Begonia 'Candy Stripe' is a delightful hybrid begonia renowned for its colorful, striped foliage. The leaves are deep green, adorned with striking stripes in shades of pink, red, silver, and occasionally creamy white. This bold pattern, coupled with a metallic sheen, gives the plant a vibrant appearance reminiscent of a candy cane—making it an outstanding choice for adding visual interest to indoor spaces or shade gardens.
The plant forms a compact, manageable shape, which makes it ideal for tabletops, shelves, or centerpiece displays in mixed containers. While 'Candy Stripe' is mainly grown for its decorative leaves, mature plants can produce small, showy flowers that are less attention-grabbing than the foliage itself.
To care for Begonia 'Candy Stripe,' provide bright, indirect light—morning sun is acceptable, but avoid harsh midday sunlight to prevent leaf scorch. The intensity of pink and red striping usually increases with more light, as long as the exposure isn’t too direct. Use a lightweight, well-draining potting mix, such as African violet soil or a peat blend mixed with perlite. Water when the top layer of soil feels dry; aim to keep the soil lightly moist but avoid letting it become waterlogged.
This begonia thrives in moderate to high humidity and prefers temperatures between 65–80°F (18–27°C). Protect it from cold drafts and keep conditions above 50°F (10°C). Fertilize sparingly during spring and summer with a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer for healthy growth and vivid leaf color. Repot annually or when the plant becomes root-bound.
Minimal maintenance is needed—remove faded leaves and occasionally prune to encourage bushiness. Begonia 'Candy Stripe' is typically pest-resistant, but inspect for mealybugs or aphids now and then. It is mildly toxic if ingested, so keep out of reach of pets and children.
With its bold striping, glossy leaves, and simple care needs, Begonia 'Candy Stripe' brings a lively splash of color and cheerfulness to any plant collection.
