{"product_id":"begonia-u0497","title":"Begonia U0497","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003ci\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Segoe UI',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003eBegonia U497 is an unidentified rhizomatous begonia that has become a favorite among collectors for its rich coloration, unique texture, and easygoing nature. Originally sourced in Thailand and introduced into cultivation by Dale Sena, this plant remains somewhat mysterious, adding to its appeal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThis is one of my personal favorite begonias. What I appreciate most is the incredible depth of color the foliage develops, especially when grown under lower light conditions. The thick leaves can become nearly black\/blue, creating a dramatic appearance that stands out among other begonias. The bright pink sinus provides a striking contrast against the dark foliage and often appears to glow pink from the center of the leaf. The leaves themselves are unusually thick, rubbery, and sturdy, giving the plant a substantial feel that differs from many thinner-leaved begonias.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe stems are covered in soft red fuzz, complementing the deep burgundy foliage and vivid red undersides. As the rhizomes mature, the plant slowly spreads across the surface of the pot, forming a dense specimen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eIn my collection, this plant is grown in a greenhouse cabinet where humidity remains between 60-75%. It responds well to these conditions, maintaining excellent color, texture, and overall vigor. While it enjoys bright indirect light, I particularly enjoy the darker coloration it develops when grown in slightly lower light settings. My mother plant lives a foot away from a t5 grow light.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eAnother standout feature of \u003ci\u003eBegonia U497\u003c\/i\u003e is its willingness to flower. Mature plants produce bright pink blooms that gradually open to soft white flowers flushed with pink, and under favorable conditions it can flower prolifically throughout the growing season. The cheerful blooms provide a beautiful contrast against the dark foliage and add even more interest to this already impressive plant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eFor growers who enjoy dark foliage begonias, \u003ci\u003eBegonia U497\u003c\/i\u003e is an exceptional choice. Its combination of near-black leaves, glowing pink sinus, fuzzy red stems, durable rubbery texture, and abundant flowers make it a truly memorable addition to any begonia collection.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"She Dreams in Green","offers":[{"title":"3.5 Inch","offer_id":44099336175694,"sku":null,"price":15.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0732\/3860\/9998\/files\/8E269E69-8AC9-4D25-B73B-A4C0B0C2F39F.jpg?v=1785346598","url":"https:\/\/she-dreams-in-green.myshopify.com\/products\/begonia-u0497","provider":"She Dreams in Green","version":"1.0","type":"link"}