Wax Begonia – Colorful Flowering Perennial
The Wax Begonia (also known as the
Begonia
semperflorens-cultorum and Fibrous Begonia) is known for
its round, thick, waxy leaves – giving this colorful flowering plant
its common name. The leaves are usually dark-green in color.
Some hybrids may be tinged with bronze, while others have burgundy
leaves or are variegated with white.
The flowers of the Wax Begonia are available in a variety of shades,
including pink, red, or white. The leaves can be green, bronze, or
variegated.
This begonia can be grown almost anywhere as an annual. In USDA
Hardiness Zones 9 – 11, it can be grown as a perennial.
Begonia
semperflorens-cultorum will grow up to 1.5 feet tall, with
a

spread of 1 foot wide. The
leaves are two to four inches in length; blooms can be single or
double. As a house plant, begonias will bloom throughout the winter if
placed in a sunny location.
If you live in a cold climate, you can still enjoy the vibrant blooms
of the begonia plant. Plant containers are ideal for displaying
begonias in the garden or landscape during the summer. Containers can
be easily moved indoors during the cold months for over wintering.
Wax
Begonia Plants - Growing Conditions and Tips for Plant Care
Location and Lighting
Place potted wax begonias in a bright, sunny window (indirect
sunlight). They will also grow well under fluorescent light. If planted
or displayed outdoors during the summer months, choose a location
protected from hot, direct sunlight.
Watering
Water plant thoroughly, water should run out of the drainage hole in
the bottom of the container. Allow soil surface to dry before the next
watering. Remember, over-watering plants can cause root damage.
Humidity
These plants thrive in moderate to high humidity. Place pots on trays
filled with moist pebbles, use a humidifier.
Temperature
To activate flower buds, warm day temperatures of 65 - 75°F / 18 - 24°C
and cool night temperatures of 60°F / 16°C are ideal.
Soil
Use any high quality houseplant potting soil. If planted outdoors,
choose a location with well draining soil.
Fertilizing
Feed every 3-4 weeks (during growing period) with half-diluted water
soluble fertilizer.
Repotting
Re-pot if plant begins to look over-crowded and roots have filled the
current container.
Propagation
Take stem cuttings in spring and root in a fresh potting mix. Keep soil
lightly moist. Cover the whole container and newly planted cuttings
with a plastic bag to hold in humidity. Cover the container with a
plastic bag to hold in humidity.
Display Tips
Wax Begonias can be displayed in containers or hanging baskets. They
can also be planted as a border or mass planting in the landscape.
Outdoor Wax Begonia Care
Begonia plants become available at nurseries starting in spring through
summer. Look for ready-to-plant bedding begonias (usually displayed in
four to six inch containers).
Choose plants with signs of new flower and leaf growth. They can be
planted as borders or ground cover.
Tips
for Planting, Care, and Maintenance
Steps for Planting:
- Choose a location with well draining soil that receives
partial shade.
- Dig a hole that matches the depth of the original container.
- Carefully remove the plant from the container.
- After placing the plant in the hole, fill in the hole with
soil.
- Space plantings twelve inches apart to allow room for
proper growth.
Care and Maintenance:
- Place a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the
plant to conserve moisture and prevent weed infestation.
- Apply fertilizer twice a month during growing season.
- Keep begonia plants evenly moist throughout the growing
season.
Additional
Begonia Plant Information
Begonia
Plant Care - Basic Tips and Information
Plant
Containers - Choosing the Right Containers for Your Plants
and Flowers
Watering
Plants - Tips and Techniques