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Emm's Plant House

Begonia Lichenova

Begonia Lichenova

£22.00 GBP
£22.00 GBP
Sale Sold out
Taxes included.

Begonia lichenova is a rare, enchanting species admired for its intricate foliage that resembles delicate forest lichens. Its small, textured leaves display silvery patterns, deep green tones, and a soft velvety finish—making it a standout in terrariums and high-humidity collections. Compact, whimsical, and otherworldly, it’s a must-have for Begonia enthusiasts who appreciate unusual botanical beauty.

  • Full Botanical Name: Begonia lichenova
  • Common Names: Lichen Begonia, Lichenova Begonia
  • Country and/or Region of Origin: Southeast Asia (likely limestone forest regions)
  • Growing Conditions in Native Habitat: Grows on moist, shaded limestone cliffs and forest floors with high humidity, cool airflow, and consistently damp but airy substrate

Care Guide

  • Care Guide:
  • Light: Bright, indirect light or soft filtered shade. Avoid direct sun which can scorch its delicate foliage.
  • Ideal Room: Terrariums, plant cabinets, bathrooms, or warm plant rooms with stable humidity
  • Feeding: Feed lightly every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with a diluted foliage fertiliser.
  • Humidity: High humidity (70–90%) required; thrives in closed terrariums where moisture remains stable.
  • Ideal Temperature: 18–24°C; avoid cold drafts and temperatures below 15°C.
  • Watering: Keep soil evenly moist but never waterlogged. Allow the top 1 cm to dry slightly before watering again. Very sensitive to overwatering and root rot.
  • Pet/Child Safe: Toxic (genus level) — may cause irritation if ingested by pets or humans.
  • Soil Type: Light, airy Begonia mix containing fine bark, peat/coco coir, perlite, and a little sphagnum moss
  • Propagation: Leaf cuttings, rhizome division, or stem cuttings; roots best in high humidity environments
  • Eventual Height and Spread: 10–15 cm tall; spreads 15–20+ cm depending on conditions
  • Growth Rate: Slow to moderate; faster in terrariums with stable humidity and warmth
  • Pests and Treatment: Susceptible to fungus gnats, aphids, and mealybugs in overly wet soil; treat with gentle, Begonia-safe insecticides
  • Repotting: Every 1–2 years; prefers shallow pots and fresh, airy substrate
  • Pruning: Remove older or damaged leaves to maintain airflow and promote new growth
  • Air Purification: Mild; valued primarily for its unique foliage patterns and compact form
  • Folklore: Often admired as a “fairy forest” Begonia, symbolising mystery, curiosity, and the hidden beauty of shaded woodland places
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