Angel Wing Begonia ‘Flamingo Queen’

The Begonia ‘Flamingo Queen’. This exceptional cane-type begonia was hybridized by Ross Bolwell of Annangrove, New South Wales, Australia, in 1990–1991, and has since become one of the most celebrated begonias in cultivation.

‘Flamingo Queen’ is a cross between Begonia maculata (listed as U078) and Begonia ‘Lenore Olivier’. The result is a vigorous, large-growing cane begonia that forms a substantial, rounded plant. When left to grow naturally, it makes a full, bushy specimen; when staked, it can reach an impressive 3 to 4 feet tall.

Each enormous leaf can grow to 12 inches (30 cm) long, making it one of the largest-leaved cane begonias available. The leaves are a medium green, adorned with bold silver spots and finished with a delicate, thin silver edge along the leaf margin. The undersides are a pale green with red veins, adding dramatic contrast when viewed from below. The stems themselves can reach up to 3 feet tall, with leaves up to 12 inches long.

In summer, ‘Flamingo Queen’ rewards you with large clusters of bright pink flowers, each up to 4 cm wide, hanging gracefully from the stems. This stunning combination of dramatic foliage and vibrant blooms earned it the American Begonia Society’s Alfred D. Robinson Medal of Honor for an outstanding cultivar in 2002.

Care Instructions: Provide bright, indirect light for optimal growth and vibrant silver spotting. An east-facing or shaded south-facing window is ideal. Water when the top 1 inch of soil feels dry, roughly every 5–7 days in average indoor conditions. Water deeply, then allow the surface to dry slightly before watering again.