Upcoming : Halloween Terrarium Workshop Tuesday Oct. 13 @ 6 pm / Garden Stone Painting Night Tuesday Oct. 20 @ 6 pm / Dried Floral Book Workshop Thursday Oct 29 @ 6 pm / Moss Art Sunday Nov. 1 @ 2 pm
Begonia Phoe's Cleo is a colorful tropical houseplant prized for its bright chartreuse-green leaves decorated with dramatic copper-red and mahogany markings. Its unusual, star-shaped foliage features deeply divided lobes and rich contrasting colors that give the plant an almost painted appearance. Dark reddish stems add another layer of interest, making this Begonia a beautiful choice for shelves, windowsills, decorative planters, and specialty plant collections.
The proper horticultural name is Begonia ‘Phoe's Cleo’, a cultivated rhizomatous Begonia hybrid. Unlike many Rex Begonias, this variety is known for its relatively vigorous growth and adaptability to typical indoor conditions. Its combination of lime-green foliage and reddish-brown markings makes it especially distinctive. Mature plants may also produce delicate clusters of light pink flowers, often during the cooler months.
Begonia Phoe's Cleo does best in bright, indirect light. Good filtered light helps maintain its vibrant chartreuse coloring and rich mahogany markings. It can tolerate medium light and partial shade, although growth may slow in darker conditions. Avoid prolonged harsh direct sunlight, which can scorch the foliage.
Water when the top inch of soil begins to feel dry, then water thoroughly and allow excess water to drain. This Begonia appreciates consistent moisture during active growth but should never remain soggy or waterlogged. Allowing the upper portion of the potting mix to dry slightly between waterings helps protect its roots and rhizomes from rot.
Use a light, rich, and well-draining potting mix in a container with drainage. A combination of quality houseplant soil or coco coir, perlite or pumice, and fine orchid bark works well. The roots appreciate a balance of moisture retention and good airflow.
Begonia Phoe's Cleo prefers warm temperatures and moderate to high humidity. It generally adapts well to average household conditions, although additional humidity can encourage healthy foliage. Good airflow is important, particularly in humid environments. Avoid cold drafts, sudden temperature changes, and allowing water to remain on the leaves for extended periods.
This plant develops a bushy, clumping to mounding growth habit, with its decorative leaves emerging from thick, creeping rhizomes. Mature plants commonly reach approximately 12 to 18 inches tall and can spread wider as they establish. Its relatively vigorous growth makes it a good choice for containers and indoor displays.
Under favorable conditions, Begonia Phoe's Cleo may produce clusters of delicate light pink flowers that rise above the colorful foliage, particularly during winter or early spring. Remove damaged or aging leaves as needed to maintain a tidy appearance. Established plants can also be propagated through rhizome division or leaf cuttings.
Begonia Phoe's Cleo is toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. Begonias contain soluble calcium oxalates, with higher concentrations generally found in their underground portions. Ingestion can cause irritation of the mouth and digestive tract, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. Keep it out of reach of pets and small children.
Upcoming : Halloween Terrarium Workshop Tuesday Oct. 13 @ 6 pm / Garden Stone Painting Night Tuesday Oct. 20 @ 6 pm / Dried Floral Book Workshop Thursday Oct 29 @ 6 pm / Moss Art Sunday Nov. 1 @ 2 pm
