Begonia Plant – Vibrant Flowers, Beautiful Foliage
The begonia plant includes over 900 species, with a wide
range of flower colors including white, pink, orange, yellow, red, and
salmon.
Begonias that are grown indoors as houseplants are
warm-natured, and generally originate from tropical regions.
All
begonias have fleshy stems and uneven leaves – one half of the leaf is
usually longer than the other. The shape of the leaves vary. Begonia
leaves can be rounded with scalloped edges, elongated hearts, or ivy
shaped forms.
Flowers are either male or female. Female flowers
(a home for seedpods) last for weeks, while male blooms are usually
short-lived.
Types of Begonia Plants
Begonia plants vary in size and longevity, as well as leaf and flower shape.

According to The American Begonia Society (ABS), begonias can be classified into several different categories.
CanesThere
are several types of cane begonias in a variety of sizes. All of them
have tough stems that have a bamboo-like appearance – which is why they
are identified as “Cane” begonias
The most well-known cane
begonia is the Angel Wing species. They come in many varieties, such as
large upright plants or types are grown in hanging baskets. All of
these hybrids have the pointed leaf shapes that resemble wings.
Angel
Wing begonias are popular houseplants due their attractive leaves and
colorful flowers. They are long-lived and can be propagated easily by
rooting stem cuttings.
ShrubsThe
shrub type ranges in size from miniatures to giants that can reach
twelve feet tall. Large varieties have leaves that can grow up to
twenty-four inches long in ideal conditions. The leaf surface texture
varies - some have smooth shiny leaves; other types have hairy or
felted leaves.
RhizomatousRhizomatous
begonias are grown for their interesting leaves, compact growth, and
massive display of flowers. The flowers typically bloom in the spring,
covering whole plant; however, there are a few cultivars that bloom
throughout the year. They range in size, from miniature to larger
plants like B. 'Freddie', which can have three foot leaves under ideal
growing conditions.
SemperflorensSemperfloren
begonias are one of the most widely grown. They are commonly referred
to as Wax Begonias.
Wax Begonias are known for their round, thick, waxy
leaves – giving this colorful flowering plant its common name. They can
be displayed in containers or hanging baskets. In the landscape, they
can be planted as a border or mass planting.
Rexes (Rex Cultorum)Rex
begonias are a type of rhizomatous begonia that are grown for their
multicolored leaves. Rex Begonias are harder to grow than other
cultivars; however, their unique stained-glass leaves make a striking
display. Their large leaves are marked with dramatic colors, such as
pink, green, silver and burgundy.
Trailing/Scandent These
types of begonias are known for their trailing habit. They put on an
amazing display of flowers, typically in the spring. Some of the new
hybrids have longer blooming periods. Some species have glossy leaves
and look like philodendron, while others are climbers with large
leaves. In their native habitat, these types will climb up the
trunks of trees. Most of the trailing types have flowers that are white
or pink in color.
Begonia Plant Care Basics
- Begonias are sensitive to changes in their environment. It is
best to buy begonias from a local nursery. If the plant must be shipped, warm weather conditions are preferable.
- When
you bring begonia plants home, protect them from drafts and dry
conditions by enclosing them in a loose plastic bag for the first few
days. Handling begonias with care in the first few weeks can improve
longevity.
- Begonias can be propagated by setting stem
tip cuttings to root in a warm, humid environment. Some species can be
grown from seed; however, the easiest method is by rooting stem
cuttings or leaves.
- To avoid problems with overwatering and root rot, do not plant begonias in larger containers.
- Begonias
can suffer from over-watering, as well as extremely dry soil. A general
rule of thumb is to allow the top inch of soil to become almost dry
between watering; however, water requirements will vary by species.
- Begonias
need moderate to dry humidity. You can place begonias on a tray of
pebbles filled with water or place them near a humidifier.
Note:
Begonia care requirements can vary, depending on the species. Be sure
to review the requirements that are specific to your plant.