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bright indirect light (3-6 feet from a south or west window, or right next to an east window. Under a grow light, 6-10 inches away works well); avoid extended direct sun (right in the window where sun actually hits the leaves. A strong grow light 4-6 inches away can substitute) which scorches the large leaves. A well-lit east or west-facing window works well. Can handle some winter sun.Light
Allow the top inch of soil to dry before watering. Water at the base to keep the hairy leaves dry -- wet foliage on this plant is an invitation for powdery mildew. Use room-temperature water.Water
Prefers high humidity (60-80%. Group your plants together, set them on a pebble tray with water, or run a humidifier nearby) given its rainforest origins, but avoid misting (note: misting does not actually raise humidity meaningfully. A pebble tray or humidifier is more effective) directly onto the hairy leaves. Use a pebble tray or humidifier instead.Humidity
Not frost-hardy; only evergreen outdoors in USDA zone 10 or warmer. Indoors, keep above 60°F and away from cold drafts.Temperature
moderateDifficulty
Begonia haageana plant

Begonia haageana

Begonia haageana

Moderate

Begonia haageana -- also widely sold as Begonia scharffii -- is a Victorian-era houseplant favorite from Brazil that earns the 'Hairy Begonia' nickname honestly: the entire plant, from stems to leaves to flower buds, is covered in soft white bristles that give it a velvety, frosted appearance. The leaves grow large and dramatically asymmetrical, olive-green on top and deep burgundy underneath, and the cascading clusters of white flowers with red hairs bloom from June through November. It is a genuinely striking plant with an antique, slightly theatrical look.

Care Guide

How to grow Begonia haageana

Light

bright indirect light (3-6 feet

Water

Allow the top inch of

Humidity

60-80%

Temperature

Not frost-hardy; only evergreen outdoors

Soil

Well-draining mix rich in nutrients;

Propagation

Stem cuttings are the most

Common Problems

Powdery mildew is the main

Did You Know

Fun Facts

The white bristles covering Begonia haageana are not decorative -- they are functional trichomes that help protect the plant from desiccation and pest damage, and also trap small water droplets in the humid Brazilian forest air.

Pet Safety

Toxic to pets

Toxic to cats and dogs (calcium oxalate crystals); roots and tubers are the most toxic part. Keep away from pets.

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