BOTANICAL NAME:  Begonia hybrid
 

FAMILY:  Begoniaceae

 

HABIT:  Red or pink blooms from May to frost. Frost-tender perennial for shade to part shade. It has medium water requirements and is tolerant of most soils. Height: 1 to 1.5 feet. Spread: 1 to 1.5 feet.

 

CULTURE:  Zones: 10 to 11 (Used as an annual in colder climates). It is noted for its tolerance to hot and humid summers. It grows easily in average to moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soils in full sun to full shade. Will tolerate some short periods of drought. Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost date, purchase starter plants or take cuttings from overwintered plants. Set plants out after last frost date. Container plants may be cut back in fall and overwintered indoors a cool location with reduced watering. Propagation from seed can be difficult due to the small size of the seed. Seed should not be sown directly in the garden.

PROBLEMS:  No serious insect or disease problems. Susceptible to bacterial leaf spot, powdery mildew, blight and stem/crown rots. Watch for mealybugs and thrips.

 

USES:  Hanging baskets, window boxes, containers or bedding areas. Good plant for accent or edging in shade gardens. This is the primary summer flowering plant that Judy and I use in our shady gardens.