Propagation Guide

Leaf Cutting Propagation

The begonia specialist's method

Leaf cuttings are the primary propagation method for rhizomatous begonias and a handful of other genera. Unlike stem cuttings, you use the leaf itself — either as a whole leaf, a leaf section, or via the petiole (leaf stalk). Tiny plantlets emerge from the cut margins or veins of the leaf and can be separated once large enough. It's a remarkably effective method that can produce dozens of plants from a single leaf.

Best For

  • Rhizomatous begonias — the most reliable method
  • Rex begonia cultivars — leaf sections produce many plantlets
  • Some succulents (not covered here)

What You Need

  • Sharp, sterilised blade or scissors
  • Shallow tray or propagation box
  • Moist propagation medium: 50/50 perlite and coco coir works well
  • Clear lid or cling film to maintain humidity
  • Warm, bright location (no direct sun)

Step by Step

  1. 1

    Select a healthy, mature leaf

    Choose a fully developed, healthy leaf. Avoid damaged, old, or very young leaves. The leaf should be firm and free from pest damage or disease.

  2. 2

    Choose your method: whole leaf, sections, or petiole

    Whole leaf: place the entire leaf flat on the medium and make shallow cuts across each main vein. Leaf sections: cut the leaf into sections 3–5 cm across, each including a main vein. Petiole: insert just the petiole (leaf stalk) into the medium at a 45° angle.

  3. 3

    Prepare the medium

    Fill a shallow tray with moist (not wet) propagation medium. It should hold moisture but not be waterlogged — squeeze a handful and only a few drops should emerge.

  4. 4

    Place or insert the cutting

    For whole leaves: lay flat on the surface and pin or weigh down lightly so veins contact the medium. For sections: insert the cut edge into the medium. For petioles: push the stem 2–3 cm into the medium.

  5. 5

    Seal and maintain humidity

    Cover with a clear lid or cling film to maintain 70%+ humidity. Place in bright indirect light at 20–24°C. The leaf should not wilt — if it does, increase humidity.

  6. 6

    Watch for plantlets

    Tiny plantlets emerge at cut vein margins within 4–10 weeks. They will be very small initially — allow them to develop 2–3 true leaves before separating.

  7. 7

    Separate and pot up

    Carefully separate individual plantlets once they have 2–3 leaves, handling by the leaf rather than the stem. Pot individually into a light, free-draining begonia mix.

Tips for Success

  • Begonias root fastest at 22–24°C — a heat mat under the tray speeds things up considerably
  • Whole leaf method with vein cuts produces the most plantlets from a single leaf
  • Misting rather than watering prevents disturbing the delicate medium surface
  • Don't remove the parent leaf until it has fully dried — it feeds the plantlets until they are independent

Common Mistakes

  • Using too wet a medium — the leaf base or cut edges will rot before plantlets emerge
  • Removing the parent leaf too early — plantlets need it for stored energy
  • Placing in direct sun — the leaf will scorch and die before plantlets emerge
  • Not making cuts across the veins on whole leaves — plantlets only emerge from cut vein surfaces