Begonia ‘Looking Glass’

Product Description

Begonia ‘Looking Glass’ is one of the most striking cane begonias, loved for its shimmering metallic foliage and elegant upright growth. Its large angel-wing shaped leaves are covered in an almost mirror-like silver sheen, contrasted by deep green veining and rich burgundy undersides.

The dramatic silver colouring gives the leaves the appearance of polished metal or a reflective surface, which is where the plant gets its name. As the foliage catches the light, the silver tones seem to glow, making Begonia ‘Looking Glass’ a real statement plant.

This variety grows taller and more upright than many other begonias, eventually forming long stems topped with large, elegant leaves. Mature plants may also produce clusters of soft pale pink flowers during the growing season, adding even more interest.

Begonia ‘Looking Glass’ is ideal for bright rooms, plant shelves or as a focal point amongst other foliage plants. Its combination of silvery leaves and burgundy undersides makes it particularly effective when displayed where the light can shine through the foliage.

Please note that as a cane begonia, this plant can become tall and may naturally lose a few of its lower leaves over time. Some older leaves may occasionally show small marks, slight browning or minor cosmetic imperfections, particularly after transport. This is completely normal and does not affect the health of the plant.

As with all begonias, every plant is unique and the exact leaf size, silver patterning and shape may vary slightly.

Care Guide

Light

Begonia ‘Looking Glass’ prefers bright, indirect light. Plenty of filtered light helps maintain the beautiful silver colouring and encourages healthy growth.

A position near an east or west-facing window is ideal. It can also tolerate some gentle morning or late afternoon sun, but avoid strong direct midday sunlight which can scorch the leaves.

Too little light may result in slower growth and less vibrant colouring.

Watering

Allow the top few centimetres of compost to dry slightly before watering.

Water thoroughly, then allow any excess to drain away. Begonia ‘Looking Glass’ prefers lightly moist soil, but does not like to sit in wet compost.

Overwatering can lead to yellow leaves or root problems, whilst letting the plant dry out completely may cause leaf edges to become crisp.

Humidity

This begonia appreciates moderate humidity, ideally around 50–60% or higher.

It will usually grow well in a normal room, but higher humidity can help keep the leaves looking their best and prevent brown edges.

Avoid misting directly onto the leaves, as water sitting on the foliage can sometimes cause marks.

Temperature

Keep your Begonia ‘Looking Glass’ in temperatures between 18°C and 26°C.

Avoid temperatures below 15°C, cold draughts and placing the plant close to radiators.

Soil

Use a loose, well-draining houseplant compost.

A mix containing peat-free compost, perlite and a little fine bark works particularly well, helping the roots stay lightly moist without becoming waterlogged.

Feeding

Feed every 2–4 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced liquid houseplant fertiliser.

Reduce feeding during autumn and winter when growth slows.

Growth Habit and Pruning

Begonia ‘Looking Glass’ has an upright, cane-like growth habit and may eventually become quite tall.

If the stems become too long, they can be pruned back to encourage bushier growth. Removing the growing tips can also help the plant produce more side shoots.

Older lower leaves may naturally drop as the plant grows taller. This is normal and helps create the elegant cane begonia shape.

Leaf Marks and Browning

Some older leaves may occasionally develop small brown edges, slight marks or minor imperfections, particularly after transport or if humidity is low.

This is normal and purely cosmetic. The plant will continue to produce fresh new foliage as it grows.

Pet Safety

Begonia ‘Looking Glass’ is toxic if ingested, so it should be kept away from pets and children.