Bedding Begonia Begonia (Semperflorens-Cultorum Group)

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.

The American Begonia Society has created a number of non-scientific categories for classifying Begonias including semperflorens. Begonia x Semperflorens-Cultorum hybrids are derived from a closely related group of South American species that have shown some cold hardiness in USDA zones 8-10. 

Begonia semperflorens, or Wax Begonia, is a very popular member of the Begonia family often used as an annual bedding plant or as a tender, herbaceous perennial grown in containers and brought indoors for the winter. It is a compact, mounded, succulent, and fibrous-rooted plant with fleshy stems and green to bronze leaves. When planted outdoors, it does best in full sun to partial shade in moderately humus rich, well-drained moist soils. Bronze-leafed varieties tend to do better in full sun. Space 6-12 in. apart and plant in mass along borders or in small spaces. Mulch well in the summer to protect roots, and water well. Container plants may be cut back in fall and overwintered indoors in a cool location with reduced watering.  

This plant is seldom damaged by deer and tolerates hot summers, 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.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Susceptible to mealy bugs and thrips, rot, and fungal diseases.

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