Begonia picta
Begonia picta
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Pl. 7157 — Begonia picta
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IOverview
Overview
Begonia picta, a perennial plant native to the eastern Himalayas and surrounding regions including Assam, Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, and Tibet, is known for its ornamental value as well as its edible leaves. This begonia thrives in partial sun or shade with moist conditions, adapting to various soil types from light sandy to heavy clay. Standing at a modest height of 0.2 meters, it features distinctive variegated foliage that adds visual interest to gardens and landscapes. Its edible parts include the leaves, making it a versatile addition for those interested in incorporating unique flavors into their culinary creations.
Quick answers
What is Begonia picta?
Begonia picta, a perennial plant native to the eastern Himalayas and surrounding regions including Assam, Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, and Tibet, is known for its ornamental value as well as its edible leaves.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Begonia picta thrives in partial sun to shade and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows as a perennial and reaches a height of 0.2 meters. For cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently moist but avoid overwatering. Propagate through division or stem cuttings. This plant is hardy in temperate regions and can be grown for its edible leaves.
Light
Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
0.2 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Begonia picta for the first time
8steps
Start with Begonia picta as a simple, low-maintenance plant for your garden or indoor space.
- 1
What you'll need
Begonia picta plants, well-draining potting mix, small pots or containers.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Begonia picta in spring when temperatures are mild and stable.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a light, well-draining soil mix. Ensure the container has drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant Begonia picta from small pots into larger ones as needed, keeping it in partial shade.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid direct sunlight.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide partial sun or shade and keep the soil consistently moist. Fertilize sparingly with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune Begonia picta to maintain shape and remove dead leaves, but avoid cutting into the main stem.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, placing in direct sunlight, using heavy soil that doesn't drain well.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The leaves of Begonia picta are edible and can be consumed raw or cooked. They are often used in salads for their mild flavor or added to soups and stews for additional nutrition.
Other uses:Mordant
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
7 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
7 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 7 native
Asia4 regions
native (4)BangladeshChinaIndiaMyanmar
Broader regions
native:East Himalaya, West Himalaya
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
XII
About this entry
- Last updated
- Citation
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 7157ab95-860a-4270-aa82-1f3da9cccf56
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