About Begonia masoniana Irmsch.
This species is a rhizomatous perennial begonia that grows up to 0.5 metres (20 in) tall. It produces large, asymmetrical, textured green leaves covered in reddish hairs, with a prominent dark brown pattern in the center of each leaf that resembles the German Iron Cross. It bears small white flowers in erect panicles, but is cultivated primarily for the visual effect of its foliage. In temperate regions, it must be grown under glass or in a completely frost-free environment. It should not be confused with Begonia variegata, a similar-looking species native to Vietnam. While it is sometimes incorrectly grouped with Rex begonias, this species is actually classified in the related section Coelocentrum. This plant has received the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.
