Strawberry Begonia (Variegated)

Saxifraga stolonifera 'Tricolor' (Variegated Strawberry Begonia)

Overview

  • Rosettes of round, fuzzy leaves edged in pale pink and cream
  • Spreads gently via thin red stolons—reminiscent of strawberry runners
  • Compact, cascading form perfect for shelves, shallow bowls, or terrariums
  • Best grown freeform to highlight its natural mounding and trailing growth

Saxifraga stolonifera ‘Tricolor’, often called Variegated Strawberry Begonia, is not a begonia and has nothing to do with strawberries—but the name sticks, and so does its charm. Soft, scalloped leaves form small colonies, connected by thread-like runners. At BoDurtha’s, we think of it as a plant for the quietly curious: unassuming at first glance, but full of texture, contrast, and subtle movement.

Origins

Native to the cool, shaded forests of East Asia, particularly Japan and China, where it grows along rocky outcroppings and forest floors.

Light Requirements

Prefers bright, indirect light or soft filtered shade.

  • Direct sun may scorch or bleach delicate variegation
  • Low light reduces contrast and slows growth
  • Ideal for east-facing windows or spots with soft morning light

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy.

  • Let the top ½ inch of soil dry slightly before watering
  • Leaf droop or limp stolons may signal thirst
  • Prefers slightly higher humidity but adapts well indoors

Soil & Potting

Use a fine-textured yet breathable Aroid Mix with added peat or coco coir for moisture retention.

  • Ensure good drainage—avoid heavy, dense soils
  • Shallow pots or low bowls suit its spreading habit well
  • Trim runners to manage shape or encourage fullness

Fertilizer

Feed lightly during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength.

  • Monthly feeding supports growth and runner development
  • Skip feeding during cooler, dormant months

Recommended Growth Style: Freeform

This plant is happiest when allowed to spread, trail, or fill a space on its own terms.

  • Let it cascade from a pot, sprawl across a shelf, or fill a terrarium corner
  • Perfect for creating soft, layered textures in mixed arrangements
  • Gently trim runners to shape or propagate new plants

Final Notes

Variegated Strawberry Begonia is a quietly complex plant—low-growing, soft-edged, and deeply patterned. At BoDurtha’s, we think of it as a grounding presence in any collection. It doesn’t need to be center stage to be memorable—sometimes, the magic lives in the margins.

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