How to Grow and Care for Strawberry Begonia

The Strawberry Begonia, Saxifraga stolonifera, is a popular houseplant whose name can be confusing, as it is neither a begonia nor a strawberry. The name is derived from its growth habit of sending out thin red runners, called stolons, similar to a strawberry plant. Its rounded, fuzzy leaves resemble some begonia varieties. It is also known by other names like Strawberry Geranium and Creeping Saxifrage.

Strawberry Begonia Care Guide

Light

This plant thrives in bright, indirect light. An ideal indoor location is near an east or north-facing window that provides gentle light without the harsh intensity of direct sun. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, causing damage and discoloration. While it can tolerate lower light levels, sufficient brightness encourages more vibrant leaf coloration and the production of its runners.

Water

Consistent moisture is important, but overwatering is a common pitfall. During the active growing season of spring and summer, keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry. Water the soil at the base of the plant and avoid wetting the leaves, as moisture trapped in the foliage can lead to crown rot. During fall and winter, reduce watering, allowing the soil to dry out more between sessions.

Soil

A well-draining potting medium is necessary to prevent water from stagnating around the roots. Use a standard potting mix amended with materials like perlite or coarse sand to provide the aeration and drainage this plant needs. While organically rich soil supports healthy growth, good drainage is the priority to prevent root rot.

Temperature and Humidity

This plant is comfortable in average household temperatures, between 60-75°F (15-24°C). It can tolerate cooler temperatures and may benefit from a slightly cooler rest period in winter, around 50-55°F (10-13°C). Saxifraga stolonifera appreciates moderate to high humidity but is adaptable to indoor levels. To increase humidity, place the pot on a tray filled with moist pebbles or use a humidifier nearby.

Fertilizer

During the spring and summer growing season, the Strawberry Begonia benefits from feeding every four to six weeks. Use a balanced, all-purpose liquid fertilizer diluted to half its recommended strength to support new leaves and runners. Fertilizing is not necessary during the fall and winter when the plant is dormant.

Propagating Your Strawberry Begonia

The plant naturally produces long, thread-like runners, or stolons, with small plantlets forming at their tips, making propagation simple. The process begins by identifying a healthy runner with a plantlet that has started to develop tiny roots. Fill a small pot with a moist, well-draining potting mix and place it next to the mother plant. Guide the runner to the new pot and secure the plantlet onto the soil’s surface, using a small wire or paperclip to pin it in place.

While the new plantlet establishes itself, it remains attached to the parent plant, receiving nutrients through the stolon. Keep the soil in the new pot consistently moist. After a few weeks, gently tug on the plantlet to check if it has developed a solid root system. Once secure, the runner connecting it to the mother plant can be snipped.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Yellowing leaves are a frequent complaint and often signal overwatering. If you notice leaves turning yellow, check the soil’s moisture level and allow it to dry out more thoroughly before watering again. Poorly drained soil can also contribute to this problem, leading to root rot.

Brown and crispy leaf edges indicate underwatering, low humidity, or exposure to excessive direct sunlight. Review your watering schedule and the plant’s location to ensure it receives adequate moisture and is protected from harsh sun.

A lack of runners is often caused by insufficient light. Moving the plant to a brighter, indirect location can encourage it to produce stolons.

Pests are not a frequent problem, but look out for spider mites and mealybugs. Spider mites may create fine webbing on the plant, while mealybugs appear as small, white, cottony masses. These can be managed by wiping the leaves with a damp cloth or using a gentle insecticidal soap.