Angel Wing Begonia, Begonia maculata, Begonia Rex, Polka Dot Begonia, Wax Begonia, Strawberry Begonia, Tuberous Begonia, Dragon Wing Begonia
Begonia plants are popular flowering plants with over 2,000 species and countless hybrids. They are native to subtropical and tropical regions and are used as ornamental plants both indoors and outdoors. Begonias are prized for their vibrant flowers, which come in a range of colors and sizes, as well as their attractive foliage.
Growth habit: Begonias have varied growth habits, including upright, trailing, and mounding forms. Some are grown for their beautiful foliage, while others are prized for their vibrant flowers.
Size: Depending on the species, begonia can range in size from just a few inches to over 3 feet (90 cm) in height.
Flowers: Begonia flowers come in various colors, including white, pink, red, orange, and yellow. Some species have single or double blooms and may have a waxy or velvety texture.
Blooming season: The begonia blooming season varies depending on the species and cultivar. Generally, they start flowering in late spring or early summer and continue to bloom throughout the summer and into the fall. Some begonias, like the tuberous begonia, have a more specific blooming period in the summer, while others, like the wax begonia, can bloom almost continuously throughout the growing season.
Foliage: Begonia foliage is one of the plant’s most attractive features. The leaves come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, ranging from green to reddish-brown and even silver. Some begonias have striking leaf patterns with spots, splashes, or variegation. The texture of the leaves can also vary from smooth and shiny to hairy or rough. In some cases, the begonia foliage can be just as attractive and showy as their flowers, making them an excellent choice for adding visual interest to gardens or indoor spaces.
Hardiness: Begonia plants have a wide range of hardiness depending on the species. Some are tender perennials and are only suitable for USDA hardiness zones 10-11, while others, like the hardy begonias, can tolerate colder temperatures and can be grown in zones 6-9. In colder climates, some begonias can be grown as annuals or brought indoors during the winter to protect them from frost.
Uses: Begonia is a versatile plant that can be used in containers, hanging baskets, window boxes, and garden beds. It can also be grown as a houseplant.
Toxicity: Begonias are mildly toxic to humans, cats, dogs, and horses. The underground roots are the most toxic part, containing soluble calcium oxalates. Ingestion may cause kidney failure in grazing animals and vomiting or excessive salivation in pets. Contact with the sap can result in skin irritation. Handle with care. Poisonous flowers and plants: Identifying toxic risks around you
Overall, begonias are a beautiful and rewarding plant to grow, with a wide range of varieties and growing options to choose from.
Hardiness |
7 - 11 |
---|---|
Plant Type | Annuals, Perennials |
Genus | Begonia |
Exposure | Partial Sun |
Season of Interest | Spring (Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall |
Height | 6" - 3' (15cm - 90cm) |
Spread | 6" - 1' (15cm - 30cm) |
Maintenance | Low |
Water Needs | Average |
Soil Type | Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Showy |
Tolerance | Deer, Rabbit |
Landscaping Ideas | Hanging Baskets, Patio And Containers, Beds And Borders |
Garden Styles | City and Courtyard, Informal and Cottage |
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Hardiness |
7 - 11 |
---|---|
Plant Type | Annuals, Perennials |
Genus | Begonia |
Exposure | Partial Sun |
Season of Interest | Spring (Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall |
Height | 6" - 3' (15cm - 90cm) |
Spread | 6" - 1' (15cm - 30cm) |
Maintenance | Low |
Water Needs | Average |
Soil Type | Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Showy |
Tolerance | Deer, Rabbit |
Landscaping Ideas | Hanging Baskets, Patio And Containers, Beds And Borders |
Garden Styles | City and Courtyard, Informal and Cottage |
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Create a membership account to save your garden designs and to view them on any device.
Becoming a contributing member of Gardenia is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. If you provide us with your name, email address and the payment of a modest $25 annual membership fee, you will become a full member, enabling you to design and save up to 25 of your garden design ideas.
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