Begonia lyman-smithii was only described as a new species in the late 1980's, from the Oaxaca / Veracruz mountains of Mexico. It is decribed as growing in relatively exposed areas - which belies its element of tolerance. I grow it fairly bright and let it dry between waterings.The mature size is about 10" tall. While foliage of young plants bear conspicuous white speckes, the mature foliage leaves is vastly different. They are deep green on top and bright velvety red beneath, with a felt-like coating of hairs. The leaves are quite leathery and almost succulent-like. Immature / developing leaves are coppery in color, and edged with a copper-bronze felt-hairs - an extension of the leaf underside - making for a very unique and worthwhile plant for the collector!Plants are currently in 2" pots.
