How to Care for Angel Wing Begonia

A hybrid, the angel wing begonia is a cross between a Begonia coccinea and Begonia aconitifolia. The angel wing begonia produces green and white variegated foliage. Depending on the variety, the angel wing begonia will also develop clusters of pink, red or orange blooms. This heat-loving plant has no tolerance for cold and prefers USDA hardiness zones 10a through 11. Preferring sun or partial shade, the angel wing begonia is a bold statement in the garden landscape. Care is minimal if planted in well-drained soil with a pH between 6.1 and 7.5.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

things you’ll need:

• Soil testing kit
• Soaker hose
• Mulch
• Fertilizer

1. Test the soil pH prior to planting the begonias with a soil test kit. If your soil does not meet the requirements, amend with lime for a pH below 6.1 or peat moss for a soil pH above 7.5. Check the package instructions for allocation amounts and amending methods.
2. Dig holes for the begonias comparable to the size of the root ball. Space holes approximately 24 inches apart. Remove the begonias from their nursery containers, and deposit one plant in the center of each hole. Backfill the holes and pat the soil to remove air pockets.
3. Water the plants generously after planting. Run a soaker hose around the planting area, and soak the soil to a depth of 1 inch. Allow the top layer of soil to dry out in between waterings. Water the angel wings at least once per week if it doesn’t rain.
4. Apply a layer of mulch around the angel wings to improve water retention and reduce weed growth. A 3- to 4-inch layer of pine bark or straw will also protect the roots of the plant from the summer sun and unexpected cold snaps.
5. Feed the begonias a dose of high-nitrogen fertilizer. Check the package labeling for allocation amounts and time frames. Most begonia plants appreciate a dose of fertilizer in the spring.

Tips & Warnings

• Pinch off spent blooms with your fingertips. Removing dead blooms will encourage new growth.

• The angel wing begonia also functions well as a houseplant. Fill 6-inch pots filled with organic potting soil. As houseplants, they require medium light conditions, a room temperature of 65 degrees F or above and moist soil.

• Do not overwater the angel wings. Standing water can cause the roots to develop root rot. If the soil feels moist at a 1-inch depth, refrain from adding more water. Check the soil again in a few days.