Begonia Silver Dollar

🌿 The Silver Dollar Begonia, scientifically known as Begonia venosa, is a stunning rhizomatous species from the family Begoniaceae. Native to the highland forests of Brazil, this begonia thrives in the dappled light of its natural understory habitat, where it develops its characteristic rounded, silver-spotted leaves. It's considered an intermediate-level plant, requiring some attention to humidity and watering but rewarding growers with unique foliage and seasonal blooms. Here's a fun fact: the name "venosa" refers to the prominent veining that creates an intricate network across each leaf, making every one a tiny work of natural art.
FOLIAGE AND GROWTH HABIT
This begonia grows in a compact, bushy habit with a creeping rhizome that spreads horizontally along the soil surface. The leaves are nearly circular, resembling silver coins, which is how the plant earned its common name. They're medium green with silvery white spots scattered across the surface, creating a speckled effect that catches the light beautifully. The texture is slightly succulent and smooth to the touch, with a subtle sheen that makes the foliage appear almost metallic in certain angles.
FLOWER DETAILS
The Silver Dollar Begonia produces delicate white to pale pink flowers that emerge on tall stems above the foliage. The blooms are small but charming, with four asymmetrical petals that give them a whimsical appearance. They carry a light, sweet fragrance that's most noticeable in the morning hours. While not the showiest of begonias, the flowers add an elegant touch to the already attractive plant. Flowering typically occurs in late winter through spring when light conditions improve. To encourage blooming, maintain consistent care routines, ensure adequate light without direct sun, and allow the plant a slight rest period in autumn with reduced watering.
CARE INSTRUCTIONS

🌞 Light: Bright indirect light works best, though it tolerates lower light conditions. Aim for 4-6 hours of filtered sunlight daily. Avoid direct sun, which can scorch the leaves.
💧 Water: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, roughly once a week in summer and every 10-14 days in winter. Water at the soil level to keep leaves dry and prevent rot. Use room-temperature water and ensure good drainage.
🌡️ Humidity: Prefers 50-60% humidity, which is slightly above average home levels. Benefits from a pebble tray or grouping with other plants.
🪴 Soil: Light, well-draining mix with peat, perlite, and bark. Slightly acidic pH is ideal. Good aeration around the rhizome is essential.
🏺 Potting: Shallow, wide terracotta or ceramic pots work well since rhizomes spread horizontally. Repot every 2-3 years in spring, or when rhizomes fill the pot.
🌱 Growth rate: Moderate growth, spreading 2-3 inches in six months under good conditions. After a year, expect a 6-8 inch spread. Mature plants reach 8-12 inches tall and 12-15 inches wide.
👩‍🌾 Fertilizing: Feed monthly during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Skip fertilizing in autumn and winter when growth slows.
🐾 Pet friendly: No, this plant is toxic to cats and dogs. Contains oxalates that cause oral irritation, drooling, and digestive upset if ingested.

WHERE TO PUT IT
The Silver Dollar Begonia thrives in spaces with bright, filtered light and stable temperatures. It's perfect for east or north-facing windowsills, bathroom counters with natural light, or shelves near windows in living rooms and bedrooms. The compact size makes it ideal for smaller spaces like apartments or offices. Avoid placing it in drafty areas, near heating vents, or in rooms with temperature fluctuations. Keep it away from direct sun exposure through south or west windows, as this will damage the leaves. Since it prefers higher humidity, kitchens and bathrooms often provide better conditions than drier rooms.