|
 Pellionias
are creeping perennials found from Vietnam to Mal aysia and Burma.
P. repens, the Watermelon Begonia, is a low growing plant up to 4
inches high with an indefinite spread. This trailing plant has
fleshy stems clothed with broad, oval, scalloped leaves that have
soft grayish green centers and purplish-brown edges. Its flowers are
insignificant, as this plant is grown for the beauty of its foliage.
They should have moist, but well-drained soil in a partially shaded
location. They need a humid atmosphere. When growing in hanging
baskets, first line the basket with moss and then fill with equal
parts of loam and leaf mold or peat, with a liberal amount of sand
added. Insert rooted cuttings, 4 inches apart, in the top and sides
of the basket. Hang the basket in a shady place and sprits with
water daily. When the plants are first inserted, the soil is watered
thoroughly, but no more should be given until it becomes fairly dry.
Keep watering this way until the plants are well established, after
which the soil is kept moist throughout the summer. propagation:
Separate rooted stems or take stem cuttings.
varieties: P. repens; P. Daveauana; P. pulchra. |
