Include these beautiful big-leaf begonia varieties in your indoor plant collection and make a bold statement effortlessly.
Despite the commonality of having a large leaf size, each of these cultivars has a unique feature that sets them apart. So, if you want leaves of your begonia variety to thrive, give them the care mentioned below.
Beautiful Big Leaf Begonia Varieties
1. Palm Leaf Begonia
Botanical Name: Begonia luxurians
This tropical beauty has large, palm-like leaves that can grow up to 1.5 feet long. Considered among the top long-leaf varieties with slender leaflets, Palm Leaf Begonia closely resembles a palm tree, hence the name.
Its love for humidity makes this variety a perfect candidate for tropical décor with a location like a kitchen or bathroom. Palm leaf Begonia won’t mind short dry spells, but for perfect health, keep the soil lightly moist and water at least once or twice a week.
2. Begonia Gryphon
Botanical Name: Begonia x hybrida ‘Gryphon’.
Gryphon has upright growth and produces large, palmate leaves streaked in silver, which sets it apart when grown indoors. The leaves are also large, reaching up to one foot long.
Interestingly, this begonia variety is named after the mythical animal that is said to be half eagle and half lion.
To maintain its lush foliage, prune in early to late spring as new growth appears and remove dead leaves.
3. Begonia ‘Metallic Mist’
Botanical Name: B. pedatifida x B. taliense
This variety has heavily silvered, maple-like leaves, which make it one of the most attractive additions to gardens and indoors. It grows vigorously up to two feet and also offers pink flowers in late summer.
The broad leaves can reach up to one foot, which is perfect for making a bold statement indoors, especially when elevated on plant stands.
If you want its shiny leaves to thrive, give it humus-rich, well-drained soil. Avoid overwatering, but keep the soil moist.
4. Begonia Marmaduke
Botanical Name: Begonia ‘Marmaduke’
The maple-shaped neon-yellow leaves of this variety are adorned with chocolate-colored speckles, which give the appearance of spilled chocolate syrup.
For the best growth, you should provide organic, well-draining soil and grow it in shade. It also grows well in highly humid conditions; read how to increase humidity here.
5. Begonia Cowardly Lion
Botanical Name: Begonia ‘Cowardly Lion’
This European hybrid features slightly curled leaves with chocolate-brown veins on a greenish-yellow background. Under optimal conditions, its leaves can grow up to a foot long.
It grows best under bright light, and a lack of it can lead to leaf drop. Place it a few feet from a south-facing window to ensure that it gets enough light without scorching the leaves.
6. Begonia Little Brother Montgomery
Botanical Name: Begonia rex-cultorum ‘Little Brother Montgomery’
Despite its name, this variety surprises with large leaves streaked in metallic silver with dark green edges. The rich maroon undersides make the overall look more striking.
You should find a spot for this that ensures bright indirect light to maintain the vivid colors of its foliage. Plus, keep the soil moist without waterlogging it.
7. Begonia Escargot
Botanical Name: Begonia rex ‘Escargot’
You won’t find any begonia variety with such unique leaf features. The spiral-patterned leaves of this cultivar resemble a snail shell, which will surely turn the heads of those who visit your home. You can have leaves that thrive and reach just under a foot across with good care.
Another unique feature of this plant is its mix of green and silvery-gray shades in its leaves, which makes it a favorite among indoor gardeners.
It grows well in well-draining soil and can thrive even in partial shade.
8. Begonia ‘Paul Hernandez’
Botanical Name: Begonia x ricinifolia ‘Paul Hernandez’
This vigorous grower boasts massive, leathery leaves that can grow up to 2 feet long. The deeply veined, dark green leaves give it a tropical look.
When choosing a potting mix for this plant, remember that it needs well-draining and slightly acidic soil for the best results.
9. Begonia Red Fred
Botanical Name: Begonia ‘Red Fred’
You cannot miss this large-leaf rhizomatous begonia with rounded heart-shaped leaves. The leaves look massive, around one foot in width, and the glossy maroon venation with a red underside makes it a unique cultivar.
Plant it in bright shade in well-draining soil. You can also give it some morning sun, but avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. The beautiful leaves of Red Fred are perfect for containers that give a bold look indoors.
