Water
Water when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Ensure good drainage by using a well-draining potting mix. Reduce watering frequency during cooler months.
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Iron Cross Begonia (Begonia masoniana) features striking, textured leaves with a distinctive dark brown, cross-like pattern against a green background.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, indirect light
75% intensity
Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch leaves. Prefers filtered light or shade.
Keep moist but not soggy
50% intensity
Allow topsoil to dry slightly between waterings, ensure good drainage.
Well-draining, peat-based potting mix.
50% intensity
Average to warm
50% intensity
Ideal range is 18-24°C. Avoid cold drafts and temperatures below 15°C.
Indoor
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength during the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Contains calcium oxalates, which can cause oral irritation and gastrointestinal upset if ingested.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Ensure good drainage by using a well-draining potting mix. Reduce watering frequency during cooler months.
Prune to maintain shape and remove any dead or damaged leaves. Pinch back stems to encourage bushier growth. Sterilize pruning tools before use to prevent disease transmission.
Pruning can be done as needed throughout the year.
Propagate primarily through stem cuttings or rhizome division. Take 5-10 cm stem cuttings in spring or summer, dip ends in rooting hormone, and plant in moist potting mix. Rhizomes can be divided when repotting.
Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix suitable for begonias. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one. Repot in spring when new growth begins.
Identify plants like this with ePlant AI
Snap a photo to get care tips and match similar species on the go.
Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Iron Cross Begonia (Begonia masoniana)
Where Iron Cross Begonia (Begonia masoniana) is found
Density
Tap map to explore
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cucurbitales |
| Family | Begoniaceae |
| Genus | Begonia |
| Species | Begonia masoniana |
Similar in genus Begonia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
