Begonia 'Esther Albertine' (C)
begonia 'Esther Albertine'
An evergreen perennial with cane-like stems, and large, deeply divided green leaves speckled with white. Can grow up to 2.5m high in ideal conditions. Produces large clusters of pale pinkish-white flowers in summer
Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
1–1.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Neutral, AcidColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green White | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Pink | Green White | ||
| Autumn | Green White | |||
| Winter | Green White |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H1BBotanical details
- Family
- Begoniaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Potentially harmful
- Ornamental bulbs - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
- 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
Accepted
- Horticultural Group
- Cane-stem begonias are erect, evergreen perennials with fibrous roots and cane-like stems with asymmetrical, strongly toothed leaves, often strikingly marked, and showy flower clusters in spring or summer
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in light, well-drained potting compost in full light with shade from hot sun. Optimum growing temperatures are 19-23°C (66-73°F). Water moderately when in growth; avoid waterlogging. See begonias: houseplants for more detailed advice
Propagation
Propagate by softwood tip or stem cuttings
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Houseplants
- Patio and container plants
- Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning
Cane begonias can sometimes shed lower leaves; to keep foliage evenly bushy, cut back overlong canes to 2 or 3 buds in spring
Pests
May be susceptible to caterpillars, mealybugs, mites, thrips, vine weevils and aphids
Diseases
May be susceptible to grey moulds, 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.