黑武士秋海棠Darth Vader Begonia

Darth Vader Begonia is endemic to Borneo, and is very rare. The leaves are near-black (hence its name) edged with lime green, and it bears bright red flowers. It requires very high humidity and needs to be watered very sparingly (do not let any water touch its leaves).   

How to care:

You need to use well-draining soil, which prevents you from over-watering a plant. Also, use a plant pot with drainage holes. You can make well-draining soil using:

- Sphagnum peat moss
- Perlite
- Coarse sand

This plant needs partial sunlight, which means indirect sunlight. To create partial shade, place it in a window only during the morning sun. This should be either north or east-facing window. Once morning is over, place it back to a more shaded area.

Begonia darthvaderiana plant needs plenty of hydration to survive and thrive. Avoid over-watering, or it can cause a variety of issues, including fungi and root rot. If only a few roots have rotted away, feel free to trim those bad roots. Begonias are also prone to fungi. Once the spores spread, the fungus will take over your plant. Different fungi are very difficult to remedy.

The best temperature range for Begonia is between 70F(21C) and 75F(24C). Avoid cold temperatures at all times. Frost on the leaves can harm it.

Humidity is an important factor for all Begonias, including the Begonia darthvaderiana. In most cases, you have to create humidity. Especially if you live in an area with dry air. One popular method is to spray the leaves of your plant down from time to time. When the water evaporates, it creates moisture in the air. This moisture goes straight to your Begonia.

Another great method is the pebble tray method. All you need is a tray, plenty of pebbles, and water. You start by filling the tray to the very top with pebbles. Place the smoothest pebbles at the top of the pile. Next, fill the tray with water. Make sure the water doesn’t flow over the pebbles. It should sit right beneath. Now you place your plant on the tray. When the water evaporates, that moisture goes to your Begonia darthvaderiana plant. Once the water gets low, you only have to fill it again.