Begonia (Semperflorens-Cultorum Group)

Wax begonias are a very popular member of the Begoniaceae (begonia) family, often used as an annual bedding plant or as a tender, herbaceous perennial grown in containers and brought indoors for the winter.  Wax begonias are of the Semperflorens-Cultorum hybrid group and are derived from a closely related group of South American species that have shown some cold hardiness in USDA zones 8-10. 

Begoniaceae is a large, flowering plant family, the name of which honors Michael Begon (1638-1710), Governor of French Canada, and includes about 1500 different species and hundreds of hybrids. Mature begonia plants range in size from a few inches high to over 12 inches high, and the flowers, foliage colors, and sizes are very diverse.

Wax begonia is a compact, mounded, succulent, and fibrous-rooted plant with fleshy stems and green to bronze leaves. Loose clusters of cymes in leaf axils, single or double and in various colors, bloom from spring to frost. Generally requiring little maintenance, plants mature in size to around 6 to 12 inches high with a similar spread. Once established, wax begonias adapt to a wide range of light conditions, though they do require moderately humus rich, well-drained moist soils. Bronze-leaved varieties tend to do better in sunnier locations. Mulch well in the summer to protect roots, and water well. This plant resists browsing by deer and rabbits and is tolerant of hot summer temperatures, some mild drought, and heavy shade. 

To propagate, sow seeds in January in gentle heat and do not cover with compost, or take leaf or stem cuttings. Container plants may be cut back in fall and overwintered indoors in a cool location with reduced watering.

Use wax begonia in patio containers, in window boxes, planted along walkways or woodland edges, or in shady locations.  These plants are also a good addition to pollinator and drought-resistant gardens, in containers and window boxes, and massed in borders.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:

Susceptible to mealy bugs and thrips, rot, and fungal diseases. Some cultivars have shown excellent resistance to pythium root rot. See Phytophthora Root and Crown Rot in the Landscape.

VIDEO Created by Elisabeth Meyer for "Annuals, Perennials, Vines, and Groundcovers" a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens.