With its elegant heart-shaped leaves and showy blooms, the angel wing begonia is an excellent choice for both indoor and outdoor gardens. But does this popular plant need sun or shade to thrive? Let’s take an in-depth look at the light requirements for this beautiful variety.
The angel wing begonia, with the scientific name Begonia x corallina, is a hybrid of several begonia species native to the tropical rainforests of South America. It is distinguished by its large green, heart-shaped leaves and brightly colored blooms.
This perennial plant is appreciated for its versatility, adapting well to both indoor and outdoor environments. It also blooms abundantly for much of the year given favorable conditions.
Sunlight Preferences
While the angel wing begonia can tolerate some direct sunlight, it thrives best in filtered or partial shade. Its native habitat in the tropics is the understory, where abundant vegetation filters the intense sunlight.
3-6 hours per day of gentle or morning sun would be ideal. The harsh midday direct sun can be too strong, causing stress, dehydration, and leaf scorch.
Total shade is also not optimal, as it will reduce growth and flowering. The ideal is a balance of filtered sun and partial shade.
Symptoms of Excess Sun
Too much sun exposure will manifest in symptoms like:
- Yellowish or burnt leaves
- Weak, stretched growth
- Sparse blooms
- Wilted appearance
If you notice these signs, move the plant to a more shaded area.
Angel Wing Begonia Care Tips
In addition to providing proper light levels, angel wing begonias require:
- Frequent watering, keeping soil moist but not soaked
- High ambient humidity – mist leaves periodically
- Balanced, diluted fertilizer applied in spring and summer
- Pruning of dead leaves and blooms to stimulate new growth
- Organically rich, well-draining soil
Indoor Positioning
Indoors, place the angel wing begonia near an east or north facing bright window. You can also position it 2 meters from a window with sheers to filter the light.
Another option is to supplement with grow lights. Rotate the plant periodically for even light exposure.
Outdoor Positioning
Outdoors, look for a spot with partial shade, such as under deciduous trees or on a covered porch. Morning sun with afternoon shade is ideal. It also grows well in greenhouses and as an outdoor/indoor plant.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I care for an angel wing plant?
Bright, indirect light: Place your Angel Wing Begonia in an area with bright but indirect light. Direct sunlight, especially during the most intense hours, can scorch the leaves. Well-lit places or near a window where light is filtered are ideal.
Where is the best place to plant angel wings?
The ‘Angel Wings’ senecio is a drought-tolerant perennial that thrives in full sun in any well-drained soil. Choose a sheltered spot at the edge and avoid wet soils in winter as this can cause the plant to rot. It tolerates salt-laden winds making it useful for seaside places.
How can I tell if my plant prefers sun or shade?
The first way to figure out if your plants like sun or shade is to observe the leaves and flowers. If the leaves are a muted green and small in size, and the flowers are bright colors with showy shapes, it likely wants sun.
