{"product_id":"maple-leaf-begonia-begonia-cleopatrae","title":"Begonia cleopatrae - Maple Leaf Begonia","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA stunning small Begonia prized for its maple-shaped leaves, \u003ci\u003eBegonia cleopatrae\u003c\/i\u003e is one of the most distinctive foliage begonias around. Each leaf features a rich tapestry of dark brown, deep green, and maroon tones with fine hairs along the surface, giving it a soft, velvety appearance. Native to Mexico, this species thrives in humid, warm conditions and is best suited to life as a terrarium plant or under glass indoors where humidity can be controlled.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eScientific Name\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003ci\u003eBegonia cleopatrae\u003c\/i\u003e (named for its beauty reminiscent of Cleopatra’s regal elegance). \u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eDescribed in 1937 by botanist Lyman Bradford Smith. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon Name\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eMaple Leaf Begonia\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eNative to the Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico, where it grows in the understory of tropical forests.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eLight\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003ePrefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sun, which can scorch the delicate leaves. Ideal near a bright north or east-facing window or under grow lights in darker homes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWater\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eKeep the soil lightly moist, allowing the top layer to dry slightly between waterings. In winter, reduce watering but do not let the plant dry out completely. Always water with room-temperature water and avoid getting water on the leaves to prevent spotting and rot.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eHumidity\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eRequires high humidity to thrive (60–80%). Best kept in a terrarium, glass cloche, or near a humidifier. Alternatively, place the pot on a pebble tray filled with water to create a humid microclimate. Avoid draughts and dry air from radiators.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eSoil\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eUse a loose, well-draining mix rich in organic matter. A blend of houseplant compost, perlite, and fine orchid bark works well. Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eFood\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eFeed lightly every 4–6 weeks in spring and summer with a diluted balanced fertiliser. Pause feeding during autumn and winter when growth slows.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eTemperature\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003ePrefers 18–26°C. Avoid cold draughts and never expose to temperatures below 15°C.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cb\u003ePet-safe\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eToxic if ingested; keep away from pets and children.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eSprouts Top Tips\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eThis Begonia loves stability – avoid moving it frequently, as sudden changes in light or humidity can cause leaf drop. If it’s thriving, leave it be!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eExtras\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eBest grown under glass or in a closed terrarium setup where humidity can remain consistently high. Its compact, clumping form makes it an ideal choice for miniature plant displays.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eDid You Know?\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eThe leaf shape of \u003ci\u003eBegonia cleopatrae\u003c\/i\u003e resembles a maple leaf so closely that it’s often mistaken for one – earning it its charming common name.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sprouts of Bristol","offers":[{"title":"6cm","offer_id":43515015987453,"sku":"CF2168","price":8.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"12cm","offer_id":43515015758077,"sku":"CF2169","price":14.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0490\/2774\/3905\/products\/maple-leaf-begonia-begonia-cleopatrae-645347.jpg?v=1666973419","url":"https:\/\/sproutsofbristol.live\/products\/maple-leaf-begonia-begonia-cleopatrae","provider":"Sprouts of Bristol","version":"1.0","type":"link"}