Begonia Varieties: A Comprehensive Guide
Begonias are a popular choice for gardeners looking to add color and beauty to their outdoor spaces. With over 1,800 species and an endless array of hybrids, begonias offer a wide range of colors, shapes, and sizes to suit any garden style. In this article, we will explore some of the most popular begonia varieties and provide tips on how to care for these beautiful plants.
Rex Begonias
Rex begonias are known for their stunning foliage, which comes in a variety of vibrant colors and patterns. These begonias are grown primarily for their leaves, as their flowers are small and not particularly showy. Rex begonias prefer bright, indirect light and moist, well-draining soil. They are sensitive to overwatering, so it’s important to let the soil dry out slightly between waterings. Rex begonias are popular houseplants and are often grown in terrariums or as part of a mixed container garden.
Tuberous Begonias
Tuberous begonias are prized for their large, showy flowers, which come in a wide range of colors including red, pink, orange, and yellow. These begonias are typically grown from tubers, which should be planted in the spring once the danger of frost has passed. Tuberous begonias prefer partial shade and well-draining soil. They should be watered regularly, but care should be taken not to overwater, as this can cause the tubers to rot. Tuberous begonias are often used in hanging baskets and containers, where their trailing habit can be fully appreciated.
Cane Begonias
Cane begonias, also known as angel wing begonias, are characterized by their thick, bamboo-like stems and large, wing-shaped leaves. These begonias produce clusters of small, delicate flowers in shades of pink, red, or white. Cane begonias prefer bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. They should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Cane begonias are popular houseplants and can be pruned to maintain a compact, bushy shape.
Fibrous Begonias
Fibrous begonias are among the most common and widely grown begonia varieties. These begonias are prized for their abundance of small, waxy flowers, which come in a wide range of colors including white, pink, red, and orange. Fibrous begonias are easy to grow and are well-suited to a variety of growing conditions. They prefer bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. Fibrous begonias should be watered regularly, but care should be taken not to overwater, as this can cause the roots to rot. Fibrous begonias are versatile plants that can be used in beds, borders, containers, and hanging baskets.
Rex-Cultorum Begonias
Rex-cultorum begonias are a hybrid variety that combines the stunning foliage of rex begonias with the large, showy flowers of tuberous begonias. These begonias come in a wide range of colors and patterns, making them a popular choice for gardeners looking to add a splash of color to their outdoor spaces. Rex-cultorum begonias prefer bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. They should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Rex-cultorum begonias are versatile plants that can be used in beds, borders, containers, and hanging baskets.
Caring for Begonias
Regardless of the variety, begonias have similar care requirements. They prefer bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. Begonias should be watered regularly, but care should be taken not to overwater, as this can cause root rot. Fertilize begonias every 4-6 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Remove spent flowers to encourage continued blooming and pinch back leggy growth to promote a bushier habit. Protect begonias from drafts, extreme temperatures, and pests such as aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites.
In Conclusion
Begonias are a versatile and beautiful addition to any garden. With their wide range of colors, shapes, and sizes, there is a begonia variety to suit every taste and garden style. Whether you prefer the stunning foliage of rex begonias, the showy flowers of tuberous begonias, or the trailing habit of cane begonias, there is a begonia for you. By following a few simple care tips, you can enjoy these stunning plants in your garden or home for years to come.