Upcoming Events: Tissue Culture Workshop August 29 @ 11 am / Macramé Air Plant Holder Class Sunday Sept. 13th @ 3 pm / Moss Art Thursday Sept. 24th @ 6pm / Moss Art Thursday Oct. 1st @ 6 pm
Begonia Cowardly Lion is a dramatic foliage Begonia known for its bold, heavily textured leaves and warm coloring that can include shades of bronze, copper, olive green, burgundy, and reddish brown. The deeply textured surface and darker markings give the foliage an almost sculpted appearance, while new leaves may emerge with brighter bronze or reddish tones before deepening as they mature. Its unusual texture and rich coloration make it an excellent statement plant for shelves, plant cabinets, terrariums, and specialty Begonia collections.
The plant is commonly sold as Begonia ‘Cowardly Lion’. It is a cultivated ornamental Begonia grown primarily for its distinctive foliage. Like many specialty Begonia cultivars, leaf color and intensity can vary depending on maturity, light levels, temperature, humidity, and growing conditions.
Begonia Cowardly Lion does best in bright, indirect light. Good filtered light encourages compact growth and helps bring out the bronze, copper, and burgundy tones in the foliage. Avoid prolonged harsh direct sunlight, which can scorch or fade the leaves.
Water when the top inch of soil begins to feel dry, then water thoroughly and allow excess water to drain. This Begonia prefers consistent moisture during active growth but should never remain soggy or waterlogged. Avoid allowing the potting mix to remain completely dry for extended periods.
Use a light, airy and well-draining potting mix in a container with drainage. A mixture containing quality houseplant soil or coco coir, perlite or pumice, and fine orchid bark works well. The roots benefit from a mix that retains some moisture while still providing plenty of airflow.
Begonia Cowardly Lion prefers warm temperatures and moderate to high humidity. Additional humidity can help maintain healthy foliage and reduce crispy leaf edges, but good airflow is important, particularly in plant cabinets or terrariums. Avoid leaving water sitting on the leaves for extended periods.
This plant develops a compact, bushy to spreading growth habit and is grown primarily for its highly decorative foliage. Older or damaged leaves can be removed at the base to keep the plant looking its best. Its coloration may shift as individual leaves mature or growing conditions change.
Begonia Cowardly Lion is toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. Begonias contain soluble calcium oxalates that can cause irritation of the mouth and digestive tract, with the highest concentrations generally found in the underground portions of the plant. Keep it away from pets and small children.
Upcoming Events: Tissue Culture Workshop August 29 @ 11 am / Macramé Air Plant Holder Class Sunday Sept. 13th @ 3 pm / Moss Art Thursday Sept. 24th @ 6pm / Moss Art Thursday Oct. 1st @ 6 pm
