This is a close look at the rare Begonia pavonina, the famed "Peacock Begonia".  When light hits the leaves from a certain angle, they light up with a shimmering metallic blue similar to a Morpho butterfly.  The plant is found only in the cool, mountain forests of Malaysia.  The iridescence of its leaves is a fascinating adaptation to the low light levels of the forest floor.  If you can provide the right conditions - cool temperatures, high humidity, and low light - it is easy to grow.

The leaves of this rhizomatous Begonia average 4 to 6 inches long, and have attractive, burgundy undersides.  They have been studied by scientists for their unusual iridescence.  It is believed that it functions to protect the leaves from strong bursts of light in the dark forest understory.  The leaves are normally a satiny dark-green, but appear iridescent in the right lighting due to the design of the leaf surface.  The plant blooms regularly throughout the year, with pretty, pink & white flowers.

This Begonia is happiest in temperatures between the upper 50s and the low 70s (14-23°C).  It reportedly does not do well in consistently warm temperatures.  It prefers high humidity, and does well in a terrarium.  While it grows fine in bright shade, the blue iridescence develops best in deep shade.  Natural light seems to bring out the blue better than artificial light, as does a drop in air temperature at night.  You may use a standard, well-draining potting mix used for other terrarium Begonias.  I use a mix of 1 part coir fiber to 1 part perlite, with slow-release fertilizer added.  It prefers slightly alkaline soil, so add a dash of lime to the mix.  Keep the soil evenly moist, but not soggy.  Keep the plant root-bound in a short pot for the best leaf color.  It is a very vigorous grower for me.

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Photo 1 courtesy of Harry Witmore, photo 2 by Magalie L'Abbé