Begonia

Begonia,

Begonias are a massive and diverse genus of tropical and subtropical plants, categorized broadly by their growth habit: Rhizomatous (grown for foliage), Fibrous (grown for flowers, like Wax Begonias), and Tuberous (grown for showy seasonal blooms). They are native to Central and South America, Africa, and Asia. They feature asymmetrical leaves and produce delicate, often small, flowers. The plant does flower, but care varies greatly based on the specific type. Popular cultivated groups include Rex Begonias, Cane Begonias (like Angel Wing), and Begonia semperflorens (Wax Begonia).

Care Guide

LIGHT

  • Generally prefers bright, indirect light. East or West-facing windows are often ideal.
  • Foliage types (like Rex Begonias) prefer slightly less intense light to maintain their vibrant colors and prevent burning.
  • Flowering types (like Wax Begonias) require brighter light for abundant blooms.

WATER

  • Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out between waterings, but do not let them fully dry out.
  • They are highly susceptible to root rot, so never overwater.
  • Avoid getting water on the leaves of fuzzy or textured types (like Rex Begonias) to prevent powdery mildew or spotting.
  • Water frequency is greatly reduced in winter.

SOIL

  • Requires a light, fluffy, and highly well-draining potting mix.
  • A mix of potting soil, perlite, and orchid bark works well to prevent compaction and ensure drainage.

GROWTH HABIT

  • Ideal conditions: Warm temperatures (65-75F), high humidity (50% or more), and excellent air circulation.
  • Growth rate & size: Growth rate is moderate to fast during the growing season. Size and form vary drastically from compact clumping to tall, cane-like habits.

PROPAGATING

  • Propagates easily, often using methods specific to the type.
  • Cane types root easily from stem cuttings in water or soil.
  • Rhizomatous types (Rex) can be propagated from leaf cuttings or pieces of the rhizome placed on moist soil.

PRUNING

  • Pruning is essential to maintain shape and encourage bushiness.
  • Pinch back stem tips to encourage branching on cane and fibrous types.
  • Remove spent flowers (deadhead) and dead or yellowing leaves near the base.

REPOTTING

  • Repot when root-bound, usually every 1-2 years.
  • Most Begonias prefer to be slightly under-potted.
  • Repot in spring or early summer using a pot only slightly larger than the previous one.

FERTILIZING

  • Feed regularly during the spring and summer growing season (every 2-4 weeks).
  • Use a balanced, diluted liquid houseplant fertilizer.
  • Tuberous and fibrous types benefit from a fertilizer slightly higher in phosphorus to encourage blooms.

FLOWERING

  • All types flower, but the flowers can be small (Wax Begonia) or large and showy (Tuberous Begonia).
  • The flowers are monoecious (separate male and female flowers on the same plant).
  • Consistent light and fertilizer are needed for abundant blooms.

TOXICITY

  • Toxic to humans and pets. The roots and tubers are the most toxic part, causing oral irritation, difficulty swallowing, and vomiting if ingested.

PRO TIPS

  • Good air circulation is vital to prevent powdery mildew, which Begonias are highly susceptible to.
  • Grouping them with other plants helps increase humidity.
  • Avoid abrupt changes in temperature or light, which can cause leaf drop.

Variability in Care

Most varieties of this plant follow the standard care above, but some require adjustments.

Rhizomatous Begonias

Examples: Rex Begonias, Iron Cross Begonia

  • Grown primarily for their intricate and colorful foliage, not for flowers.
  • Need very high humidity and are prone to powdery mildew if air circulation is poor.
  • Require a shallow pot as their rhizomes grow along the surface of the soil.

Cane Begonias

Examples: Angel Wing Begonia, Dragon Wing Begonia

  • Have upright, bamboo-like stems with distinct nodes.
  • Require regular pinching and pruning to prevent them from becoming leggy.
  • Prefer brighter light than Rex Begonias and are heavy feeders when actively growing.

Tuberous Begonias

Examples: Hanging Basket Begonias, Large-flowered Patio Begonias

  • Grown from a tuber and often go through a period of winter dormancy, where the foliage dies back.
  • During dormancy, cease watering and keep the tuber cool and dry until spring.
  • Require a fertilizer high in phosphorus for best flower production.

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