Begonia sp. ‘Martin’s Mystery’ (U192)

This gorgeous creeping rhizomatous Begonia species is purported to have been introduced to cultivation from Southeast Asia by Martin Johnson.  It has leaves that are iridescent metallic pink and silver above and dark red below.  The major veins are dark green providing a vivid contrast with the rest of the leaf.  Flowers are white to pinkish. 

This is a fairly easy Begonia to grow and is an outstanding basket plant or windowsill plant where it can cascade over the edge of its container.  It also can provide great color contrast for a larger terrarium. Under lower light the leaves are more silver and develop more pink hues under brighter light.  Good drainage is important. (Pot size: 1 gallon)