Is Polka Dot Plant Toxic to Dogs and Cats? The Begonia maculata prefers temperatures of 65 86 degrees Fahrenheit(18-30 degrees Celsius)but may endure higher temperatures during the day. The plant is part of the Acanthaceae family. Yellow leaves on a Polka Dot Begonia indicates your plant has received too much water. When the busy growth season has ended, the plant will finish flowering and will begin to slow down in the winter. A single stem of the Polka Dot plant bears clusters of white flowers with yellow centers in addition to its stunning foliage. Only repot a Begonia when roots have grown onto the outer edge of the current pot it's growing within. This prevents root rot and overwatering. I'm an SEO expert and a Content Manager prodigy. Repotting is best done in the spring. Wait until all the water drains before placing your plant back in a bright location. Required fields are marked *. Little and often is what I'm after. Maculatas like moist soil most of the time never give them a drought but they benefit from having the top half-inch of their soil dry out before rewatering. The plant can also have extremely few purplish-toned flower spikes in some situations. As long as they are planted outside or in a room off-limits to pets, Polka Dot Begonia is not only . Astrophytum Asterias Rated 5.00 out of 5 based on 39 customer ratings00 Required fields are marked *. Pour enough water through the soil until it drains out the drainage holes in the bottom of your pot. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Plants Craze participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Step 2: Gently loosen the soil and dig a shallow hole around 1 deep. Keep your pet away at a safe place until your veterinarian arrives at your location. . How tall will a Polka Dot Begonia grow? Any temperature below 59F (15C) can kill off your stunning polka dot begonia. Hypoestes phyllostachya grows to be around 10 inches tall. If you live in warm climates and you grow silver spotted-leaf begonias outdoors, choose a bright but shaded area of your garden. The best time to prune a begonia maculata is in late fall. If one or two of the oldest leaves turn yellow each year then this is just natural ageing. . Toxins are observed in the terrestrial species of Begonias . $35.00Status:In stock Also make sure your plant isnt sitting in a drafty area. If you see any signs of discomfort, contact a local veterinarian or go to a nearby hospital. If you have babies around your home, keeping the Polka Dot Plant, where they can not reach out would be better. [Reasons & Fixes], White Bird of Paradise: Best Grow & Care Guide. The plant may need staking as it grows. This article will give you all the information, you need to know about the relationship between cat and polka dot plant. both toxic substances. You can pinch back your Begonia maculata if its getting lanky or if you just want to shape it a little. If necessary, give medication BUT only after consulting a vet. Another approach is to use a store-bought bitter spray. $65.99Status:In stock. Best Potting Mix. Keep your plants where your pets cannot reach. Add to cart They have a slow growth rate and, once mature, stay small, especially when cultivated indoors. This plant is available in different colors, adding beauty to your house, and making it peaceful and soothing. Nontoxic (Safe, not poisonous) The following plants are considered to be non-toxic. Because of its bamboo-like stems and long, wing-like leaves, the Polka Dot Begonia, a cane begonia, is also known as an "Angel Wing" begonia. Mealybugs, aphids, spider mites, scale, thrips, blackflies, and vine weevils can be found in the cubbyholes and undersides of the leaves, except for the latter, which can be found in the soil. Although these symptoms are not life-threatening, your companion might suffer from diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, drooling, dizziness, etc., if they ingest the plant in large portions. Simply add light and water, and youve got yourself an interior oasis in the making. Caring for polka dot begonia. But they benefit from allowing the top half-inch of their soil to dry up before rewatering. One of the primary effects of plant ingestion is stomach aches. As Polka Dot Plant is a non-toxic plant, you must follow basic gardening techniques, place your plants according to your preferences, keep your babies and pets in mind (if you have any), and you and your family will be fine. Its preferable to plant them in the spring. In general, the Polka Dot Plant is considered non-toxic to your pets, yet we have to be careful and not let our pets eat any parts of this plant. Hypoestes phyllostachya is the botanical name for the polka dot plant, which originates in the African island nation of Madagascar. They do a great job of keeping the soil open and well-aerated, and they also aid in protecting the soil from sudden changes in temperature. Mammillaria marksiana Rated 4.98 out of 5 based on 50 customer ratings00 Begonias can be a bit touchy though, so it is important to know a few things to keep your plant in tip top shape. It sometimes helps to take caring for your plants back to the basics, here's the key considerations that you should take into account when caring for your Begonia maculata. Also, avoid getting the leaves wet when watering. As pet owners, we know that our furry friends are likely to put anything inside their mouths, and plants are no exception. The aim is for bright, filtered light. Polka Dot Begonia can tolerate higher levels of light, but be prepared for accelerated growth with more frequent waterings and fertilizer. To keep your plants safe from clawed claws, construct floating shelves or hang them from the ceiling. Polka Dot Begonia (Begonia maculata) Dmitry Kuznetsov/Getty Images. Another way you can help avoid root rot is to use terracotta pots. Angel Wing Begonias can be propagated from stem cuttings. It is a colorful member of the Begonia genus and the Begoniaceae family. Keep reading for lots more great care tips as well as information on polka dot begonia pests and common care issues. 100 Hybrid Willow Austree Cuttings - Easy starts 8-12", Monstera Albo Variegated Borsigiana - Rooted top - Super Healthy, 4 Fukien tea tree/purple silk plant/ Croton terrarium, Aloe Ferox 'Cape' Bitter Aloe, very filled in 4 inch pot, Gymnocalycium Mihanovichii Variegated Rare Cactus, Best Winter Plants To Grow In Your Garden, Ways To Protect Your Plants From Winter Chill. Polka Dot Plant is a very colorful plant, and I wanted to add beauty by bringing a new baby to my house. Having a begonia maculata in your room will instantly grab everyones attention. The quickest approach is to move the victimized polka dot plant out of reach. Experts Weigh In, Are Black Cats More Vocal? Let's learn all about Polka Dot Begonia care! Sold By: Do you still have any queries related to cats or want to share some experiences with your feline friend, why don't you join us on Facebook with other cat lovers? If consumed, polka dot begonia can cause gastrointestinal problems, and your cat may vomit to get rid of it. Try increasing the frequency of watering a little but keep an eye on the soil moisture to avoid any root rot occurring. Is The ZZ Plant Poisonous for Cats, Dogs, or Other Pets? Having the right soil for begonia maculata plants is essential because it allows the water to drain well. Fungal diseases or bacterial diseases that affect begonias include powdery mildew, leaf spot, botrytis, and Pythium root rot. Prune the extra growth and move the plant to a brighter area, as it needs more sunlight. If the soil is partly moist and youve been watering correctly, other reasons could be inadequate or excessive lighting, nutrient deficiency, or pest infestation. Begonia maculata 'Wightii' is another houseplant that has taken the plant world by storm and is super popular. Bedrooms, toilets, kitchens, and cubicles, to name a few There isnt a room in the house that a houseplant cant liven up. The white spots and the red undersides of the leaves are attributed to the naming of the Begonia maculata as the polka dot begonia. Begonia maculata 'Polka Dot' houseplant. We always prefer to use a moisture meter to determine if our Polka Dot Begonia needs watering as root rot is something you really want to avoid. $13.49Status:In stock Consider a heavy pot made of terracotta or stone because they can become top-heavy. This over-the-top Begonia is no doubt an excellent choice if youre searching for something different that will surely draw attention. Cats will avoid plants that have an unpleasant taste or odour. Transferring to a larger container encourages growth where the plant can reach 5 ft. (1.5 m) tall. Because Begonia maculata like to be slightly root-bound, it requires smaller pots than most other houseplants. Comment * document.getElementById("comment").setAttribute( "id", "a494a4c92f81a67d219a5e7711ff3e96" );document.getElementById("ce8ca8f7be").setAttribute( "id", "comment" ); Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The simple answer to this question is a NO. To prevent more yellow leaves developing in future, its important to allow the potting mix to dry out between waterings. We've put together this great little starter kit that includes all of the equipment and information you'll need to take proper care of your Polka Dot Begonia. Moisture should be present in the soil, the same way mature Polka Dot Begonias do. If the pet consumes the Begonia maculata, it may vomit, or it may have stomach issues. How to Care for the Bird of Paradise? Begonia Birch Trees Black Walnut Bleeding Heart Boston Ivy Bougainvillea Burro Tail Cactus Caladium . Why are there brown edges on my Polka Dot Begonia's leaves? The leaves are burgundy-red in color and variegated. Begonias with polka dots are poisonous to pets in general, including dogs and cats. Polka Dot Begonia plants are toxic to pets and humans. Sold By: Begonia maculata is an evergreen perennial plant originating from the tropical forests of southeastern Brazil. $25.00Status:In stock Try putting on a windowsill that faces east or west to get morning or evening sun. Contact us now! However, compared to other houseplants, its toxic tendencies are quite mild. CZ Grain If the stems get too leggy or gangly, pinch out the growing tips in summer and the plant should become more bushy. If you have your begonia maculata in pots outdoors in summer, bring them inside when the temperature starts dropping to 60F (15.5C). No, part of the polka dot plant is poisonous to cats. Why does my Polka Dot Begonia have yellow leaves? How Often Do You Water a Cactus? The dark green veins are guaranteed to seduce you into growing it! Deep watering is better for your begonia maculata than shallow watering. Sold By: Temperature: The Polka Dot Begonia thrives better at an average temperature range of 60-80 degrees. Do Petunias Need Full Sun? If you notice a loss of color in the leaves followed by yellowing and ultimately the loss of the leaf, try moving it into more sun. To create a fluffy, springy mixture, start with a light commercial potting soil and gradually add small amounts of perlite and wood chips. Make sure if you have . The genus Begonia comprises more than 2000 different plant species. Why is my Polka Dot Begonia losing leaves? A Begonia maculata requires a minimum of 45% humidity, but more is preferable. Before we give you the essential tips, take a look first at the plants overview. Feed with a balanced fertiliser every month in spring and summer. Why does my Begonia Polka dot has crispy leaves? The soil should be slightly dry before watering, and humidity levels should be highover 45%and the temperature between 65F and 86F (18C - 30C). The Polka Dot Begonia encounters the same typical problems as the majority of indoor plants. Polka Dot Begonia belongs to the Begoniaceae family, similar to Beefsteak Begonia. The Begonia Maculata is a flowering plant, which means it requires fertilizer every once in a while to have enough energy to be able to keep growing. So, youll have to keep your eye on soil dryness and make sure to water it adequately. Check the moisture in the soil and adjust your watering schedule accordingly. To keep it sterile and fresh, store it in an airtight container. So, it is okay to keep any non-toxic plants inside your house where your pets can not reach them, including the Polka Dot Plant. Serious health problems for your cat can result from even a small piece of a Begonia plant. Because of their native environment, high humidity, warm temperatures, and indirect or filtered light are the essential care factors. The Polka Dot Begonia ain't no picky eater. Are Fiddle Leaf Figs Toxic to Pet Cats, Dogs, or Other Animals? There is white mildew on my Polka Dot Begonia. The oxalic acid in the juicy tissues can cause eye burns, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and even death if they are eaten in large quantities. How to care for begonia maculata: Polka dot begonia (Wightii) needs well-draining soil, and the pot should be in bright, indirect light. . $8.99Status:In stock The best part is that if your catis well-fed, he will not consume any plants. Although it won't cause serious long-term damage, ingestion can cause stomach irritation. Sold By: Water Demanded by Polka Dot Begonia. After you've received the tubers package, remove it from the bag and prepare the ground where you want to plant. Polka dot begonia cats. Start by taking a cutting from your plant around 6 inches in length, this will ensure you have at least one node one the stem. Mature Bonsai Money Tree | A unique, braided, good luck plant Rated 4.82 out of 5 based on 340 customer ratings00 Rose Green Leaf. The best way to try and save a polka dot begonia that is looking poorly is to repot it. Similar-looking polka dot patterns can be found on the leaves of Polka Dot Begonias, but cats should avoid them at all costs. Check out our polka dot begonias selection for the very best in unique or custom, handmade pieces from our shops. Plants are no exception to the rule that dogsand cats enjoy putting things in their mouths. Aloe Aristata, Lace Aloe, Rare Haworthia, 2 inch, torch plant Rated 4.79 out of 5 based on 254 customer ratings00 If this 6 section of stem has any leaves, be sure to remove all of the lower leaves and place in either water. What Is Polka Dot Begonia: Origin and Description. But Polka Dot has another secret talent -- how it grows as it matures. Here are some common issues that you might run into. Your email address will not be published. Some plants might irritate other areas after vomiting up. Mealybugs look like tiny white fluff that congregates where leaf stems join main stems. How Much Do They Need? Still, if ingested, it causes severe burning and irritation in the mouth of your furry friends. Sold By: Polka Dot Begonia Plant Profile. 2. We offer faster transactions online and ensure your plants safety! I don't like my soil to be too dry or too soggy. Too little lightand you will notice that the leaves lose their vibrancy. If you're a beginner indoor gardener or just new to growing orchids, this beginners guide is for you. Gar-Zen Botanical Design We go to great lengths to help users better understand their pets; however, the content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Turning the leaves over reveals stunning crimson-red undersides. Flower Color: The plant is glazed with Silvery-white dots with a reddish . If he isnt spending time with his plants, you can almost always find him around his sweet yellow Labrador retriever, Tupelo. Plant the begonia in a pot with fresh potting mix. Water your plant every four days during the hotter summer months and every two weeks during the cooler months of autumn and winter. However, keep in mind that caring for polka cats is crucial because they are not easy to develop. The Begonia Maculata is not toxic in and of itself, but it may cause some irritation and vomiting. Table of Contents. If it receives very little light, it will become leggy. These angel wing begonias are considered toxic to dogs, cats, and horses by the ASPCA. Plus, it will grow tall and spindly, with weak stems and no flowers. Feed begonias with a balanced fertilizernitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in equal quantities. Even if they do not show signs of poisoning, they may become unwell if they eat any portion of the polka dot plant. The spotted begoniaalso called Wightiimust be one of the most dramatic indoor plants you can grow. What to Do If Your Pet Ingests Polka Dot Plant? Bleu Lotus Gardens Late autumn is the optimum time to prune and maintain height if your plant grows too tall. If you notice that the leaves and stems on your Polka Dot Begonia are drooping down, this is an indication that your plant needs more water. Remember to keep the houseplant out of drafts as they can chill your indoor plant too much. Image Source. Cats are deterred from probing in plants by certain aromas, textures, and sounds. Indoor Plants for Beginners is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.