Begonia 'Fairy Tale'

🌿 Begonia 'Fairy Tale' is a cultivated hybrid from the Begoniaceae family, bred for its captivating foliage and compact growth habit. Begonias originally hail from tropical and subtropical regions across Asia, Africa, and Central and South America, where they thrive in shaded forest floors with consistent moisture. This particular variety is suitable for intermediate growers who appreciate plants with specific care needs but manageable routines. Here's something interesting: begonias have been cultivated for over 200 years, and there are now more than 2,000 species and countless hybrids, making them one of the most diverse plant families in horticulture.
FOLIAGE AND GROWTH HABIT
This begonia grows in a compact, mounding habit that stays relatively low and bushy rather than tall or sprawling. The leaves are asymmetrical and heart-shaped, with one side noticeably larger than the other—a signature trait of begonias. The foliage displays rich green tones with silver or metallic markings that catch light beautifully, creating a shimmering effect. The texture is smooth with a slightly succulent feel, and the leaves have a delicate, almost porcelain-like quality that makes them look almost unreal.
FLOWER DETAILS
Begonia 'Fairy Tale' produces small, delicate flowers in soft pink or white shades that emerge on slender stems above the foliage. The blooms have a simple, open shape with four to five petals and a subtle, almost imperceptible fragrance. While the flowers add charm, the real showstopper is the foliage. This begonia can bloom sporadically throughout the growing season, especially during warmer months. To encourage more frequent flowering, maintain consistent bright indirect light, keep the soil lightly moist, and feed with a balanced fertilizer every three to four weeks during spring and summer.
CARE INSTRUCTIONS
🌞 Light: Bright indirect light works best, though it tolerates partial shade. Avoid direct sun, which scorches the leaves. Aim for 6-8 hours of filtered light daily, especially near east or north-facing windows.
💧 Water: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. In spring and summer, this usually means once or twice a week. In autumn and winter, reduce to once every 10 days. Bottom watering works well to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to mildew.
🌡️ Humidity: Prefers 50-60% humidity. Average home humidity often works, but during dry winter months, consider a humidity tray or nearby humidifier.
🪴 Soil: Use a light, well-draining mix with peat, perlite, and a bit of orchid bark. Good drainage is critical to prevent root rot.
🏺 Potting: Choose a shallow pot with drainage holes, as begonias have shallow root systems. Terracotta or ceramic pots work well. Repot every 12-18 months in spring when roots fill the container.
🌱 Growth rate: Moderate growth. Expect noticeable new leaves every few weeks during the growing season. Over six months, it will fill out nicely. In a year, it reaches near-mature size, typically 20-25 cm tall and wide.
👩‍🌾 Fertilizing: Feed every 3-4 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Stop or reduce to once every 6-8 weeks in autumn and winter.
🐾 Pet friendly: No. Begonias contain oxalates, which are toxic to cats and dogs. Ingestion can cause oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. Keep out of reach of curious pets.
WHERE TO PUT IT
This begonia thrives in living rooms, bedrooms, or home offices where bright filtered light is available without harsh afternoon sun. It works beautifully on a side table, bookshelf, or plant stand where its foliage can be admired up close. Bathrooms with good natural light also work well due to the extra humidity. Avoid placing it near heating vents, air conditioners, or drafty windows, as sudden temperature changes stress the plant. Keep it away from dark corners or rooms with minimal light, where it will struggle and lose its vibrant leaf markings.
RARITY ASSESSMENT
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