Troubleshooting
Begonia 'Black Fang' problems — and how to fix them
Begonia 'Black Fang' (Begonia × 'Black Fang') is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Rhizome rot
The surface rhizome rots if kept wet or buried. Keep it sitting on top of the soil, water at the base, and let the surface dry between waterings.
Faded leaf colour
Leaves turn greener and lose the near-black tone in low light. Move to brighter indirect light to restore the dark, metallic colouring.
Powdery mildew
White patches in humid, stagnant conditions. Improve airflow, avoid wetting leaves, and remove affected foliage.
Leaf-edge browning
Crispy margins from low humidity or dry heat. Raise ambient humidity with a tray or humidifier and keep it away from radiators and drafts.
Prevent begonia 'black fang' problems before they start
Most begonia 'black fang' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for the species overview? Begonia — the full care guide.
Begonia 'Black Fang' problems — FAQ
Why is my begonia 'black fang' rhizome rot?
The surface rhizome rots if kept wet or buried. Keep it sitting on top of the soil, water at the base, and let the surface dry between waterings.
Why is my begonia 'black fang' faded leaf colour?
Leaves turn greener and lose the near-black tone in low light. Move to brighter indirect light to restore the dark, metallic colouring.
Why is my begonia 'black fang' powdery mildew?
White patches in humid, stagnant conditions. Improve airflow, avoid wetting leaves, and remove affected foliage.
Why is my begonia 'black fang' leaf-edge browning?
Crispy margins from low humidity or dry heat. Raise ambient humidity with a tray or humidifier and keep it away from radiators and drafts.