Begonia thiemei

Begonia thiemei is a Vietnamese species belonging to the cane or rhizomatous begonia group, grown primarily for its striking foliar display. The leaf upper surface exhibits a strong iridescent sheen — shifting between blue-green and teal under different viewing angles — caused by the same structural colouration mechanism found in Begonia pavonina. It is a plant for dedicated terrarium and paludarium keepers who can maintain the very high humidity (above 80%) and stable warm temperatures this species demands.

In a suitable enclosed terrarium or paludarium, B. thiemei rewards patience with a slowly expanding clump of breathtaking foliage. It should be planted in a well-draining, humus-rich mix and kept away from draughts or temperature swings. Flowers are modest white to pale pink blooms, produced periodically but taking second place to the extraordinary leaves.