Sunday, September 4, 2022

Polka Dot Begonias


 It took a moment for my eyes to sort out and focus on individual leaves amongst the cacophony of dots. Why did this type of begonia develop all these dots?  Perhaps to confuse predators? Polka dots have more light-hearted associations for humans. We tend to think of clown costumes, Minnie Mouse or a novelty song about a bikini. The rippling edges of these begonias hint at another surprise. In addition to sporting a slightly different set of dots on every leaf, the underside of each one is a shiny watermelon pink. This is not a boring plant.