Begonia (Elephant ear begonia)

Beefsteak Begonia (Erythrophylla) Available Now! Transform your space with the timeless charm of Beefsteak Begonia, a long-living, easy-care houseplant. 

Known for its lush foliage and vibrant, tiny pink flowers, the Beefsteak Begonia, also referred to as Elephant Ear, is more than just a plant; it's a piece of living history in your home or office. Not only does it enhance the aesthetic of any room, but it also attracts butterflies and bees, adding a touch of nature's serenity to your space.

Ideal for bright, indirect sunlight locations, this Begonia thrives in a well-lit windowsill, away from direct sun exposure. It's a fast-grower, promising quick and rewarding results for plant enthusiasts of all levels. Plus, enjoy the added advantage of air purification, making it a perfect choice for creating a healthier, more inviting environment.

No need to fret over humidity; the Beefsteak Begonia stands out from its cousins by thriving in standard indoor humidity levels. Easy to maintain and grow, it’s the perfect addition to your plant collection.

Order now and take advantage of early week dispatch to avoid weekend courier delays. Browse our full range to discover more exceptional plants and enhance your indoor garden today. Experience the joy of plant ownership with this eye-catching, low-maintenance Begonia!

Begonia ... Indoor begonia plants are renowned for their extravagant foliage colour and intriguing shapes and patterns.

Begonia (Elephant Ear Begonia): A Stunning Addition to Your Home Garden

The Elephant Ear Begonia (scientifically known as Begonia species, often referred to as Begonia 'Elephant Ear') is a striking and unique variety of begonia, prized for its large, heart-shaped leaves that resemble the ears of an elephant. This plant’s bold and beautiful foliage makes it an exceptional decorative plant for both indoor and outdoor spaces. With its vibrant colors, distinct textures, and elegant form, the Elephant Ear Begonia can easily become the focal point of any garden, patio, or home decor.

Native to tropical and subtropical regions, Begonia Elephant Ear thrives in environments with warmth, humidity, and indirect light. While it can be grown outdoors in some regions, it is also an excellent indoor plant, adding a touch of exotic beauty to any space. It’s known for its easy-to-care-for nature and unique aesthetic, making it a popular choice for plant enthusiasts.

Key Features of the Begonia (Elephant Ear Begonia):

1. Large, Heart-Shaped Leaves: The most striking feature of the Elephant Ear Begonia is its large, glossy leaves. The heart-shaped leaves, which can grow up to several feet in length depending on the variety, have a dramatic look and are typically a deep green with veins that stand out. Some cultivars may also feature splashes of red, purple, or silver, adding additional color and texture to the foliage.
   
2. Vibrant, Colorful Foliage: In addition to its green leaves, the Elephant Ear Begonia can have a range of colors, depending on the variety. Some varieties produce leaves that are tinged with shades of red, purple, or even variegated patterns, providing a contrast that makes the plant stand out.
   
3. Unique Flowering: While the primary attraction of the Elephant Ear Begonia is its foliage, it can also bloom with small, delicate flowers. The flowers are typically white, pink, or red and are often less conspicuous than the leaves. However, when the plant does flower, it adds a subtle touch of color to complement its dramatic leaves.
   
4. Tropical Appearance: With its large leaves and lush growth habit, the Elephant Ear Begonia evokes a tropical or subtropical feel. It brings a vibrant and exotic touch to any space, making it perfect for indoor gardeners or those looking to create a tropical oasis in their home or garden.
   
5. Easy to Care For: While it requires specific growing conditions, the Elephant Ear Begonia is relatively low-maintenance compared to other houseplants. It thrives in well-drained soil, humidity, and consistent watering, but it’s not prone to pests or diseases when cared for properly.
   
6. Compact Size: While the Elephant Ear Begonia has large leaves, it typically grows in a compact form. It is well-suited for pots, containers, and smaller spaces, making it a perfect plant for both beginner gardeners and those with limited space.
   

Benefits of the Begonia (Elephant Ear Begonia):

1. Bold Decorative Foliage: The large, heart-shaped leaves make the Elephant Ear Begonia an eye-catching addition to any home or garden. Whether displayed as a statement piece in the living room or used to brighten up a patio or garden, its foliage adds a bold aesthetic that enhances the beauty of your space.
   
2. Easy to Grow Indoors: The Elephant Ear Begonia does well indoors, as long as it’s placed in a location with bright, indirect light. It can thrive in homes with moderate to high humidity, making it perfect for bathrooms or kitchens where moisture levels tend to be higher.
   
3. Adds Tropical Ambiance: If you’re looking to bring a touch of the tropics into your home, the Elephant Ear Begonia is an excellent choice. Its lush green foliage and tropical appearance can transform your space into a cozy, inviting retreat.
   
4. Suitable for Container Gardening: Because of its relatively compact size, the Elephant Ear Begonia does well in containers and pots, allowing you to grow it indoors or on a patio. It’s also perfect for creating a lush, tropical look in hanging baskets or large planters.
   
5. Improved Air Quality: Like other houseplants, the Elephant Ear Begonia can help improve air quality by filtering out toxins and producing oxygen. This is especially beneficial for indoor spaces with limited ventilation.
   
6. Ideal for Low-Maintenance Gardeners: While the Elephant Ear Begonia requires specific care regarding humidity and light, it’s generally easy to maintain and does not require frequent pruning or complex maintenance. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy beautiful, lush greenery without high upkeep.
   

How to Care for the Begonia (Elephant Ear Begonia):

1. Light: The Elephant Ear Begonia prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch its large leaves, so it’s best to place the plant in a location where it receives filtered light. It can also tolerate some low light, but this may result in slower growth.
   
2. Watering: Water the Elephant Ear Begonia regularly, but be careful not to overwater. The plant likes consistently moist soil, but it should never sit in water. Let the top inch of soil dry out before watering again. During the winter months, the plant requires less water as it enters a dormant period.
   
3. Humidity: The Elephant Ear Begonia thrives in high humidity. If you live in a dry climate or the air in your home is particularly dry, you may need to mist the plant occasionally or place it near a humidifier. Grouping plants together can also help increase humidity.
   
4. Temperature: This plant prefers temperatures between 60°F and 75°F (15°C to 24°C). It should be kept away from cold drafts and sudden temperature changes, which can stress the plant.
   
5. Soil: The Elephant Ear Begonia prefers well-draining, rich, and slightly acidic soil. A mix designed for houseplants or begonias works well, but you can also create your own mix by combining peat, perlite, and compost.
   
6. Fertilizing: Feed the Elephant Ear Begonia once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer. In the fall and winter, reduce fertilization, as the plant’s growth slows down.
   
7. Pruning: Prune any dead or yellowing leaves to keep the plant looking healthy and tidy. You can also remove any spent flowers to encourage new growth.