Angel Wing Begonia, which is also called Begonia coccinea, is a lovely plant that gardeners love for its beautiful leaves. It looks beautiful in any garden, indoors or out, thanks to its unique leaves that look like angel wings.
Growing an angel wing begonia indoors produces a year-round houseplant with attractive foliage. The foliage is speckled or streaked and appears on glossy green leaves with red tints or backing. If placed correctly, an angel wing begonia houseplant will bloom in pendulous clusters of flowers. right area.
Cane begonias are among the best-performing and easiest-to-grow begonias. They are only second to wax begonias in terms of ease of cultivation and beauty.
Angel wing begonias are the most well-known type of begonia. The plant comes from Brazil and has stems that stand up straight. It has colorful leaves with dots on them and a beautiful show of flowers.
The plants are not hard to grow, and if you meet a few simple conditions, you can plant and grow them indoors all year. They will grow at a moderately fast rate, with noticeable growth visible in as little as six weeks.
With my years of experience as a master gardener, I’ll show you how to plant, grow, and take care of an Angel Wing Begonia in this article. I’ll teach you the right way to take care of them so you can enjoy their beauty for years to come.
With their vibrant, wing-shaped leaves and delicate flowers, angel wing begonias are truly stunning. However, as a tropical plant originally from Brazil, they require warmer temperatures to thrive. So what happens when the weather starts to cool? Can angel wings handle lower indoor temperatures or do they require special care?
Read on to learn the ideal temperature range for angel wing begonias along with tips to help your plant successfully transition through cooler seasons.
Understanding the Angel Wing Begonia’s Preferred Temperature Zone
Angel wing begonias grow best with daytime temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C) and around 60°F (15°C) at night. This warm consistent range mimics their native humid tropical habitat.
Temperatures dropping below 50°F (10°C) can damage an angel wing begonia. Prolonged exposure to colder air will cause the leaves to yellow, wrinkle, wilt, and eventually drop. Frost damage can be lethal.
So in general, angel wings perform optimally in average room temperatures. They thrive during the warmer spring and summer months. Cooler autumn and winter weather often requires taking protective measures.
Acclimatizing Your Angel Wing Begonia to Cooler Temps
When bringing your angel wing begonia indoors for winter, it helps to gradually transition the plant to lower indoor temperatures.
Start by placing it in the warmest room in your home away from cold drafts Move it to a slightly cooler room over the course of a week or two so the change is gradual.
You can further buffer the plant by grouping it with other houseplants. The foliage will help insulate the surrounding air.
Aim to maintain indoor temperatures above 65°F as much as possible Monitor the plant for signs of cold stress like drooping Be ready to move it if needed.
Supplementing with Grow Lights
Shorter winter days mean less natural sunlight indoors. Grow lights are a great way to supplement natural light while adding extra heat.
LED grow lights work especially well for begonias. Mount the panel just above the plant so the LEDs shine directly on the foliage. The bulbs emit minimal heat but will warm the leaves and surrounding air.
Place a small thermometer at the soil line to monitor the temp. Adjust the height of the lights as needed to maintain the ideal growing zone.
Using Heating Pads
Heating pads or heat mats designed for seedling germination can provide critical bottom warmth.
Simply place the pot with the angel wing directly on the pad. The gentle heat emanating up will protect sensitive roots while warming the surrounding air.
Use a probe thermometer in the soil to set the pad to the desired temperature during the day. Turn down a few degrees at night.
Creating a Mini Greenhouse
One simple protective measure is creating a mini greenhouse around your angel wing begonia.
You can build a basic greenhouse using a clear plastic storage container or mini cloche dome. The transparent sides allow light in while trapping heat inside.
Open the greenhouse for a period during the day to allow ventilation and prevent excess moisture. Monitor humidity levels.
Using Cold-Hardy Cultivars
When shopping for angel wings, look for cultivars specifically bred to withstand cooler temperatures, such as:
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Dragon Wing Red – reliable down to 45°F (7°C)
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Art Hodes – handles temps to 40°F (4°C)
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Sophie Cecile – cold tolerant to 30°F (-1°C)
While not frost proof, these varieties better tolerate lower indoor temperatures than traditional angel wings.
Adjusting Watering and Humidity
Cooler, drier winter air affects moisture levels around angel wing begonias. Monitor soil moisture closely and water only when the top inch is dry. Reduce watering frequency to prevent soggy soil.
Increase humidity around the plant by misting leaves, using a humidifier, or placing the pot on a pebble tray. Keep humidity between 40-50%.
Protecting Outdoor Angel Wings from Frost
In frost-free climates, angel wings can remain in the garden year-round. If winter temps may dip below 32°F (0°C), you’ll need to take preventative action.
Covering the plants daily is tedious. Instead, construct a cold frame or temporary greenhouse using plastic sheeting hooped over a PVC frame.
Place a portable heater inside to provide warmth on cold nights. Remove any coverings during the day to prevent overheating.
Moving Indoors Before the First Frost
If constructing cold frames isn’t possible, identify your average first frost date and be prepared to move containerized plants indoors several weeks prior.
Select the largest, healthiest plants to save. Prune any damaged growth first. Transplant into a pot at least 2 inches larger with fresh potting mix if rootbound.
Pick a suitable indoor space with sufficient light and warmth. Acclimatize the plant gradually before setting it in its overwintering spot.
Fall Care Routine to Prepare Tender Plants
An important part of overwintering angel wings starts weeks before frost hits with proper fall prep:
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Cease fertilizing 6-8 weeks before first frost to slow growth.
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Prune back long stems around early October so plants are more compact.
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Check for pests like aphids and mites then treat accordingly.
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Place plants in sunny south-facing windows to gradually adjust to lower light levels.
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Move containerized plants closer to the house foundation for added insulation.
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Begin transitioning indoor plants to cooler rooms of the home.
By following these simple tips starting in early fall, your angel wings will adjust more smoothly once moved inside for winter.
Ideal Growing Conditions for Angel Wing Begonias: A Summary
Here’s a quick overview of the recommended care guidelines to keep your angel wing begonia thriving year-round:
Lighting
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Bright, indirect sunlight
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South or west-facing exposure
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12-14 hours daily
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Supplement with grow lights in winter
Temperature
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Daytime – 65-75°F (18-24°C)
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Nighttime – above 60°F (15°C)
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Avoid lower than 50°F (10°C)
Humidity
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40-50% relative humidity
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Increase levels in winter
Watering
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Allow soil to dry out between waterings
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Water deeply until it flows from drainage holes
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Reduce frequency in winter
Soil
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Rich, well-draining potting mix
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Peat moss, compost & perlite
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Orchid bark mixes also work well
Fertilizer
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Balanced liquid or water-soluble
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Every 2 weeks during growing season
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Reduce or stop in winter
Pot Size
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At least 4 inches wider than the root ball
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Re-pot in spring as needed
Recreate these warm, humid conditions as much as possible and your angel wing begonia will continue gracing your indoor garden despite cooler seasonal temps.
5 Tips for Overwintering Tropical Plants Like Angel Wing Begonias
The vibrant beauty of tropical plants like angel wing begonias blossoms indoors, but cooler weather poses challenges for these tender specimens. Follow these key tips to successfully overwinter your tropical houseplants:
1. Provide Grow Lights for Supplemental Lighting
Shorter winter days mean reduced natural sunlight streaming into your home. Set up full spectrum grow lights to mimic the intensity and hours of light your plants need to stay healthy. LED grow lights work well for begonias – place the panel just above the leaves.
2. Use Cold-Hardy Varieties When Possible
Look for tropical plant cultivars specifically bred to handle cooler temperatures. Angel wing begonia options like Dragon Wing Red and Art Hodes tolerate lower temperatures better than traditional varieties.
3. Group Plants Together for Insulation
Create a tropical oasis by placing tropical plants together in a bright, warm spot. The surrounding foliage helps insulate the microclimate around the plants. Avoid drafty areas.
4. Monitor Moisture Closely
Lower humidity coupled with reduced water needs can leave tropicals prone to drought stress. Check soil moisture frequently. Mist leaves or use a humidifier to supplement humidity.
5. Acclimatize Plants Slowly
Begin transitioning plants to cooler areas of your home weeks before you plan to move them inside for winter. The gradual change prevents shock from an abrupt temperature drop.
While tropical plants require a little extra care through winter, the beauty they provide makes the added effort worthwhile! Follow these indoor overwintering tips and you’ll have happy, healthy begonias and tropicals year after year.
Troubleshooting Common Angel Wing Begonia Issues
Angel wing begonias may run into problems when conditions aren’t to their liking. Here are some common issues and how to remedy them:
Leggy growth
- Caused by insufficient light
- Move to a brighter location or provide grow lights
Leaf drop
- Due to cold drafts or temperatures under 50°F
- Increase heat around plant with grow lights or heating pads
Brown leaf tips
- Result of low humidity or underwatering
- Increase humidity and water more frequently
Leaf spots
- Often a fungal infection exacerbated by excess moisture
- Improve airflow and water only when soil is partly dry
Failure to bloom
- Lack of bright light prevents flowering
- Provide 12-14 hours of bright, indirect sunlight
Wrinkled leaves
- Signifies underwatering or dehydration
- Water more frequently and increase humidity
White powdery coating
- Caused by powdery mildew fungus
- Prune affected growth and treat with antifungal spray
Closely observing your plant and swiftly addressing issues will keep your angel wing begonia looking its best. Don’t hesitate to prune away any damaged leaves or stems to improve the plant’s appearance and health.
Enjoying Angel Wing Begonias as a Low-Maintenance Houseplant
With their eye-catching foliage and delicate flowers, angel wing begonias add a graceful touch of the tropics to indoor spaces. By understanding their ideal growing conditions and adjusting care through the seasons, you can maintain their beauty all year long.
Avoid temperature extremes, provide bright filtered light, and water thoroughly yet infrequently. Regular pruning keeps plants full and compact. Seek out cold-hardy varieties if your home cools considerably in winter.
Although native to steamy jungle habitats, angel wing begonias adapt remarkably well as low-maintenance houseplants. Their stunning foliage and blooms bring levity and wonder to any room when properly cared for. A beloved staple of indoor gardens, angel wings are a wonderful way to appreciate the vibrancy of the plant world all year round
Types of Angel Wing Begonia
The genus Begonia encompasses a wide variety of species and cultivars, each with its unique characteristics and charm. Here are the most common types of Angel Wing Begonia that you can consider adding to your collection:
Begonia ‘Silver Wings’: It’s a hybrid variety that combines the beauty of Begonia coccinea with unique silver-spotted foliage.
The Begonia ‘Corallina de Lucerna’ has coral-colored flowers and glossy green leaves that make your garden feel cool and tropical. Its coral-colored flowers resemble delicate coral reefs, while the glossy green leaves provide a lush backdrop.
Begonia ‘Gryphon’: This unique variety showcases large, scalloped leaves with an interesting silver pattern and bronze undersides. The leaves feature an intricate silver pattern, creating a mesmerizing display.
Begonia “Dragon Wing” is a show-stopper with its glossy, asymmetrical leaves and lots of gorgeous red or pink flowers. The glossy, asymmetrical leaves add an interesting touch to the overall appearance of the plant.
Begonia ‘Charles Jaros’: This dwarf hybrid can reach a height of 2′ and has lovely pink flowers.
Begonia ‘Splish Splash’: This variety has deep green foliage with white splashes and dark pink flowers.
Angel Wing Begonia Care
Angel Wing Begonias, whose scientific name is Begonia coccinea, are beautiful plants that make any room, indoors or out, look more elegant. People love these begonias because they come from the tropical rainforests of Brazil and have leaves that look like folded angel wings. They also have bright flowers.
Angel wing begonias make wonderful, large additions to outdoor gardens in warm climates. They require shade from direct sun and moist, well-draining soil. Most varieties also thrive in containers with drainage holes, both indoors and out.
They can be kept inside in a bright spot all year or moved outside in the summer. When overnight temperatures reach 55°F, it is time to bring them inside for the winter.
Keep the plants at eye level to enjoy their distinct appearance as much as possible. These plants can grow to be quite large, with slightly brittle stems developing along the way. Larger plants should be staked up to protect their canes because the foliage is so lovely.
Angel wing begonias may not flower if there is insufficient light, a cold snap, or inadequate fertilizer. They require shade from the direct sun, but plenty of bright indirect light. Keep them above 55°F and begin feeding them with a high phosphorus flowering food in the spring.
To ensure your Angel Wing Begonia thrives, let’s delve deeper into its care requirements.
When it comes to light, Angel Wing Begonia prefers bright, indirect light. It’s best to put it near a window that gets filtered sunlight because direct sunlight can burn its leaves.
However, too little light can result in the plant becoming leggy and losing its vibrant colors. It’s essential to strike a balance and observe how the plant responds to its light conditions.
One interesting thing about Angel Wing Begonias is that they have evolved to do well in the understory of the rainforest, where they get some shade. This adaptation allows them to grow and flourish in shaded areas with filtered light. Mimicking these natural conditions will ensure optimal growth for your begonia.
Providing the right soil for Angel Wing Begonia is crucial for its overall health. A well-draining soil mix enriched with organic matter is ideal. You can create a suitable mix by combining equal parts of peat moss, perlite, and rich garden soil. This blend ensures proper drainage while retaining enough moisture for the plant’s roots.
In the wild, Angel Wing Begonias grow on the floor of the rainforest, where the soil is rich in organic matter and drains well. This kind of soil makes it possible for the plant’s roots to breathe and keeps them from getting too wet, which can cause root rot. By recreating these soil conditions, you are providing your begonia with a nurturing environment.
Watering Angel Wing Begonia correctly is essential to prevent both overwatering and underwatering. If you want to be safe, water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
To avoid root rot, make sure to use water that is at room temperature and keep the saucer from getting too full of water. Additionally, misting the leaves occasionally will help maintain the plant’s desired humidity level.
In their natural habitat, Angel Wing Begonias receive regular rainfall, but the soil quickly drains excess water.
To get this natural watering pattern, you should give your begonia a lot of water and let the extra water drain out. This prevents water from sitting in the pot, which can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
Angel Wing Begonia thrives in moderately warm temperatures ranging from 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C). It’s important to protect the plant from extreme temperature fluctuations, such as drafts or excessive heat.
In terms of humidity, the plant prefers moderate to high humidity levels. You can get the right amount of humidity by putting the pot on a tray with water and pebbles or by using a humidifier.
In arid climates or if kept indoors, they may require additional humidity, especially during the dry winter months. You can lightly mist them but do not leave droplets on the leaves for too long. To supplement indoors, place them on a pebble tray filled with water or run a humidifier nearby.
During the growing season, give your Angel Wing Begonia a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks. This will give it the nutrients it needs. Dilute the fertilizer to half the recommended strength to prevent over-fertilization, which can damage the plant. During the dormant season, reduce fertilization to once a month or suspend it altogether.
Angel Wing Begonias don’t need a lot of food, but they do need to be fertilized regularly to make sure they get all the nutrients they need for healthy growth. The balanced fertilizer has a mix of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which helps plants grow strong leaves, bright flowers, and overall health.
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FAQ
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