How to Grow Angel Wing Begonia Dragon Wing
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Angel Wing Begonia Dragon Wing
Begonia aconitifolia × Begonia coccinea
flowerDragon Wing Begonia is a striking hybrid combining the elegant wing-shaped leaves of Angel Wing Begonias with vigorous growth and abundant bright red flowers. This tropical houseplant produces glossy, deep green foliage with red undersides and clusters of coral-red or scarlet blooms that appear throughout the growing season. It's prized for both its ornamental foliage and prolific flowering habit, thriving as an indoor plant or in warm outdoor gardens.
When should you plant Angel Wing Begonia Dragon Wing in your zone?
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Example Angel Wing Begonia Dragon Wing timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Angel Wing Begonia Dragon Wing
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Angel Wing Begonia Dragon Wing blooms
Around Jul 16≈ 90 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Angel Wing Begonia Dragon Wing dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 10-11; grown as houseplant in cooler regions
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Get my Angel Wing Begonia Dragon Wing timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
2-4 weeksYoung plant developing root system and initial growth of characteristic wing-shaped leaves
Keep soil consistently moist, provide bright indirect light, maintain warm temperatures (65-75°F), and avoid moving plant frequently to reduce stress
Vegetative Growth
4-8 weeksRapid expansion of foliage with increasingly larger compound leaves showing red undersides; plant becomes bushier
Pinch back growing tips every 6-8 weeks to encourage branching and fuller form. Provide consistent fertilization (diluted liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks). Maintain humidity and stable temperatures.
Flowering
8-12 weeks (continuous in optimal conditions)Clusters of bright red or coral flowers (cymes) appear at branch tips and leaf axils; foliage continues growing
Maintain consistent watering and humidity. Continue regular fertilizing to support flower production. Remove spent flower clusters to encourage new blooms. Ensure adequate light for maximum flower development.
Peak Production
4-8 weeks or longer with proper carePlant is full and bushy with abundant simultaneous flowering; numerous flower clusters cover the plant
Deadhead spent flowers regularly. Maintain optimal light, temperature (65-75°F), humidity, and watering. Feed every 2 weeks with balanced or slightly higher phosphorus fertilizer to support continuous blooming.
Maintenance/Dormancy
2-4 months (winter period)In winter or with reduced light, flowering slows and growth becomes more modest; plant may appear less vigorous
Reduce watering slightly but maintain consistent moisture. Lower fertilizer frequency to monthly or every 6 weeks. Provide as much light as possible. Prune leggy growth in late winter to rejuvenate plant for spring.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Increase humidity, mist foliage regularly, spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap weekly until controlled. Remove heavily infested leaves.
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Isolate affected plant, remove with alcohol-soaked cotton swab, spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap every 7-10 days
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Allow soil surface to dry slightly between waterings, use sticky traps, apply sand layer on soil surface, use beneficial nematodes or insecticidal soap
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Remove by hand or with alcohol-soaked cotton swab, treat with horticultural oil or neem oil, repeat every 7-14 days
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Improve air circulation, reduce humidity slightly, remove affected leaves, spray with sulfur dust or baking soda solution (1 tbsp per gallon water)
Uses
Edible Begonia Flowers
CulinaryDragon Wing Begonia flowers are edible with a tart, slightly lemony flavor and are used as garnishes in salads, desserts, and beverages. The petals add visual appeal and subtle tartness to culinary presentations. [source]
Indoor Ornamental Plant
HouseholdDragon Wing Begonia is an outstanding houseplant for brightening indoor spaces with its combination of striking foliage and prolific red flowers. It thrives in moderate light conditions and adds tropical elegance to living rooms, offices, and conservatories. [source]
Cut Flower Arrangements
CraftThe long-lasting red flower clusters and attractive wing-shaped leaves make Dragon Wing Begonia excellent for fresh flower arrangements and floral designs. Both flowers and foliage add texture and color to cut flower displays. [source]
Traditional Herbal Medicine
MedicinalIn some traditional medicine systems, begonias are used to prepare herbal remedies for digestive issues and inflammatory conditions, though scientific evidence is limited. Constituents in begonia leaves have been studied for potential antimicrobial properties. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeThe abundant red flowers attract hummingbirds and other pollinators, making Dragon Wing Begonia valuable for supporting local wildlife in gardens and conservatories. The nectar-rich blooms provide sustained food sources throughout the growing season. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Not harvested for edibility. For propagation, take 3-4 inch stem cuttings with at least 2 leaf nodes. Remove lower leaves and place in moist potting mix or water. Roots develop in 2-3 weeks. Cut flowers can last 5-7 days in a vase with fresh water changed every 2-3 days.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Dragon Wing Begonia was developed through deliberate hybridization of two South American begonia species and named for its dramatic wing-shaped leaves that resemble dragon wings
- 🌱 The genus Begonia is one of the largest flowering plant families with over 1,800 species, making it one of the three most diverse plant genera alongside Orchids and Ferns
- 🌱 Dragon Wing Begonias can bloom continuously year-round indoors with proper light and care, producing hundreds of flowers, making them extremely prolific compared to most houseplants
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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