Begonia x semperflorens-cultorum
Common Names: wax begonia
Family: Begoniaceae (begonia Family)
Perennial Annual Easy to grow - great for beginners! Can be Grown in
Containers Flowers
Description
The popular wax begonia is available in a galaxy of varieties
representing a wide spectrum of flower and leaf colors. To be
precise there is actually a universe of begonias of over 1300
species and hundreds more hybrids. Botanists categorize these into
several groups based on growth and root characteristics. The wax
begonias are representative of the Semperflorens Group. These tender
herbaceous perennials have succulent stems and, depending on the
variety, form attractive mounds from 6-18 in (15-46 cm) in height.
Leaves tend to be glossy ovals and come in a range of colors: shades
of green, mahogany, bronze, red, as well as variegated patterns.
Flowers may be single or double with colors ranging from red to pink
to rose to white. The bronze-leaved Cocktail series is a dwarf
hybrid that is great for edging (I especially like the red flowered
'Vodka').
Location
Wax begonia is native to Brazil. This plant has been popular in
gardens since the Victorian era.
white begonia
This white flowering variety of wax begonia brightens up a dry shady
area.
Culture
Wax begonias like good garden soil that is high in organic matter
that will retain moisture keeping the soil cool. If plants become
scraggly pinch the stems back to encourage compact growth.
Light: Most varieties prefer bright sun but will tolerate some
shade. Some varieties have been developed especially for shady
areas.
Moisture: Wax begonias require regular watering to look their best
but will survive periods of drought.
Hardiness: USDA Zones 9 - 11. This tender perennial is usually
cultivated outside this range as an annual.
Propagation: By cuttings which root easily. This is another great
plant for gardeners on a budget. Bring plants indoors for the
winter. In spring make cuttings - small pieces of stem will root to
form nice plants in a few weeks. These are planted outside, about 10
in (25 cm) apart) when danger of frost has past.
Usage
Wax begonia is a favorite bedding plant - use them to create masses
of color in low beds and borders and individually in container
gardens. Many of the dwarf varieties only grow to 6 in (15 cm) and
are perfect for edging. Mix shade tolerant varieties with ferns and
impatiens.
Features
The many wax begonia varieties provide nonstop flowers in a palette
of colors that combine dramatically with beautiful leaf shades and
textures. Relatively pest free, this plant is easy to propagate and
is an inexpensive way to bring continuous color to the summer
garden. |
