Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | White | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H1BBotanical details
- Family
- Begoniaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Potentially harmful
- Ornamental bulbs - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Ornamental bulbs - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
- Genus
Begonia can be annuals, evergreen or deciduous perennials or shrubs, with fibrous, tuberous or rhizomatous roots and usually asymmetrical leaves, often strikingly patterned, and small or large flowers, both male and female in the same cluster
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- China
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in moist but well-drained, neutral to slightly acid potting compost, in full light with shade from hot sun. Water moderately when in growth, ideally by immersing pots and allowing to drain, as this helps to prevent waterlogging. This species appreciates humidity. See begonias: houseplants for more detailed advice
Propagation
Propagate by seed, leaf cuttings or root cuttings (sections of rhizome)
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Houseplants
- Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
May be susceptible to caterpillars, mealybugs, mites, thrips, vine weevil and aphids
Diseases
May be susceptible to grey moulds (botrytis), powdery mildews and stem rot
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.