Begonia formosana albomaculata is a fantastic Begonia with some really cool foliage!  It also has pretty, pink blooms, but you'll probably grow this one for its leaves, which are heavily frosted with silvery spots that are actually raised nubs.  This unusual variegation pattern is naturally occurring - it's not a cultivated hybrid.  The plant comes from forests in Taiwan and the nearby Ryukyu Islands of Japan.  Winters can get cold there, so this Begonia has developed some cold hardiness.  It's a choice plant with great horticultural potential.  It is rarely seen for sale.

 The plant grows to about 2 feet tall and a bit wider.  It has a rhizomatous growth habit, with attractive, thick stems.  The leaves grow about 8 inches across.  Bright light with long days seems to bring out the strongest spotted pattern.  I grow mine under lights for 16 hours a day.  Blooms appear from spring to autumn outdoors, or any time indoors.  The female flowers are very big - up to 2 inches across.  The plant has good breeding potential with some other Begonias to create new, hardy hybrids.

It is reported to handle warmth well, as well as several degrees of frost if the rhizomes are well-mulched.  I have no experience with it in either hot or freezing conditions, so i recommend using caution in temperature extremes.  Like most Begonias, it enjoys moist, well-draining soil of good fertility.  It can handle some direct sun, but it will probably need some protection from strong afternoon sun.  Over about 40% humidity is best.  In the right conditions, it is an easy plant.

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