TIME TO CELEBRATE THE BEGONIA

TIME TO CELEBRATE THE BEGONIA

The Begonia Collection You Didn’t Know You Needed: Escargot, Cleopatrae & Bullatifolia

If you’ve been drawn into the swirling world of rare and unusual houseplants, it’s time to take a closer look at Begonias. With their dazzling leaf patterns, otherworldly textures, and surprisingly bold personalities, these tropical gems are far from your average foliage. And at Emm’s Plant House, we’re all about celebrating the show-stoppers.

Today, we’re spotlighting three extraordinary Begonias that deserve a place in your collection – whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting out.

🌀 Begonia Escargot – The Spiralling Star

There’s no mistaking a Begonia Escargot. With its perfectly coiled spiral pattern and rich shades of silver, olive green, and bronze, this plant earns its name from its snail shell-like leaf formation. The dramatic foliage isn’t just a conversation piece – it’s a living sculpture.

Why we love it:

  • Stunning spiral pattern that draws the eye

  • Compact, lush growth – perfect for display shelves

  • A classic Rex Begonia with a timeless look

Care tip: Escargot likes bright, indirect light, high humidity, and consistently moist but not soggy soil. A shallow decorative pot with drainage is ideal for showcasing those swirls.

👑 Begonia cleopatrae – Jungle Royalty in Leaf Form

Native to the Philippines, Begonia cleopatrae is a botanical wonder. Its jagged, maple-shaped leaves are brushed with deep greens and highlighted with copper and red undersides. It thrives in high humidity and lower light levels – making it a favourite for terrarium growers and collectors alike.

What makes it special:

  • Unique starburst leaf shape

  • Velvet-like texture and rich, dark tones

  • Rarely seen in UK shops – perfect for collectors

Care tip: Keep humidity above 60% and allow the top inch of soil to dry out slightly between waterings. It does beautifully in a closed terrarium or under a humidity dome.

🌱 Begonia bullatifolia – Texture Lovers, Rejoice!

This one’s for the texture enthusiasts. Begonia bullatifolia, with its bubbly, blistered leaves, looks like something out of a fantasy forest. Each leaf is a soft green dome with a puckered surface and crisp red edging, giving it a prehistoric, almost alien vibe.

Why it's a must-have:

  • Incredibly rare in the UK

  • Striking leaf texture unlike any other Begonia

  • Compact and slow-growing – ideal for small spaces

Care tip: Likes a warm, humid environment and filtered light. Avoid letting water sit on its leaves – bottom watering works best to keep those puckered textures pristine.

💡 Why Add These to Your Collection?

These begonias aren’t just about aesthetics – they’re about curiosity, texture, and creating a home full of life and intrigue. Whether planted individually or arranged in a lush indoor jungle, Escargot, cleopatrae, and bullatifolia each bring their own distinct character and form. They’re proof that not all foliage has to be green and glossy to steal the spotlight.

🌿 Ready to Grow Your Collection?

At Emm’s Plant House, we specialise in rare and exceptional houseplants you won’t find at your average garden centre. Explore our current Begonia range online, and keep your eyes on our Instagram and TikTok for restocks, plant tips, and behind-the-scenes peeks at our growing collection.

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