Begonia ‘Soli-Mutata’

Begonia ‘Soli-Mutata’ forms neat mounds of large, heart-shaped leaves. The olive-green foliage is prettily patterned with contrasting lime green veins and finished off with scarlet edges. The upper leaf surfaces have an invitingly tactile, ‘goose-bumps’ appearance. Sprays of white flowers held well above the leaves are produced intermittently. RHS Award of Garden Merit. Height and spread: 20-30cm (8-12in).

Begonias are back! Once a feature of the Victorian parlour, designers have rediscovered these foliage beauties which are fast becoming modern style icons. Featuring elegantly shaped foliage in a myriad of colours and patterns, they make beautiful, shade tolerant houseplants. They look fabulous with any style of decor and are surprisingly easy to grow. In summer, they can be grown outside as patio feature plants. 

Begonia ‘Soli-Mutata’ forms neat mounds of large, heart-shaped leaves.

Place your Begonia in a bright spot that is not in direct sunlight – an east or west-facing windowsill is ideal. Water regularly but avoid overwatering or letting the plant sit in water. Aim the water directly onto the compost, avoiding splashing the leaves as much as possible. Feed fortnightly between May and September with a plant food that is high in potassium (for cane-types where abundant flowering is most important) or high in nitrogen (for rex-type or foliage varieties). Reduce watering in winter, allowing the surface of the compost to begin to dry out before watering again. In winter keep your begonias above a minimum temperature of 13°C. Plants can be brought outside in summer once night temperature reliably exceeds this.