About
Symbegonia sanguinea is a tropical perennial producing ornamental, asymmetric leaves with a blood-red flush to the undersides and small, white to pink flowers. An ornamental foliage plant for a warm, humid, frost-free glasshouse or conservatory position.
About the genus
Symbegonia is a small genus of tropical perennials closely related to Begonia, found in New Guinea. Plants produce ornamental, often strongly asymmetric leaves and small flowers, and are grown ornamentally for their bold, colourful foliage in warm, humid conditions.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull shade, Full sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Poorly-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesMixed borders, hedging, foundation planting.
Native toUnited States
ToxicityHarmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Care notes
CultivationEasy to grow in most reasonably moist, fertile soil. Tolerant of pollution and all but the most extreme conditions. Fruits most freely after a hot summer
PruningPruning group 1 or pruning group 2
PropagationPropagate by softwood cuttings in summer or hardwood cuttings in autumn. Rooted suckers can be transplanted in autumn
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to fungal leaf spots, powdery mildews, rust diseases, stem galls and honey fungus (rarely)