Information & Facts on Begonias

The Begoniaceae, or begonia genus, is a family of tropical and subtropical plants that includes more than 1,000 different species. Their foliage and flowers vary in appearance depending on the species and cultivar.

Types

• Rex begonias are cultivated for their foliage. Their leaves range from lavender to silver, deep maroon and pink. Wax begonias, which are cultivated for their blossoms, have heart-shaped green or reddish leaves and produce red, pink, white or rose-colored blossoms, while tuberous begonias are available in a trailing or upright form. Their blossoms range in color from orange to rose or white. Many species range in size between 8 and 24 inches.

Cultivation

• Begonias prefer well-drained, nutrient-rich soil, moderate amounts of fertilizer and partial sunlight. They need bright light if they are to produce abundant blossoms, according to the Clemson Cooperative Extension, but some cultivars should not be exposed to intense light because their foliage will burn. Begonias are attractive in hanging baskets or window boxes, as well as in flower beds, terrariums or gardens

Considerations

• Begonias are susceptible to a number of different diseases such as powdery mildew, pythium stem and root rot and botrytis blight, as well as bacterial leaf spot, southern blight and Rhizoctonia aerial blight. Insects such as caterpillars, aphids, scale insects, mealy bugs, spider mites and slugs also feed on begonia plants.