The Eyelash Begonia (Begonia bowerae) is a houseplant known for its distinct foliage. This rhizomatous begonia features intricately patterned leaves, often green, bronze, or red with contrasting veins. Its common name comes from the tiny, hair-like cilia fringing the leaf edges, creating a delicate “eyelash” effect. Its unique appearance and compact growth make it a popular indoor plant.
Eyelash Begonia Care
Light
Eyelash Begonias need bright, indirect light, thriving near east or north-facing windows. Direct midday sun can scorch leaves, causing brown spots or faded color. Insufficient light leads to leggy growth and less vibrant leaf patterns.
Watering
Eyelash Begonias prefer consistently moist, not waterlogged, soil. Water when the top inch or two feels dry. Overwatering causes root rot, indicated by yellowing leaves and a soft stem base.
Humidity
High humidity mimics the Eyelash Begonia’s natural habitat, with ideal levels from 50% to 60% or higher. Increase moisture by placing the pot on a pebble tray (not directly in water), grouping plants, or using a room humidifier.
Potting Mix and Container
Choose a well-draining, airy potting mix for optimal root health, such as peat moss, perlite, and a small amount of compost or bark. Pots need drainage holes to prevent water accumulation and root problems. Repot only when root-bound, indicated by roots circling the pot or emerging from drainage holes.
Temperature
Eyelash Begonias thrive between 65°F and 75°F (18°C to 24°C). Temperatures below 55°F (13°C) stress and damage foliage. Protect from sudden temperature fluctuations and cold drafts.
Fertilizing
Fertilize Eyelash Begonias during the active growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer every two to four weeks. Dilute the fertilizer to half the strength recommended on the product label to prevent nutrient burn. Reduce or halt fertilization during cooler, dormant months.
Propagating Eyelash Begonias
Propagate Eyelash Begonias using leaf cuttings. Select a healthy, mature leaf free from disease or damage. Carefully detach the leaf, including a small portion of the petiole or stem, using a clean, sharp knife or scissors.
Lay the chosen leaf flat on a moist rooting medium, such as peat and perlite mix, with the underside facing down. Alternatively, cut the leaf into wedge-shaped sections, each with a major vein. Insert these sections shallowly into the rooting medium, ensuring the vein side contacts the substrate. Maintain high humidity around cuttings by covering the tray with a clear plastic dome or placing it in a plastic bag. New plantlets typically emerge from the leaf sections’ veins within several weeks.
Common Issues and Solutions
Limp or drooping leaves
Limp or drooping leaves often indicate watering issues. Both underwatering (excessive dryness) and overwatering (leading to root rot) can cause this. Check soil moisture before watering: if dry, water thoroughly; if waterlogged, let it dry out. Low humidity can also cause wilting; increase moisture in the plant’s environment.
Brown leaf edges or tips
Brown leaf edges or tips often result from insufficient humidity or inconsistent watering. Eyelash Begonia foliage reacts quickly to dry air, causing crisp, discolored edges. Maintain consistent soil moisture and elevate humidity with pebble trays or humidifiers. Using filtered or distilled water, rather than high-mineral tap water, can also prevent tip burn.
Pest infestations
Pest infestations can affect Eyelash Begonias. Common pests include spider mites (fine webbing, tiny dots on leaves) and mealybugs (cottony white masses). Isolate affected plants immediately to prevent spread. Apply a gentle insecticidal soap spray or neem oil solution to foliage, ensuring thorough coverage of both top and underside of leaves.