Begonia Ferox *Grower’s Choice*

Begonia ferox—often called the Fierce Begonia or Troll Begonia—is a rare rhizomatous species discovered in 2011 in the limestone karst regions of Guangxi, China. It’s known for its dramatic, prehistoric-looking foliage covered in black, cone-shaped protrusions called bullae. Despite their spiky appearance, these cones are soft to the touch. Juvenile leaves emerge smooth and reddish, with the bullae developing only as the leaves mature. Plants typically reach 12–18 inches tall, staying compact and suitable for shelves or terrariums. This species can be delicate in transit and may arrive with leaf melt, but the rhizome generally recovers quickly under proper care.