Bedding Begonia
Begonia (beh-GO-nee-ah)
Wax begonias are a very popular member of the Begoniaceae (begonia) family, often used as an annual bedding plant or as a tender, herbaceous perennial grown in containers and brought indoors for the winter. Wax begonias are also known Semperflorens begonias, as they are a group of hybrids derived from Begonia cucullata (syn. B. semperflorens ) and other closely related South American species that have shown some cold hardiness in USDA zones 8-10. Wax begonia is a compact, mounded, succulent and fibrous-rooted plant with fleshy stems and green to bronze leaves. Loose clusters of cymes in leaf axils, single or double and in various colors, bloom from spring to frost. Generally requiring little maintenance, plants mature in size to around 6 to 12 inches high with a similar spread. Once established, wax begonias adapt to a wide range of light conditions, though they do require moderately humus-rich, well-drained moist soils. Bronze-leaved varieties tend to do better in sunnier locations. Mulch well in the summer to protect roots, and water well. This plant resists browsing by deer and rabbits and is tolerant of hot summer temperatures, some mild drought and heavy shade. To propagate, sow seeds in January in gentle heat and do not cover with compost, or take leaf or stem cuttings. Container plants may be cut back in the fall and overwintered indoors in a cool location with reduced watering. Use wax begonia in patio containers, in window boxes, planted along walkways or woodland edges or in shady locations. These plants are also a good addition to pollinator and drought-resistant gardens, in containers and window boxes and massed in borders. Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Susceptible to mealybugs and thrips, rot, and fungal diseases. Some cultivars have shown excellent resistance to pythium root rot. VIDEO Created by Elisabeth Meyer for "Annuals, Perennials, Vines, and Groundcovers," a plant identification course developed in partnership with Longwood Gardens. More information on Begonia .
Source: NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox ↗ NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox, 60 attributes.