Begonia cucullata ‘Aurea’

Begonia cucullata ‘Aurea’ is a wax Begonia of quiet distinction. Where most wax Begonias fade into the background, ‘Aurea’ commands attention with its luminous golden-yellow to chartreuse foliage — a warm, sunlit tone that brightens any space it occupies. Compact and tidy in habit, it produces a continuous flush of small white to blush-pink flowers against the glowing leaf backdrop, blooming with remarkable generosity across the growing season.

Exceptionally easy to grow and highly adaptable — equally at home indoors on a bright windowsill or outdoors in a container or border. A reliable performer that delivers year-round color with minimal intervention.

Care Guide

• Light: Bright indirect to direct light. Unlike many Begonias, ‘Aurea’ tolerates and benefits from more sun — morning sun deepens the golden foliage color. Avoid only the most intense midday summer sun, which can scorch in hot climates.
• Water: Allow the top inch of soil to dry between waterings. Wax Begonias are more drought-tolerant than most — consistent moisture is preferred, but they recover well from occasional drying out. Avoid waterlogging.
• Soil: Well-draining, fertile potting mix. A standard houseplant mix amended with perlite is ideal. Good drainage is essential.
• Humidity: Adaptable to average household humidity (40–60%). No special humidity requirements — one of the more forgiving Begonias in this regard.
• Temperature: 60–85°F (15–29°C). Frost-sensitive; bring indoors before temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C). Thrives in warm conditions.
• Fertilizer: Balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength every two to three weeks during the growing season. A bloom-boosting formula (higher phosphorus) can extend and intensify flowering.
• Pruning: Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. Pinch back leggy stems to maintain a compact, bushy habit.
• Toxicity: Toxic to cats, dogs, and humans if ingested. Underground parts are the most toxic. Keep out of reach of pets and children.

What to Expect

Ships in a [pot size] nursery pot. Plant is [size descriptor / flowering status] at time of shipping. Each plant is inspected before dispatch and packed to minimize transit stress. Foliage color intensity may vary with light conditions.