LightStrawberry Begonia prefers bright indirect light at 150 to…
WaterWater Strawberry Begonia when the top third of its soil has…
ToxicitySafe for cats & dogs
Mature sizeIts low foliage reaches 3 to 9 in / 7
Strawberry Begonia forms low rosettes of rounded, hairy leaves. The upper surfaces are dark green with silver markings, while the undersides are reddish. Slender stems carry tiny white, star-shaped flowers in summer. The plant also produces trailing growth that works well near a pot edge. Despite its common name, it is not a true begonia. It suits growers who can balance filtered light with moderate, even moisture.
Care data checked 25 September 2026 · Dany · A-Z Plants
Light requirements
Strawberry Begonia prefers bright indirect light at 150 to 250 μmol·m⁻²·s⁻¹ PPFD. Use a PAR meter or app if you need to measure the site.
Placement: set it 5 ft / 1.5 m from a south, west, or east-facing window.
Prevent a direct view of the sky. A sheer curtain can soften unavoidable direct sunlight.
Too much light: hairy leaves may bleach, scorch, or develop dry patches.
Too little light: stems stretch, silver markings fade, and summer flowering may become sparse.
Watering
Water Strawberry Begonia when the top third of its soil has dried. Test moisture at several depths with a knitting needle or chopstick. Use room temperature rainwater, distilled water, or reverse osmosis water.
Wet the root ball thoroughly until water exits the drainage holes.
Let all excess drain before replacing the pot on a saucer or inside a decorative planter.
Water considerably less during winter when the plant is not actively growing.
Soil that remains saturated can cause root or crown rot. Excessive dryness can wilt the rosettes and leave crisp brown edges. A pot with drainage holes is essential for controlling moisture.
Soil
Use an organic all-purpose potting mix that retains moderate moisture while still draining freely. Strawberry Begonia dislikes both compacted soil and a waterlogged root zone.
DIY mix: combine 3 parts coir with 1 part pumice.
Add worm castings as a top dressing to provide organic matter without reducing drainage.
Feeding
Apply an organic all-purpose fertilizer every 2 to 4 weeks from March to October. Follow the label strength for indoor foliage plants. Avoid heavy feeding, and pause regular applications during winter when Strawberry Begonia is using fewer nutrients.
Temperature & humidity
Strawberry Begonia prefers 60 to 75 °F / 15 to 24 °C. Shield it from sudden cold drafts and hot, drying air. Aim for 50% humidity. Moderate humidity supports the hairy foliage, but good airflow helps prevent moisture from lingering around the rosettes.
What to expect
Strawberry Begonia grows fairly quickly and can mature in 1 to 2 years. Its low foliage reaches 3 to 9 in / 7.5 to 23 cm tall. The main plant spreads about 12 in / 30 cm, with trailing stems extending beyond that footprint.
Varieties & cultivars
S. stolonifera ‘Tricolor’ (Calico Kitten): Green leaves carry white and pink variegation. This compact form reaches a maximum height of around 8 in / 20 cm.
S. stolonifera ‘Marginata’ (Variegated Strawberry Begonia): Green leaves have creamy white margins. It grows slightly larger than ‘Tricolor’ and reaches up to 12 in / 30 cm tall.
Strawberry Begonia: questions
Is Strawberry Begonia toxic to cats and dogs?
The ASPCA lists Strawberry Begonia as non-toxic to cats and dogs. It is also considered non-toxic to people. Even so, the leaves and trailing stems are not intended as food, and…
How much light does Strawberry Begonia need?
Strawberry Begonia prefers bright indirect light at 150 to 250 μmol·m⁻²·s⁻¹ PPFD. Use a PAR meter or app if you need to measure the site. - Placement: set it 5 ft / 1.5 m from a south, west, or east-facing window. - Prevent a direct view of the sky. A sheer curtain can soften unavoidable direct…
How often should I water Strawberry Begonia?
Water Strawberry Begonia when the top third of its soil has dried. Test moisture at several depths with a knitting needle or chopstick. Use room temperature rainwater, distilled water, or reverse osmosis water. - Wet the root ball thoroughly until water exits the drainage holes. - Let all excess…
How big does Strawberry Begonia get?
Mature size indoors: Its low foliage reaches 3 to 9 in / 7.
