Begonia ‘Tiger Paws’
The spiral‑leaved begonia that’s 2026’s most wanted houseplant
🐅 Trending news: At the 2026 National Houseplant Show, Begonia ‘Tiger Paws’ was named “Best New Foliage Plant”. Its tightly spiralled, silver‑spotted leaves and compact growth habit have collectors buzzing. Bred in the Netherlands, it’s a rhizomatous begonia that stays under 12 inches, making it perfect for terrariums and bright windowsills.
Unlike typical cane begonias, ‘Tiger Paws’ grows slowly and forms a dense rosette of leaves that look like tiny pinwheels. The patterning is a rich chocolate‑brown on a silvery green background, with each leaf curling inward. It thrives in moderate light and high humidity, so it’s ideal for bathrooms or grouped with other humidity‑lovers.
Water when the top inch of soil is dry, and never let it sit in water – the rhizomes rot easily. Fertilize lightly every 4‑6 weeks during spring and summer. It’s non‑toxic to pets, a bonus for households with curious cats.