hi there,

this is a rhizomatous begonia cultivar, B. 'Erythrophylla.' This is an easy-going plant that can easily be started from leaf or from rhizome cuttings. I prefer the latter here. Snip off a couple inches of healthy rhizome, making note of which side is up. gently push it into a well-draining mix and "tent" with a plastic bag to keep it humid. don't overwater or the rhizome will rot. don't be alarmed when the mature leaves fall off, you should see new growth in a couple weeks. good luck!

-ming

I'm so glad to see you posting here again, Ming! Guess you must be adjusting to the Very Different growing conditions in Tucson. Sorry for interrupting, Sister Anna! That's a beautiful 'Erythrophylla'! Very healthy and well-cared-for.

Thanks for much for your help!! Can you tell me........can this plant be "pruned" as it seems to keep growing larger and larger!!

hi sister,

my plant, which is not nearly as old or as big as yours, sprawls quite a bit, too. if you were to trim this plant, i would take off pieces of the rhizome and propagate them, as above (waste not, want not!). i'm sure others would love to have a copy of one of the mainstays at your monastary.

-ming