Begonia
Begonia spp.
Also known as
Elephant's ear
Begonia x hiemalis in the Flower Dome, Gardens by the Bay, Singapore - 20120712 by Shiny Things (CC BY 2.0)
Partial Shade
Easy care
Moderate watering
Tender
12b-13b
USDA zone
13°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
---|---|---|
1.5m | Max | 1.5m |
20cm | Min | 20cm |
Flowering
-
spring
-
summer
-
autumn
-
winter
More images of Begonia
Begonia Overview
Begonia is a large, diverse genus with hundreds of distinct species. It features a wide variety of leaf structures, colours and textures as well as a varied range of flower forms that come in many different - often vivid - shades. Begonias can be grown outdoors in cooler climates in summer; they can also make good indoor plants. Begonia leaves are often strikingly patterned and the flowers of many species make stunning bedding plants that will brighten up any border, hanging basket or shady spot, whether upright, climbing or trailing in habit. They prefer slightly acid, rather than alkaline, soil and appreciate regular watering during the growing season, but they don't like to be too wet in winter. The flowers are edible and can add interest to many dishes!
Common problems with Begonia
A simple cure for some of these insects is to spray the affected areas with a little dishwashing liquid, mixed with water, in a spray bottle (make routine sprays if the pests are persistent). Prevent powdery mildew by spraying with a registered fungicide.
How to propagate Begonia
Division
Division of the tubers during the dormant period (winter) and replant in the spring. Space the plants 15 cm apart from each other.
Cuttings
Take softwood cuttings of about 10cm and root in a glass of water.
Seed
Special features of Begonia
Attractive leaves
Attractive flowers
Flowers come in extremely vivid colours, except in blue and green. Red, white, pinks and purple are most common.
Pioneer
Pot plant
They work very well when planted in hanging baskets and containers.
Indoor plant
Hedge plant
Other uses of Begonia
Grown for their colourful flowers and/or ornamental leaves.
Edible flowers
Poisonous to Pets
If your pet likes to nibble your plants, check our collection to make sure what they're eating isn't doing them any harm.
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Plant out these flowering bulbs in spring to enjoy their summer performance.
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