Troubleshooting
Begonia 'Black Mamba' problems — and how to fix them
Begonia 'Black Mamba' (Begonia 'Black Mamba') 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.
Powdery mildew
Grey-white film in still, humid air; boost airflow, keep foliage dry and never mist the leaves directly.
Rhizome rot
From soggy soil or burying the rhizome; sit the rhizome on the surface and allow the top of the mix to dry between waterings.
Scorched dark leaves
Direct sun bleaches and burns the near-black foliage; relocate to bright indirect light.
Leaf-edge browning
Dry indoor air, especially near heating; raise humidity and keep away from draughts and radiators.
Prevent begonia 'black mamba' problems before they start
Most begonia 'black mamba' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for begonia 'black mamba' in general rather than its problems? Read the full begonia 'black mamba' care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Begonia 'Black Mamba' problems — FAQ
Why is my begonia 'black mamba' powdery mildew?
Grey-white film in still, humid air; boost airflow, keep foliage dry and never mist the leaves directly.
Why is my begonia 'black mamba' rhizome rot?
From soggy soil or burying the rhizome; sit the rhizome on the surface and allow the top of the mix to dry between waterings.
Why is my begonia 'black mamba' scorched dark leaves?
Direct sun bleaches and burns the near-black foliage; relocate to bright indirect light.
Why is my begonia 'black mamba' leaf-edge browning?
Dry indoor air, especially near heating; raise humidity and keep away from draughts and radiators.