Begonia corallina ‘de Lucerna’, also known as Coral Cane Begonia or Angel Wing Begonia ‘de Lucerna’, is a popular houseplant. This hybrid, created in 1892 by Wettstein of Lucerne, Switzerland, features olive-green, wing-shaped leaves with silver spots and a reddish underside. It also produces clusters of coral-pink to red flowers, adding to its visual appeal.
Caring for Begonia corallina ‘de Lucerna’
Light
Begonia corallina ‘de Lucerna’ thrives in bright, indirect light, mimicking its natural habitat. Place it near an east or west-facing window, or a few feet from a south-facing window. Avoid direct, harsh sunlight, which can scorch leaves. Insufficient light can cause vibrant leaf colors to fade and lead to leggy growth. Rotate the pot regularly for even light exposure and balanced growth.
Watering
Consistent moisture is important for Begonia corallina ‘de Lucerna’, but it is susceptible to overwatering and root rot. Allow the top 1-2 inches (2-3 cm) of soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Water thoroughly until liquid flows through the drainage holes, then discard excess water from the saucer. During colder months, reduce watering frequency as growth slows.
Soil
A well-draining, airy potting mix rich in organic matter provides the best growing environment. A suitable blend includes quality potting soil with perlite for enhanced drainage and aeration. Adding coco coir or peat moss helps retain moisture while maintaining a light texture. The ideal soil pH is slightly acidic, ranging between 5.5 and 7.0.
Temperature and Humidity
Begonia corallina ‘de Lucerna’ thrives in average indoor temperatures, ideally between 18°C and 26°C (64-79°F). Protect it from temperatures below 13°C (55°F) and sudden cold drafts, which can cause reduced growth and leaf drop. This begonia prefers high humidity, typically 60-70%. To increase humidity, use a pebble tray or cool mist humidifier. Avoid misting leaves directly, as it can encourage fungal issues.
Fertilization
During its active growing season (spring through early fall), Begonia corallina ‘de Lucerna’ benefits from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced, liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength, every 2-3 weeks or every other watering. When flower buds form, switch to a phosphorus-rich fertilizer for more prolific blooming. Avoid over-fertilization, which can damage leaves. Reduce or stop fertilization during the dormant period in late fall and winter.
Propagating Begonia corallina ‘de Lucerna’
Propagating Begonia corallina ‘de Lucerna’ is straightforward, most effectively done through stem cuttings. The best time is at the beginning of the growing season. Select a healthy, non-flowering stem 4-6 inches long with at least two leaves and a few leaf nodes. Make a clean cut just below a leaf node, then remove the lower leaves, leaving only the top one or two.
Cuttings can be rooted in either water or a moist potting mix. For water rooting, place the cutting in a jar, ensuring nodes are submerged but leaves stay above water. Change the water every 5-7 days.
For soil rooting, insert the cutting into a well-draining, moist rooting mix. Place the setup in a warm, well-lit location away from direct sunlight. Roots typically develop within 2-4 weeks; once 2-3 inches long, transfer new plantlets to individual pots.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Yellowing leaves often signal a watering imbalance. Overwatering leads to soggy soil and root rot, while inconsistent watering stresses the plant. Insufficient light can also contribute to yellowing foliage; move the plant to a brighter spot. Brown leaf edges or tips usually point to low humidity or soil drying out too much; increase ambient humidity with a pebble tray or humidifier.
A lack of blooms or stunted growth can be attributed to inadequate light or insufficient fertilization. Ensure the plant receives bright, indirect light for 8-10 hours daily and regular feeding during the growing season. Leggy growth, characterized by long, sparse stems, indicates insufficient light; rotate the plant regularly and provide ample indirect light for a more compact shape.
Pest infestations, such as spider mites, mealybugs, thrips, and aphids, can affect Begonia corallina ‘de Lucerna’. Isolate affected plants to prevent spread. Horticultural oil or insecticidal soap are effective treatments. Fungal diseases like powdery mildew can occur in damp conditions with poor air circulation. Improve airflow, avoid wetting foliage during watering, and maintain appropriate temperatures to prevent and manage these issues.