🌱 Begonia dregei ‘White Spot’ – Care Sheet for Closed Terrariums
Quick ID
Type: Caudiciform / Shrub-like Begonia
Size: Compact – usually 20–30 cm tall in terrariums
Highlight: Green leaves splashed with white spots, attractive gnarled caudex, and dainty white flowers
🌡 Temperature & Humidity
Temperature: 18 °C – 28 °C ideal; brief dips to 15 °C are tolerated but slow growth.
Humidity: Prefers 60%–80%; stable humidity in a closed terrarium is perfect, but avoid dripping wet conditions around the base.
💡 Light Requirements
Bright, indirect light keeps foliage vibrant and prevents legginess.
Avoid harsh, direct rays against the glass, which can scorch leaves.
Under LED grow lights, medium intensity for 8–10 hours/day works best.
💧 Watering
Moist but never waterlogged.
Allow the top layer of substrate to dry slightly before watering again.
Caudex stores some water — overwatering risks rot.
Watch for condensation: heavy fogging signals too much moisture.
🌱 Soil & Substrate
Needs a light, well-draining mix to protect the caudex:
40% fine bark or orchid mix
30% perlite or pumice
30% rich but airy potting mix
Add a drainage layer (LECA or gravel) at the bottom for closed terrariums.
🍽 Feeding
Use a diluted liquid fertilizer (¼ strength) every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring–autumn).
Avoid heavy feeding; overfertilizing can burn roots or encourage soft, leggy growth.
✂ Maintenance
Pinch tips to encourage bushiness.
Remove yellow or fallen leaves promptly to prevent mold buildup.
If stems get leggy, prune lightly and root cuttings for propagation.
⚠ Common Issues
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Rot at caudex base | Waterlogged substrate or poor airflow | Improve drainage and allow substrate to dry slightly |
| Leggy growth | Too little light | Move closer to light source |
| Powdery mildew or mold | Stagnant air | Briefly vent terrarium weekly or use a small fan for airflow |
🌿 Growth Notes
Moderate growth speed, forming a woody base over time.
Produces charming white flowers sporadically throughout the year in stable conditions.
Easily propagated by stem or leaf cuttings — useful if the main plant gets too tall for your terrarium.