The Polka Dot Begonia (Begonia Maculata)

I received a shipment of Polka Dot Plants (Begonia Maculata) which had dropped all their leaves due to the drastic change in temperature; from hot greenhouse to cold air conditioned store. Even though the plant was 'naked' (as you can see above) I decided to buy one and nurse it back to life. I've had it for a few weeks and it is now slowly beginning to strengthen. The small dotted leaf on the bottom of the photo is new growth.

I keep my Polka Dot Begonia in a room with lots of indirect sunlight. When I turn the AC on, I usually move the plant to a room that is warmer. I know this isn't feasible for everybody but do your best to keep the temperature steady.

I will update this post as I care for the plant and provide more information and pictures of its progress. 

Begonia Maculata

• True Name: Begonia Maculata
• Light: Bright, indirect light will promote strong growth and blooms. *Avoid direct sunlight.
• Water: Keep the soil generally moist, letting the top half inch of soil dry out between watering.
• Soil: A light houseplant potting mix is ideal. Add perlite if drainage is insufficient.
• Temperature: 65°F (18°C) to 86°F (30°C).
• Fertilizer: Balanced, water-soluble applied every 2-4 weeks when the plant is actively growing.
• Humidity: High
• Flowering: Bloom from spring to fall, produces clusters of white flowers with yellow centers.
• Pruning: Prune back at least twice per year to maintain compact growth.
• Propagation: Stem cuttings are easily propagated in soil or water.
• Re-Potting: Annual repotting in spring.
• Diseases and Pests: High humidity and overwatering can cause powdery mildew, botrytis, bacterial leaf spot, stem and root rot. Whitefly and mealybugs are sometimes a problem, but easily dealt with.
• Toxicity: Toxic to pets and people if ingested.
• Also Called: Polka Dot Plant, Spotted Begonia, Trout Begonia, Wightii, or Clown Begonia

The Begonia Maculata likes moist soil – never let it get too dry – however they benefit from having the top half-inch of their soil dry out before watering again. They easily develop root rot if kept too wet, so be mindful of overwatering and don't water if the soil is moist. When watering try not to get the leaves wet. Water directly onto the soil. I make it a habit of watering my plants on Wednesdays and Sundays. If the soil is still moist I wait until the next watering day.

The Begonia Maculata is considered toxic to dogs, cats and horses by the ASPCA. The toxins are primarily in the roots, though its stems and leaves can cause oral irritation.