Begonias are one of the most versatile and visually striking plants and are a top choice for indoor and outdoor gardeners. With beautiful foliage, bright flowers, and low-maintenance needs, begonias can add charm to any place instantly. There are more than 1,800 species and countless hybrids, so it may be difficult to know what variety to grow. Below are some popular types of begonias that also do well in the home and garden.
1. Rex Begonias
Rex begonias are grown for their spectacular foliage, not their blooms. The leaves of rex begonias have beautiful patterns that often include silvers, greens, burgundies, and purples. Rex begonias make great houseplants in bright indirect light with high humidity. They add an artistic touch to a tabletop, a shelf, or an area on a shaded patio.
2. Tuberous Begonias
If you want to attract attention through color and flowers, tuberous begonias are a great way to go. They have large, rose-like flowers that can have brilliant colors from hot colors to soft pastels. These flowers excel in containers, hanging baskets, and garden beds with lots of flowers over the summer. Tuberous begonias require drainage and moisture in the soil to reach their maximum potential!
3. Cane Begonias
Cane Begonias (begonia tuberhybrida), commonly dubbed "angel wing begonias" for the distinct shape of their leaves, are beautiful plants that grow tall with bamboo-like stems and sometimes speckled leaves. Many cane begonia varieties also produce sweet little clusters of pink, red or white flowers. Equipped with great adaptability to both indoor and outdoor environments, they appeal to novice and experienced gardeners alike.
4. Wax Begonias
Wax begonias are compact, durable, and one of the most valued garden bedding plants. They are plants that have shiny, rounded leaves that just keep building, offering a dependable source of color in our gardens during the entire growing season. They are plants tolerant to sun and shade, if you find wax begonias inside borders, window boxes, or ornamental pots.
5. Rhizomatous Begonias
Rhizomatous begonias are cultivated predominantly for their unusual foliage, which is found in an extraordinary array of shapes, textures, and patterns. In light of their creeping rhizomes, they can spread horizontally, which makes them excellent ground cover plants in shaded areas. They also do well, potentially, in indoor growing conditions where humidity is adequate.
6. Specialty Hybrids
Hybrid varieties have become quite popular due to their ornamental appeal and durability. Some have complex patterns on their foliage while others constantly flower in all seasons. A prime example is the moonlight butterfly begonia with its bright patterned leaves resembling butterfly wings, it is a gem for collectors.
Caring for Begonias
Begonias, no matter what variety, typically prefer bright, indirect light, evenly moist but well-drained soil, and moderate to high humidity. The frequent mistake made by gardeners is overwatering. When watering, let the surface of the soil dry slightly between waterings. Fertilize when the plant is actively growing for abundant foliage and flowering.
Conclusion
From the lush leaves of rex begonias, to the brilliant flowers of tuberous begonias, there are endless possibilities for beautifying your home and garden using begonias. Begonias have the potential to live throughout the year with the right care and provide you with color, texture, and natural beauty! Begonias, whether you are an expert gardener or laid-back novice, are an excellent option to use to enhance your home or garden with vibrancy and sophistication.
