Begonia melanobullata (Dinosaur Begonia)

The Dinosaur Begonia, scientifically known as Begonia melanobullata, is a rare rhizomatous species from the family Begoniaceae. Native to the limestone cliffs of southern China, this peculiar plant thrives in shaded, humid rock crevices where it clings to moss-covered surfaces. This is an intermediate-level plant that rewards careful attention with its prehistoric charm. Fun fact: its common name comes from the textured, bumpy leaves that resemble dinosaur skin, making it a favourite among collectors who appreciate oddball foliage.
FOLIAGE AND GROWTH HABIT
This compact begonia grows in a slow, creeping manner along surfaces, sending out rhizomes that spread gradually rather than growing tall. The leaves are small, rounded to kidney-shaped, and covered in raised, warty bumps that give them a rough, almost reptilian texture. They range from deep olive green to bronze-green, often with darker veining that adds to their ancient, weathered appearance. The surface feels bumpy and slightly leathery to the touch.
FLOWER DETAILS
The Dinosaur Begonia produces delicate pale pink to white flowers on thin stems that rise above the foliage. The blooms are small and unscented, with a simple, asymmetrical shape typical of begonias. While not the main attraction, they add a soft contrast to the rugged leaves and appear sporadically throughout the growing season. To encourage flowering, maintain consistent humidity and provide bright indirect light without letting the plant dry out completely. The flowers have a gentle, understated beauty that complements rather than competes with the unique foliage.
CARE INSTRUCTIONS
🌞 Light: Bright indirect light or dappled shade. Avoid direct sun, which can scorch leaves. Needs about 6-8 hours of filtered light daily.
💧 Water: Keep soil lightly moist but never soggy. Water when the top layer feels dry, typically every 4-7 days in summer, less in winter. Bottom watering works well to avoid wetting the textured leaves.
🌡️ Humidity: Prefers 60-80% humidity. Thrives in terrariums or near humidifiers.
🪴 Soil: Light, chunky mix with excellent drainage. Orchid bark, perlite, and peat or coco coir work well.
🏺 Potting: Shallow, wide containers with drainage holes. Terracotta or glazed ceramic. Repot every 1-2 years when rhizomes outgrow the pot.
🌱 Growth rate: Slow grower. Expect a few centimetres of spread over 6 months. After a year, may double in width. Stays compact, rarely exceeding 15-20 cm across.
👩‍🌾 Fertilizing: Monthly during spring and summer with diluted liquid fertilizer (quarter strength). No feeding in fall and winter.
🐾 Pet friendly: No. Contains calcium oxalate crystals that can cause mouth irritation, drooling, and digestive upset in cats and dogs if ingested.
WHERE TO PUT IT
The Dinosaur Begonia does best in a bathroom with a window, a kitchen with decent light, or displayed in a terrarium where humidity stays high. It's perfect for a shelf or plant stand where you can admire the textured foliage up close. Avoid placing it in dry rooms with heating vents, sunny windowsills, or areas with cold drafts, as these conditions will cause leaf drop and stress.