Spotlight On: Begonias

Our Spotlight Series continues to highlight different plants that are a great addition to any garden. Some you may know and others may be completely new to you.

Begonia

Scientific Name: Begonia selections

Plant Type: Annual

Sun: Sun to Shade (Depends on variety)

Water:  Moderate

Bloom Time:  Late Spring through Fall

Bloom Color: Red, White, Pink, Yellow, Orange, Bicolor

Height:  6-18 inches

The name Begonias overs a wide variety of plants.  There are some that are grown to be houseplants while others are outdoor bedding plants.  Some are known for the beautiful foliage, while others are only want indirect light or more shade. Some are drought tolerant, while others need ample water.  Altogether, these plants are low maintenance and great additions to your home and garden.

Overall, begonias will need to be planted outside after frost has passed, and brought in before the nights get too cool. They are tropical plants that want to be kept in warmer temperatures. These plants are also low maintenance in that they do not need to be dead-headed, they are “self-cleaning.” The different types of begonias include wax begonias, Reiger begonias, Rex begonias, non-stop or tuberous begonias and cane or Angel Wing begonias.

Wax begonias are mainly outdoor flowers. These are the begonias that come in flats for planting in beds or pots, and are only available in red, white or pink flowers.  They can have green or red foliage, are drought tolerant and can be planted in sun or shade. 

The remaining varieties can be both outdoor and indoor, as long as the weather is warm enough. Cane begonias can be planted in sun or shade, while the remaining varieties want more shade and indirect light.  Cane begonias come in pink or red, and are also known as Angel or Dragon Wing begonias or the shape of their leaves.  Rex begonias are mainly grown for their foliage, only producing small pink or white flowers occasionally. These make great houseplants, adding color to your home with its unique foliage.

Tuberous and Reiger begonias come in a wider variety of colors.  Non-stop or tuberous begonias have large, layered blooms, and are actually an edible flower.  Reiger begonias are smaller flowers than the non-stop blooms, but larger than the wax variety. They come in a variety of colors, and while they are a great choice for a blooming houseplant, they do have a dormant period during the winter.

No matter which variety you choose, begonias are always a great choice for your garden.

Happy Planting!