B. ‘Big-Cross’

B. ‘Big-Cross’ was exposed to 3 kR Cobalt-60
gamma-rays. It resulted in large leaves with a
bright purple-brown cross that covered most
of the leaf. B. ‘Big-Cross’ had a non-chimeric mutation, meaning the plant was entirely made
up of the mutated growth. It was described as
being a very strong grower.

Using a Co-7 source, adventitious buds of commercial seedlings were irradiated at a dose rate of 500 R/hr with a total dose of 3 kR (1971). Branch mutations were confirmed by pruning, separation by division, and stabilization in 1973.

This variety features a bright green base with a larger, more pronounced, dark brownish-purple iron cross pattern than its parent variety. In bright light, the brownish-purple areas become more intensely colored and vibrant.

This large-leaved variety is 20-30 cm long and 18-23 cm wide, with an irregular heart shape and finely wavy edges. It is also 30-35 cm tall, very hardy, and grows vigorously. Propagation methods include leaf cuttings, stem cuttings, petiole cuttings, and division. It is used as a potted plant for windowsills or indoors.

• Classification: Cultivar
• Plant Type: Rhizomatous
• Origin: Asia, Japan
• Originator: Naoki Matsubara & Hirokatsu Suda
• Date of Origin: 1973