Begonia Raindance

Begonia maculata 'Raindance' is a selected cultivar of the beloved Polka Dot Begonia, distinguished by exceptionally dense, uniform silver spotting across its large, asymmetrical angel-wing leaves. The upper surface is a deep olive-green, each leaf blanketed in bright silver-white dots that appear almost lacquered in their precision. The undersides are a rich burgundy-red, flashing into view as the leaves shift in the light. Cascading clusters of delicate white to blush flowers appear throughout the growing season — an unexpected softness against the bold, graphic foliage.

A cane-type Begonia of genuine presence. 'Raindance' tends toward a well-branched, tidy habit compared to the straight species, making it well-suited to indoor display without constant intervention. Fast-growing and responsive — new leaves unfurl quickly, each one a fresh iteration of the same striking pattern.

Care Guide

• Light: Bright indirect light. Gentle morning sun encourages vigorous growth, prolific flowering, and intensifies the silver spotting. Avoid harsh afternoon direct sun, which bleaches and scorches the foliage.
• Water: Allow the top inch of soil to dry between waterings. Cane Begonias tolerate brief drying better than most — consistent but not excessive moisture is the goal. Avoid waterlogging, which leads to root rot. Reduce in winter.
• Soil: Well-draining, airy potting mix. A peat or coco coir base amended with perlite works well. Avoid heavy, moisture-retentive soils.
• Humidity: 40–60%. More adaptable to average household conditions than many collector Begonias. Do not mist foliage directly — this causes spotting and invites fungal issues.
• Temperature: 65–85°F (18–29°C). Protect from cold drafts and temperatures below 55°F (13°C). Not frost-tolerant.
• Fertilizer: Balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength every two to three weeks during the growing season (spring–summer). A bloom-boosting formula (higher phosphorus) encourages more prolific flowering. Withhold in winter.
• Pruning: Pinch or cut back leggy canes to encourage branching and a fuller habit. Cuttings root readily in water or moist soil.
• Repotting: Fast-growing; repot in spring when roots fill the container, moving up one pot size. Prefers a slightly snug fit over an oversized pot.
• 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 4" nursery pot with a single-cane specimen at time of shipping. Each plant is inspected before dispatch and packed to minimize transit stress. Spot density and leaf size will vary by specimen and growing conditions.