{"product_id":"saxifraga-stolonifera-variegata-strawberry-begonia-tricolor","title":"Saxifraga Stolonifera Variegata | Strawberry Begonia","description":"\u003ch2\u003eSaxifraga Stolonifera Variegata - A Tricolour Treasure\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePrepare to fall in love with the \u003cstrong\u003eSaxifraga Stolonifera Variegata\u003c\/strong\u003e, also known as the Variegated Strawberry Begonia or Tricolor. This stunning plant features round, scalloped leaves with a gorgeous blend of grey-green centres, creamy white margins, and beautiful pink blushes that intensify with good light. Flip a leaf over and you will discover rich burgundy-red undersides that add even more drama to this already spectacular plant!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDespite its common names, this plant is neither a strawberry nor a begonia! It belongs to the Saxifragaceae family and gets its fun nickname from producing red strawberry-like runners (stolons) adorned with adorable baby plantlets. These cascading runners make it absolutely perfect for hanging baskets, where the babies dangle like living decorations. It is also affectionately called \"Mother of Thousands\" for its enthusiastic baby-making abilities!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe genus name Saxifraga comes from the Latin \"saxum\" (rock) and \"frangere\" (to break), referring to the plant's natural habit of growing in rock crevices. In its native habitat across China, Japan, and Korea, it thrives on shady cliffs and mossy rocks, giving you a hint about its preferences for cooler, moist conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eLight Requirements\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor the most vibrant variegation and those gorgeous pink tones, provide bright indirect light. A little direct morning or evening sun is actually beneficial and will enhance the pink colouring in the leaves. Avoid harsh midday sun which can scorch the delicate foliage. In lower light, the plant will survive but may lose some of its beautiful variegation and become leggy as it stretches for light.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWatering\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKeep the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. Think of a wrung-out sponge, that is the moisture level your Saxifraga enjoys. Allow the top layer of soil to dry slightly between waterings, then water thoroughly. Unlike many houseplants, this one does not appreciate drying out completely, which can cause crispy leaf edges and stressed runners. Reduce watering slightly in winter when growth slows, but never let it dry out completely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImportant:\u003c\/strong\u003e Avoid getting water on the leaves when watering. The fine hairs on the foliage can trap moisture and lead to fungal issues. Do not mist this plant. Water directly into the soil instead.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTemperature and Humidity\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a plant that actually prefers cooler conditions, thriving between 10-24°C. It does not enjoy heat and will struggle in warm, stuffy rooms. A cool winter rest period between 10-15°C can encourage flowering in spring. Average household humidity is usually fine, and since misting is not recommended due to the hairy leaves, consider grouping with other plants or using a pebble tray if your home is particularly dry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSoil and Potting\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse a rich, well-draining potting mix with good organic content. A standard indoor potting mix with added perlite for drainage works well. Ensure your pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Repot in spring when roots have filled the pot, typically every 2-3 years. Even if not repotting, refresh the soil every couple of years to replenish nutrients.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFeeding\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFeed with Growth Technology Foliage Focus diluted to half strength (1.5-2.5ml per litre) once monthly during the active growing season in spring and summer. Reduce or stop feeding in autumn and winter when growth naturally slows. This plant is not a heavy feeder, so avoid overdoing it with fertiliser.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003ePropagation\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is one of the easiest plants to propagate! Simply pin the baby plantlets that form on the runners into small pots of moist soil while still attached to the mother plant. Once rooted (usually within 2-3 weeks), you can snip the runner to separate them. Alternatively, cut runners with well-developed plantlets and root them directly in moist soil or water.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFlowering\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn spring and early summer, mature plants may produce delicate sprays of small white star-shaped flowers on tall, slender stems rising above the foliage. A cool, dry winter rest period can encourage blooming, but do not worry if your plant does not flower indoors. The stunning foliage is the main attraction!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003ePerfect For\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePet Owners:\u003c\/strong\u003e Non-toxic and safe!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHanging Baskets:\u003c\/strong\u003e Cascading runners look amazing!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTerrariums:\u003c\/strong\u003e Thrives in humid environments!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCool Rooms:\u003c\/strong\u003e Prefers lower temperatures!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBeginners:\u003c\/strong\u003e Forgiving and easy to propagate!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003ePlease Keep in Mind\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGreat news for pet owners! Saxifraga Stolonifera is non-toxic to cats, dogs, and humans according to the ASPCA. This makes it an excellent choice for homes with curious pets or children. The leaves have fine hairs that can trap water, so avoid misting and water directly into the soil. Each plant is unique and variegation may vary. The photos shown are representative examples of the quality you can expect.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIf you are from a quarantine restricted state and would like to purchase this plant, we recommend using Paradise Distributors concierge service. Make sure to contact them prior to purchasing: info@rareplants.net.au\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Growing Grounds Australia","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51826404098261,"sku":"G743403","price":22.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0720\/5211\/3621\/files\/SaxifragaStoloniferaVariegata.webp?v=1756798178","url":"https:\/\/growinggroundsaustralia.com\/products\/saxifraga-stolonifera-variegata-strawberry-begonia-tricolor","provider":"Growing Grounds Australia","version":"1.0","type":"link"}