Do begonias need sun or shade?
Most begonias do very well without much direct sunlight. They prefer part shade and moist soil. Full, direct sunlight, especially in hotter areas, can seriously damage these beautiful flowers. Most begonias will do fine in 4 hours of direct sun. Up to 6 hours of direct sun is tolerated well by most begonia varieties.
Does a Begonia need more shade or sunlight?
What kind of light does Begonias need? Morning sun (and a little afternoon shade) is perfect. Wax begonias can tolerate more sun than other types, and the ones with bronze-colored leaves are the most sun-tolerant of all. Tuberous begonias prefer more shade and less heat, so we often see them on display in late summer.
Can begonias take full shade?
Most begonias grow best in part shade (4 to 6 hours of direct morning sun a day), or filtered sun (as through trees). Most will tolerate full shade (no direct or filtered sun), but won't be as dense and usually have fewer flowers. A few grow in full sun. They prefer moist, but not soggy, soils. Click to see full answer.
Are begonias shade lovers?
The most common are Begonia semperflorens varieties, also called wax, annual, or bedding begonias. These shade-loving plants bring mounds of color when planted under trees or tucked in planters, hanging baskets, or window boxes. Wax begonias are typically grown as annuals, reaching 6 to 12 inches tall and wide.
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What zone do begonias grow in?
Beyond houseplants and annual borders, hardy begonias (Begonia grandis) and their hybrids take their place in shaded landscapes in USDA zones 6 and 7. Partnered with hostas and other shade-loving plants, hardy begonias prefer part to full shade. They even tolerate heavy-shade areas that receive little direct light. Growing 2 feet or more in height and width, hardy begonias bloom from mid-summer through fall. Keep their soil moist to wet, and never let them dry out. Their large, heart-shaped leaves are often blue-green above, with red and burgundy undersides that flash their color when summer breezes pass by.
Do begonias need sun?
For many common garden flowers, beautiful blossoms depend on abundant doses of summer sun. Not to be outdone, begonias (Begonia spp.) offer dazzling blooms from sunny borders to shady corners -- with some begonias grown solely for their striking foliage. Common begonia groups all flourish in part-shade locations, receiving 4 to 6 hours of daily shade, but some begonias swing toward sun or shade more easily than others.
Do begonias bloom in shade?
The striking blooms shine in bright, vibrant colors from summer through fall. Tuberous begonias do best in filtered shade or shaded areas that receive bright indirect light. Balance is important. Too little sun brings few blooms, but too much sun burns tender flowers and foliage. These tender tubers are hardy in USDA zones 9 through 11, and prefer cool summers over heat and humidity. Keep soil consistently moist, but well drained. Avoid overwatering or tubers may rot. The 1 1/2-foot stems fill hanging baskets beautifully and do well overwintering indoors.
Why are begonias so hard to grow?
Begonias that are planted directly in the ground may suffer as the growing season progresses and shadows shift, changing the amount of sunlight they receive. They may also have to compete with trees for water and nutrients. However, they also have an opportunity for unrestricted growth, and they may develop into large specimen plants.
What is the habitat of begonias?
Species Begonias. In their natural habitat, begonias are tropical perennials. They grow under the canopy of larger plants where it is always shady. Species begonias are “wild” begonias that have not been hybridized or crossed with other types.
What are trailing tuberous begonias used for?
Different varieties of trailing tuberous begonias are popular for use in hanging baskets. Begonias that grow from rhizomes tend to be rather bushy and spreading, and they are often used in shady beds and borders.
How to grow begonias in a tropical climate?
They need to have ample water, but the soil should never be soggy. Use perlite in container soil to keep it light so it will drain properly. Mix perlite into the soil in outdoor beds, and into planting holes when you set out rhizomes and tubers. Add peat to boost the soil acidity and increase the humus in heavy soils.
What are some good plants to grow in shade?
Begonias are excellent plants for shade gardens. Of the hundreds of species of begonias, most gardeners grow varieties that fall into a few distinct types. Tuberous begonias have colorful foliage as well as brightly colored flowers.
What are Rex begonias used for?
Rex begonias are used as container plants for indoor or outdoor display, as well as for adding lush texture to shady areas. Begonias that are planted directly in the ground may suffer as the growing season progresses and shadows shift, changing the amount of sunlight they receive. Rex begonias are used as container plants for indoor ...
What is wax begonia?
Wax begonias are grown as annuals in northern gardens. In the wild they are tropical perennials. They have shiny, waxy-looking leaves which may be green or shades of bronze. Their many clusters of small flowers bloom in white and shades of red and pink. Begonias are excellent plants for shade gardens. Of the hundreds of species of begonias, most ...
What is a begonia?
Typically used as houseplants and in shaded summer beds, begonias have tropical and subtropical origins. Some are grown for their asymmetrical, patterned and variegated foliage, and others to add color to shady garden areas with their bright blooms.
When do begonias bloom?
Varies, with the most common types, wax and tuberous begonias, blooming from early summer until frost. Bloom times may also vary if grown indoors and some types bloom all year.
How big do Rex begonias get?
A subgroup of rhizomatous, Rex begonias ( Begonia rex ), are widely available, sold by florists and garden centers year-round, and generally reach 12 to 18 inches tall and wide. Their distinct foliage makes them a popular houseplant, but they can be finicky.
How did the begonia get its name?
An extremely popular variety that makes a great houseplant, this begonia gets its name from the unique snail-like foliage pattern.
How tall do wax begonias grow?
Wax begonias are typically grown as annuals, reaching 6 to 12 inches tall and wide.
What is the largest class of begonias?
Rhizomatous begonias: The largest class, rhizomatous begonias are distinguished by relatively thick stems, or rhizomes, that grow horizontally near the soil surface and sprout new roots and leaves. They also have some of the most interesting leaves and stems and are often grown as houseplants.
How tall do Begonia grandis grow?
Begonia grandis varieties are cold-hardy plants suitable for Zones 6 to 9. They grow 12 to 18 inches tall and wide and thrive in part shade to full shade locations. They’ll bloom from early summer until frost with clusters of slightly fragrant, light pink flowers, and they have large heart-shaped medium green leaves.
What is the best begonia to grow?
For beautiful foliage and a constant display of color throughout the season, grow begonias, such as this beautiful Angel Wing Begonia ( Begonia coccinea ).
How big are tuberous begonias?
Tuberous begonias have 2- to 4-inch wide flowers in white, yellow, orange, rose, red, and pink. They are available either in upright varieties or with trailing stems 12 to 18 inches long. The trailing types are nice to plant in hanging baskets.
How many species of begonias are there?
The Begonia genus is a large and varied group, with more than 1,000 different species. The most common begonias for growing in southern landscapes are the fibrous-rooted semperflorens begonias (or wax begonias) and tuberous begonias.
How to grow wax begonias from seed?
Wax begonias can be grown from seed. Sow the tiny, dust-like seed indoors, on top of the growing medium, without covering, at 68 to 75° F. Start seed about 12 weeks before planting outdoors. Since the seed is tiny, it is often offered in a pelleted form to make handling the seed easier.
Why does Dragon Wing Begonia rebloom?
Dragon Wing Begonia ( ( Begonia x hybrida ‘Bepared’) reliably reblooms because it is sterile and does not expend energy on producing seeds.
How to replant tuber begonias?
Dig tubers before the first frost. Cut tops back to within a couple of inches of the tubers. After dry ing, pack the tubers in cardboard boxes between layers of vermiculite, peat moss, or wood shavings and store at 45 to 55° F.
What are the problems with begonias?
The major pests of begonias are mealy bugs, spider mites, thrips, scales, snails, and slugs. Begonias may be sensitive to insecticidal soaps. For more information on how to test a small application area for sensitivity, see HGIC 2771, Insecticidal Soaps for Garden Pest Control. Begonias are also vulnerable to viruses transmitted by thrips like Impatiens Necrotic Spot Virus (INSV) and Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus (TSWV). Viral infection can cause distorted leaves, black patches on the leaves, or light-colored rings or wavy lines to form on the leaves or blooms. Remove infected plants to mitigate the spread of viruses. For more information on insect and disease problems, see HGIC 2104, Flowering Bulb Insect Pests, HGIC 2049, Powdery Mildew, and HGIC 2100, Gray Mold (Botrytis Blight).
What is the botanical name for a begonia?
Botanical Name: Begonia ‘Solenia Dusty Rose’ . This trademark variety is a tuberous begonia hybrid and features frilly rose-hued blooms from mid-spring to mid-fall, that pair charmingly with its heart-shaped succulent leaves. 5.
What are the different types of begonias?
Based on the root structure, begonias are categorized into four types: Tuberous, Fibrous, Hardy, and Rhizomatous. Fibrous: This category includes cane begonia, wax begonia, angel-wing begonia, and other varieties. All of them have a standard root ball with thin roots, round, small, and waxy leaves. Grow small flowers.
How many begonias are there?
Begonias have gained much popularity because of the striking foliage and equally amazing flowers. There are around 1000 species, coming in a myriad of colors, sizes, and shapes! You can adorn your gardens with these wonderful specimens or place indoors near a bright spot and see them thrive! Here’re some of the best begonia types you can grow!
What is a wax begonia?
A hybrid between wax and tuberous begonia, it features waxy foliage and bright colored flowers in shades of yellow and orange. It flowers abundantly from spring to fall.
What is the most popular subcategory of begonias?
Rhizomatous: This type is mostly grown for interesting foliage and preferably as a houseplant than garden plants. Rex is the most popular subcategory with the loveliest foliage of all begonias!
What is the name of the plant with a crinkled leaf?
Deeply-veined, lily-pad like glossy green leaves with dark-maroon undersides of this compact begonia gives this plant a crinkled look, hence the name.
What do double blooms look like?
With large double blooms, the flowers look somewhat like roses. If you are looking for a flowering variety for hanging baskets, go for this one eyes-closed!
What are the different types of begonias?
Begonia Types. Angel wing: Also known as cane begonia, this type has long stems with "joints" on them. As the name suggests, these begonias have leaves that look like angel wings. Rex: Rex begonias are entirely their own class of begonia.
What are begonias known for?
Begonias come in a large variety of sizes, shapes and colors, and are known for their colorful and intricate foliage. Here are some of our favorite begonia selections.
What are some good plants to plant in a hanging basket?
Begonias are a crowd favorite, and for good reason. These hardy plants have blooms and leaves with varying colors, textures, and sizes, making them work in any garden setting. Begonias are an easy go-to annual for filling containers or hanging baskets.
What is a fancy leaf begonia?
They are rhizomatous, meaning they typically grow horizontally and with shortened stems. Commonly grown as a houseplant for its foliage, these begonias are also known as painted-leaf or fancy-leaf begonias. Rieger: This category of begonias is winter-flowering.
Do Rieger begonias bloom in winter?
Rieger: This category of begonias is winter-flowering. Rieger begonias require cool temperatures and short days to bloom.
Do begonias have single flowers?
Some begonia plants have single flowers with just one row of petals, while others have double blooms with numerous rows of petals. There's a begonia with the right look for any place in the garden. Begonia 'Bellagio Pink'.
Do wax begonias grow in the shade?
They usually have a burst in growth after the summer heat kicks in. Old-fashioned wax begonias do great when planted in the shade. Newer varieties of wax begonias are happy from full shade to full sun. Be sure to check the nursery tag to see the recommended light for each variety.
What is a metallic leaf begonia?
Description. Metallic leaf begonia is a member of the Begoniaceae (begonia) family. Begoniaceae is a large, flowering plant family, the name of which honors Michael Begon (1638-1710), Governor of French Canada, and includes about 1500 different species and hundreds of hybrids.
When do begonias grow?
It tolerates a range of well-drained soil types with pH ranging from neutral to acid. The plant sends up stems from below the soil in spring and early summer, and more new growth can be generated if you pinch or prune the older stems. In turn, the remaining older stems produce more side growth after pruning. As with most begonias, division is by leaf or stem cuttings.
What color are showy blooms?
Showy blooms range in color from pink, red, yellow, white, or bicolors and can be found in doubles.
Height/Spread
Ornamental Features
- Begonias are grown for their foliage and or attractive flowers. Some begonias, such as wax begonias and newer hybrid begonias, will continually flower throughout the summer. They can be used as bedding plants and in window boxes, hanging baskets, and other containers. Another benefit of planting begonias is that they are deer and rabbit resistant.
Problems
- Disease problems associated with begonias include Botrytis blight and stem rot, powdery mildew, and Pythium root and stem rot. The major pests of begonias are mealy bugs, spider mites, thrips, scales, snails, and slugs. Begonias may be sensitive to insecticidal soaps. For more information on how to test a small application area for sensitivity, see HGIC 2771, Insecticidal Soaps for Gar…
How to Grow
- Most begonias grow well in partial shade with moist, well-drained soil containing plenty of organic matter. In general, begonias need bright light to flower well; however, some will burn if the light is too intense. Bronze-leaved wax begonias (Begonia x semperflorens-cultorum) grow better with full sun exposure than other types, whereas green-leave...
Landscape Use
- Bedding varieties maintain a tidy and uniform habit and are ideal for small flowerbeds. Plants should be placed 12 inches apart for the best effect in the garden and somewhat closer in containers. Begonias look best when used in mass.
Species & Cultivars
- The Begonia genus is a large and varied group, with more than 1,000 different species. The most common begonias for growing in southern landscapes are the fibrous-rooted semperflorens begonias (or wax begonias) and tuberous begonias. Most begonia species are tender in South Carolina, but the beautiful and perennial hardy begonia will grow throughout the state. Wax Bego…
Wax Cultivars
- ‘Ambassador’ series has large flowers on compact, green-leafed plants.
- ‘Cocktail’ series is 6 to 8 inches tall with bronze foliage. The flower colors are ‘Brandy’ (pink), ‘Gin’ (rose-pink), ‘Rum’ (white with a rose-red edge), ‘Vodka’ (red), and ‘Whiskey’ (white).
- ‘Prelude Series’ hold up well through rain and heat. The compact plants have bright green foliage.
- ‘Ambassador’ series has large flowers on compact, green-leafed plants.
- ‘Cocktail’ series is 6 to 8 inches tall with bronze foliage. The flower colors are ‘Brandy’ (pink), ‘Gin’ (rose-pink), ‘Rum’ (white with a rose-red edge), ‘Vodka’ (red), and ‘Whiskey’ (white).
- ‘Prelude Series’ hold up well through rain and heat. The compact plants have bright green foliage.
- ‘Pizzazz Series’ includes white, red, and pink cultivars. They are heavy blooming and grow 8 to 10 inches tall.
Hybrid Cultivars
- ‘Dragon Wing’ series is known for its long blooming period and will consistently flower from spring until frost without pause. It reliably reblooms because it is sterile and does not expend energy...
- ‘BabyWing’ series is a more compact, tidier version of ‘Dragon Wing’, reaching only 12 to 15 inches in height.
- ‘Dragon Wing’ series is known for its long blooming period and will consistently flower from spring until frost without pause. It reliably reblooms because it is sterile and does not expend energy...
- ‘BabyWing’ series is a more compact, tidier version of ‘Dragon Wing’, reaching only 12 to 15 inches in height.
- ‘BIG’ series lives up to its name with plants reaching 36 inches tall. These begonias have either green or bronze foliage with red or rose-colored flowers.
Tuberous Cultivars
- ‘Illumination’ series is popular for hanging baskets and has double blooms in a variety of colors.
- ‘Non-stop Series’ are compact and small-flowered multiflora types. They are more heat-tolerant than other tuberous begonias and will flower longer. This type is best suited to growing in the South.
Rex Cultivars
- ‘Merry Christmas’ grows 10 to 12 inches tall with smooth red and green leaves shaped like lopsided hearts.
- ‘Fireworks’ grows 6 to 14 inches tall with a margin and center burst of maroon on silver wing-shaped leaves.
- ‘Helen Teupel’ grows to 12 inches tall with pointed, sharply lobed leaves that are purplish-red …
- ‘Merry Christmas’ grows 10 to 12 inches tall with smooth red and green leaves shaped like lopsided hearts.
- ‘Fireworks’ grows 6 to 14 inches tall with a margin and center burst of maroon on silver wing-shaped leaves.
- ‘Helen Teupel’ grows to 12 inches tall with pointed, sharply lobed leaves that are purplish-red brushed with pink and silver.