Begonia masonia IRON CROSS BEGONIA
Best rare foliage for indoor gardeners seeking striking, shade-loving statement plants.
Discover the unique beauty of the Begonia masonia, also known as the Iron Cross Begonia. Native to southern China and tropical Asia, this plant features striking asymmetrical leaves with a pale green base and a distinctive maroon center. It thrives as a houseplant or can be used as a ground cover in warm, tropical, or temperate climates, particularly under established trees. Due to its rarity, supply is limited. This variety is best suited for USDA hardiness zones 10-11 when planted outdoors, or it can be enjoyed year-round as an indoor specimen. Its compact growth reaches about 45cm (18 inches) in height and prefers shady locations.
$7.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.4
/ 5
Category Rank
1656
/ 1828
#1656 in Seeds
Price vs Category Average
-57%
Below average
Height
4518
/ cm, "
Who it's for
- Collectors seeking visually striking, unique foliage for their displays
- Gardeners wanting versatile plants for indoor or shaded outdoor spaces
- Plant enthusiasts looking for a manageable, rewarding begonia variety
Who should skip it
- Growers without humidifiers or dedicated plant cabinets
- Busy owners unable to perform regular pest inspections
- Beginners struggling with precise, consistent watering schedules
Performance breakdown
Visual Impact
The striking maroon-centered foliage creates an immediate, high-contrast focal point.
Indoor Versatility
Thrives beautifully in containers, making it perfect for year-round indoor display.
Shade Tolerance
Excellent choice for brightening up those tricky, low-light corners of your home.
Growth Manageability
Compact eighteen-inch height keeps the plant tidy without needing constant pruning.
Cultivation Difficulty
Requires specific humidity and shade conditions, demanding attention from novice gardeners.
Exclusivity Factor
Limited supply makes this a rare find for serious plant collectors.
Key Specs
Height
45cm, 18"
Location
Shade
Seeds per packet
20
Hardiness zones (if planted outdoors)
10-11
Know before you buy
Yes, this variety thrives as a houseplant. It is well-suited for indoor environments provided it receives bright, indirect light and consistent humidity.
Iron Cross Begonia prefers shade. Whether you are growing it indoors or outdoors, avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves and fade its distinctive maroon center.
These begonias are only hardy outdoors in USDA zones 10-11. If you live in a cooler climate, you should treat them as container plants that can be moved indoors during colder months.
The Iron Cross Begonia is a compact plant, typically reaching a height of about 45cm (18 inches) at maturity.
Each packet contains 20 seeds, giving you a good quantity to start your collection or fill a small container.
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