Begonias – Tropical Floral Beauty for the Home and Garden

Whether as seasonal planting for the balcony, in a colorful summer bed, in a hanging basket on the terrace, or even as a houseplant indoors – begonias are versatile floral beauties that can be used everywhere.

The genus Begonia consists of 900 species and additional hybrids and crosses. Most of them originate from tropical forests. Some form tubers and are known as tuberous begonias. With these begonias, you can bring color into your garden life.

Only a few flowering plants like shade. However, begonias grow in their tropical homelands in Africa, America, and Asia, primarily on forest floors, and are accustomed to the darkness. It can be difficult to make shady gardens bloom, but with begonias, it's no problem! The name "crooked leaf" comes from the asymmetrical growth of its petals. But it's not just the petals that attract attention. The decorative foliage, with its striking patterns, greatly contributes to the ornamental value of the tuberous begonia.

In gardens here, tuberous begonias are most commonly found. They resulted from the crossing of tuber-forming species from South America. They come in various forms, including large-flowered varieties with simple, curly, or frilled petals, either half or fully double. Hanging tuberous begonias are also very popular and are perfect for decorating balconies and terraces in hanging baskets. These begonias belong to the Pendula group. On the other hand, Multiflora begonias are best recognized by their compact growth and full floral display in yellow, red, pink, or white. With these begonias, you can also choose between single or double flowers.

Begonias thrive best in a protected, but airy and bright spot. Due to the living conditions in their native countries, they also tolerate semi-shady and shady locations. They should ideally be exposed to the morning and evening sun, as they cannot tolerate the intense midday sun. Indoors, north and east-facing windows are ideal, although supplemental grow lights may be needed for healthy growth. Even though begonias aren't very demanding, they are thirsty plants. It is advisable to water them two to three times a week, but avoid waterlogging. During winter, they do not need water but should be kept slightly moist. Fertilizing in spring and summer is helpful, but it should be reduced in autumn and completely stopped in winter.