Habitat:
Begonia glabra is a widespread, scrambling species native to tropical Central and South America, found in countries including Brazil, Bolivia, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Panama, Peru, Suriname, Trinidad & Tobago, and Venezuela. It typically grows in lowland to mid-elevation humid forests, from sea level up to 1,300 metres, often seen creeping along rocks, tree trunks, or overhanging cliffs near shaded waterfalls, forest streams, and ravines. It favours damp, mossy microhabitats with high humidity and diffuse light, and is frequently lithophytic or epiphytic in habit.
 
Description:
Begonia glabra is a fast-growing, scandent or creeping species, capable of climbing to over 2 metres when supported. Its stems are succulent, green to reddish, and root at the nodes. The leaves are asymmetrical, broadly ovate to orbicular, with a glossy medium green upper surface, finely serrate margins, and typically measure 6–12 cm long and 5–10 cm wide. Undersides are paler, with prominent venation. The species is monoecious, bearing both male and female flowers on the same plant. Flowers are small, with male flowers typically around 1 cm wide, pale pinkish-white, with four tepals; female flowers are slightly smaller with five tepals and an inferior ovary. The plant is often sterile in cultivation. Begonia glabra is unique among climbing begonias for its vigour and adaptability, and is frequently used as a grafting stock or for research due to its regenerative properties.
 
Cultivation:
Begonia glabra thrives in bright, filtered light with high humidity and good airflow. Ideal daytime temperatures range from 20–28°C, with nighttime lows of 15–18°C. It prefers a well-draining, moisture-retentive medium, such as a mix of sphagnum moss, perlite, fine bark, and leaf litter, with a slightly acidic pH (5.5–6.5). Water frequently to maintain light moisture at the roots, but avoid soggy conditions. Humidity should be maintained above 70%, especially in enclosed environments. Fertilize monthly during the growing season with a dilute balanced feed. Suitable for terrariums, hanging baskets, or mounted culture. Responds well to regular pruning and can be propagated easily by stem cuttings.
 
Specifications:
Plant Size: A division from our stock plant, the stem is 20-30 cm.
Plant Family: Begoniaceae
Plant Passport: Begonia glabra B 140084 C [user input] D GB