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Cultivar

B. ‘Erythrophylla’

Photos

5 photos

Identity

Genus
Begonia
Name
B. ‘Erythrophylla’
Originator
Warscewics
Date of Origin
1845
Publication Date
1849
Plant Type
Rhizomatous
Synonyms and Comments
B. ‘Feastii’; Known as the “Beefsteak” begonia.
Publication Reference
B97 d097; BL00 02d09; YBG;
Article References
Beg. 2:5. Dec. 1935; The Begonian (46) May 1979, p. 110-112;
Photo References
Murotani, Begonia in Colour :92. 1983; The Begonian, May 1962; Exotica - Pictorial Encyclopedia of Indoor plants; Begonias, Misono 1974: 48 (61);

Plant

Description
SOME OLDER FAVORITES by Bob Hamm, Wichita Falls, Texas B. 'Erythrophylla', this old (from 1847) rhizomatous plant, is also known as the "Beefsteak Begonia" due to the bright red undersides of the leaves. A very common begonia, it is nevertheless a good choice for beginners and even for advanced growers as it can be a beautiful plant. It is a strong grower, and stands more abuse than many of the newer hybrids. A winter bloomer, its pink blooms are a nice touch above its rounded leaves, green above and red below. This plant can tolerate fairly low humidity, and wide variance in light and watering. It should be al­lowed to dry between watering to prevent rotting the rhizome and a rapid draining soil is preferred. I've seen this grown everywhere from an office filing cabinet under the ceiling light with no sun at all, to the sunny end of a greenhouse, and everything in between.

Lineage

6 descendants

Parents

B. ‘Feastii’; Known as the “Beefsteak” begonia.

Descendants

Culture

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