SPECIMEN NO. #47
⚠️ TOXIC TO PETS
Family: Begoniaceae
Begonia maculata
Common Name: Polka Dot Begonia
Polka Dot Begonia (Begonia maculata) is a houseplant in the Begoniaceae family, native to Argentina Northeast. It is a bright indirect-light species that thrives between 1500 and 4000 lux. Optimal indoor care calls for watering roughly every 5 days, temperatures of 16–28°C, and about 65% humidity. According to ASPCA data, it is toxic to dogs and cats; reported symptoms include oral irritation, intense burning of mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, kidney failure in severe cases (soluble calcium oxalates). It is also known as Cane Begonia.
ASPCA Pet Toxicity Determination
Toxic to Dogs?
YES (Toxic)
Toxic to Cats?
YES (Toxic)
Clinical Symptoms:
Oral irritation, intense burning of mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, kidney failure in severe cases (soluble calcium oxalates).
Quantitative Care Thresholds
Light Level Profile
Bright Indirect
Minimum Light Requirement
1500 Lux
Maximum Light Tolerance
4000 Lux
Watering Frequency
Every 5 Days
Temperature Envelope
16°C – 28°C
Ideal Ambient Humidity
65% RH
Taxonomic & Field Verification
GBIF Usage Key
7303475
Native Biogeographical Range
Argentina Northeast; BR; Brazil Southeast; Cuba; Dominican Republic; INTRODUCED;...