There are thousands of different types of begonias that grow all over the world. From Wikipedia: Begonia is a genus of perennial flowering plants in the family Begoniaceae. The genus contains more than 1,800 different plant species. Begonias are native to moist subtropical and tropical climates. Some species are commonly grown indoors as ornamental houseplants in cooler climates. However, those of us in northern climates generally grow them outdoors in summertime for their bright colorful flowers.
Glory Lemon’ by Proven Winners
All begonias have separate male and female flowers, their stems are fleshy and the leaves are lopsided. Begonia x hiemalis or elatior begonias aka Rieger begonias are winter flowering. They are a hybrid created by English plant breeder James Veitch in 1883. While they are winter flowering begonias, they can bloom year round. Typically they are grown as annuals and bloom from mid spring to midsummer in our northern climate. They have large mostly double flowers that come in yellow, red, white, pink, and orange. These are fibrous-rooted begonias, which can be used for cuttings.
Environment and Care
Select a location that gets partial shade or filtered sunlight; with morning sun and afternoon shade being the best, especially when it is exceptionally hot. For sunnier locations, try a dark-leaved variety or one that specifies improved sun tolerance. Plant in a location where they will have good air circulation to prevent powdery mildew. They need to be kept moist but not over watered. They do very well in containers but can also be grown in the garden bed after the soil has warmed.
Begonias in mixed container
After Flower Care
Unfortunately, this type of begonia is hard to maintain after they flower in the summer months. Compost them.
Possible problems
Give these plants good air circulation, they can be susceptible to powdery mildew.
‘Apricot’ by Proven Winners
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