Begonia Candy Stripes

Begonia ‘Candy Stripes’: Sweet Color. Easy Charm. Pure Joy.
A Care and Growing Guide for This Playful, Eye-Catching Beauty

There’s something irresistibly cheerful about Begonia ‘Candy Stripes’. With its delightful bands of pink, silver, and green running across textured leaves, it brings joy to any room or garden corner. This is a plant that feels playful, but still polished—like a peppermint in a designer wrapper. Whether you're a seasoned plant lover or just starting your collection, ‘Candy Stripes’ is a stunning, easy-to-love choice that adds instant color and personality to your space.

Let’s explore everything you need to know to grow, care for, and enjoy this gorgeous Rex begonia!

---

What Makes Begonia ‘Candy Stripes’ So Special?

As soon as you see it, you get the name. The leaves look like they’ve been brushed with ribbons of pink and silver, with darker green margins that offer striking contrast.

Here’s why people fall in love with it:

• Foliage Pattern: Irregular pink and silver stripes radiate out from the center of each leaf, giving it a “candy cane” effect.

• Leaf Texture: Velvety, slightly ruffled, and full of character.

• Growth Habit: Compact, mounding, and well-behaved—ideal for containers and tight indoor spots.

• Vibe: This plant feels both whimsical and elegant, like a living piece of art.

In short, it’s pure eye candy.

---

Light Needs: Bright, But Gentle

‘Candy Stripes’ thrives in bright, indirect light. Think of a spot that’s bright enough to read in, but never in direct sun.

• Indoors: Near an east- or north-facing window is perfect.

• Outdoors: Only in full shade or filtered light—no harsh afternoon sun.

Too much sun fades the colors and can scorch the leaves. Not enough light? The plant may become leggy, and the stripes might lose their punch.

---

Watering: Stay Steady and Smart

Begonia ‘Candy Stripes’ enjoys even moisture—but not soggy soil. Here’s how to water it right:

• Let the top inch of soil dry out before watering again.

• Use pots with good drainage holes.

• Pour water at the soil line to avoid wetting the leaves, which can cause spotting.

A good habit? Stick your finger in the soil before watering. If it’s still damp—wait. This begonia is a bit fussy about overwatering.

---

Humidity: A Sweet Treat

This plant adores humidity. The more, the better.

To keep your ‘Candy Stripes’ happy:

• Aim for 50–60% humidity.

• Mist it gently in the morning (never at night).

• Group it with other plants, or set it on a pebble tray with water below the pot.

• For best results indoors, a small humidifier nearby works wonders.

Dry air can cause the leaf edges to crisp and lose their striped charm.

---

Soil: Light, Airy, and Moisture-Retaining

The roots are delicate, so the soil needs to be just right.

Use a well-draining mix like:

• 1 part coco coir or peat moss

• 1 part perlite

• 1 part quality potting mix

You can also buy a ready-made mix for begonias or African violets—they’re usually perfect for this type of plant.

---

Feeding: Time It with the Seasons

Feed your begonia once a month during spring and summer using a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength.

Skip feeding in fall and winter. The plant naturally slows down then, and extra nutrients can do more harm than good.

---

Temperature: Keep It Cozy

Begonia ‘Candy Stripes’ loves temperatures between 60–75°F.

Avoid cold drafts, sudden drops, or dry indoor heat. If temps fall below 55°F, the plant will start to struggle. Keep it away from heaters and AC vents.

---

Grooming: Keep It Looking Sweet

This is a low-maintenance plant, but it loves a little grooming now and then:

• Pinch off spent or damaged leaves.

• Remove any yellowing foliage to improve airflow.

• If it gets leggy, give it a gentle trim to shape it up.

This encourages bushier growth and keeps the plant looking fresh.

---

Propagation: Multiply the Sweetness

Want more ‘Candy Stripes’? You’re in luck—it’s easy to propagate!

Try one of these methods:

• Leaf cuttings – Cut a healthy leaf with a bit of stem, press into moist soil, and cover with plastic to hold in humidity.

• Rhizome division – Gently separate and replant part of the underground stem.

Keep the new plants in a warm, humid spot with bright indirect light, and soon you’ll have more candy-striped beauties to share or display.

---

Pests and Problems: Know the Signs

Begonia ‘Candy Stripes’ is generally pest-resistant, but you should still watch for:

• Spider mites – Especially in dry air.

• Mealybugs – Often hide where leaf meets stem.

• Powdery mildew – Can show up with poor airflow or too much humidity.

Combat pests with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Improve airflow and avoid getting the leaves too wet.

---

Styling Ideas: Show Off the Sugar

With its wild stripes and soft textures, this begonia deserves a spotlight.

Here are a few styling tips:

• Pair it with plain green plants to let the stripes pop.

• Use white or soft pink pots to highlight its colors.

• Add it to a begonia mix with varieties like ‘Looking Glass’ or ‘Angel Glow’ for a dynamic display.

• Display it under a grow light to keep it vivid year-round.

Whether you feature it on a windowsill, desk, or plant shelf, it brings joy and color to any room.

---

Why You’ll Love It

Begonia ‘Candy Stripes’ isn’t just pretty—it’s full of personality. It’s bold but sweet, exotic but approachable. And it offers beauty all year long, even when flowers are nowhere to be found.

Here’s what makes it so lovable:

• Incredible foliage that never goes unnoticed

• Compact and tidy growth that fits any space

• Easy propagation for growing your own collection

• A mood-lifting presence with every stripe and shimmer

---

So if you’ve got a soft spot for playful patterns, vibrant leaves, and plants that bring out your inner child, Begonia ‘Candy Stripes’ might just be your new favorite. Sweet to look at and even sweeter to grow.