variety with specific characteristics, like its particularly large leaves.
How to Care for Your Begonia Lucerna?
Begonia Lucerna is a relatively easy-going plant, perfect for beginner and seasoned plant parents alike. Here are some key things to remember:
- Light: Begonia Lucerna thrives in bright, indirect light. Avoid harsh midday sun, which can scorch the leaves.
- Water: Water your Begonia Lucerna when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
- Humidity: Begonia Lucerna appreciates moderate humidity. If your home is dry, consider using a humidifier or placing the plant on a pebble tray filled with water.
- Temperature: This Begonia prefers warm temperatures between 65-80 degrees Fahrenheit (18-27 degrees Celsius).
- Fertilizer: During the growing season (spring and summer), fertilize your Begonia Lucerna with a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength once a month. Withhold fertilizer during the winter months.
Common Begonia Lucerna Problems
While generally a resilient plant, Begonia Lucerna can face a few challenges:
- Brown Leaves: This can be caused by underwatering, overwatering, or too much direct sunlight.
- Leaf Drop: Similar to brown leaves, sudden leaf drop is often a response to stress caused by watering issues or inadequate light.
- Pests: Mealybugs and spider mites can be occasional nuisances. Address them promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Propagating Your Begonia Lucerna
Sharing the beauty of your Begonia Lucerna is easy! Here’s how to propagate it:
- Stem Cuttings: Take a 4-inch stem cutting just below a leaf node. Remove the lower leaves and plant the stem cutting in a pot with moist, well-draining soil.
- Leaf Cuttings: Begonia Lucerna can also be propagated from leaf cuttings. Cut a healthy leaf along with a petiole (leaf stalk). Plant the petiole in moist soil and keep it humid.
Begonia Lucerna: A Timeless Beauty
The Begonia Lucerna, with its architectural form, stunning foliage, and vibrant blooms, is a true gem of the plant world. With a little TLC, this easy-to-care-for Begonia will reward you with years of beauty and elegance in your home.
