Begonias are indigenous to tropical and subtropical regions; no species is native to the United States. They occur primarily in Central and South America, Asia, and sub-Saharan Africa. The natural habitat of many begonias are moist, cool forests and tropical rainforests, but some begonias are adapted to dryer climates.

How do begonias grow in the wild?

They are pantropic plants which means they are found naturally in tropical and subtropical regions around the world, except Australia (1). Begonias are terrestrial plants. In the wild, they can either grow in stems, rhizomes, or in tubers.

Are begonias indigenous to South Africa?

The begonia family, Begoniaceae, occurs in tropical and sub-tropical areas, with most species in America (2 genera and over 900 species). In southern Africa there is one genus, Begonia, with five indigenous species: Begonia dregei, B. homonyma, B. geranioides, B.

Do begonias grow in Australia?

Bedding begonias (Begonia semperflorens) – these are small, sun hardy plants that can be grown anywhere in Australia. They have shiny green or bronze coloured waxy leaves and come with white, red or pink flowers. They flower continuously and look best when mass planted in borders or containers.

Where do begonias grow best?

Begonias grow well in dappled or partial shade – avoid south-facing spots as the foliage can burn in direct sunlight. If you’re growing begonias in a greenhouse, shading may be required. Tuberous begonias are ideal for growing in pots and hanging baskets.

How many species of begonia are there?

1,000 species

begonia, (genus Begonia), any of about 1,000 species of mostly rather succulent plants in the family Begoniaceae, many with colourful flowers or leaves and used as pot plants indoors or as garden plants. They are from the tropics and subtropics.

What do begonias symbolize?

Begonias are traditionally symbolic of uniqueness, harmony, gratitude, or caution. In addition, begonias of different colors come with their own importance. These subtropical flowers can be given on an anniversary, as a congratulatory gift, or as a way to say “thank you” to someone.

Where do begonias grow in South Africa?

At a glance. SOIL: Moisture-retaining, well-drained, hummus-rich soil. LIGHT: Begonias require bright or dappled shade; some take morning sun. In deep shade they become leggy and less floriferous.

Can you plant begonias in autumn?

Most tuberous begonias naturally go dormant during late fall months, and they need this downtime to rest. For the best chance at saving the tubers in your garden, transplant them into pots and bring them indoors in fall before frost.

Does a begonia need full sun?

Most begonias grow best in part shade (4 to 6 hours of direct morning sun a day), or filtered sun (as through trees). Most will tolerate full shade (no direct or filtered sun), but won’t be as dense and usually have fewer flowers. A few grow in full sun. They prefer moist, but not soggy, soils.

Are all begonias tuberous?

Any begonias that do not have tubers or rhizomes fall into the third general category of fibrous-rooted varieties. These have ordinary root systems and include many varieties commonly used as summer bedding plants. All begonias with glossy leaves are of this “wax leaf” begonia type.

Are begonias houseplants?

Begonias are a popular houseplant. Some varieties of begonia houseplants are grown for their flowers while others are grown for their striking foliage. Growing begonias as houseplants only requires a little bit of knowledge in order to keep them looking their very best indoors.

Do begonias come back every year UK?

Although often sold as half-hardy annuals, most Begonias varieties are actually perennials. However, they are not at all frost hardy. The following article will give you advice on bedding begonias over-winter within the UK.

What does a tuberous begonia look like?

A begonia tuber is shaped like a little brown bowl. Sprouts emerge from inside the cupped area and roots form on all sides of the tuber. For best results, encourage the tubers to sprout before planting them in pots or in the garden. Put them in a warm (70°F) area with indirect light.

Can I leave begonias in pots over winter UK?

Can you overwinter begonias in pots? Yes, you can overwinter begonias in pots. Fibrous types can be kept as a houseplant, while tuberous varieties should be stored dormant in a cool, dark location. Overwintering begonias is easy, and it’s a great way to save your favorite varieties every year.

What do you do with begonias in the winter?

Cut back begonia stems to three or four inches above the tuber in fall as you prepare to overwinter them. Do this for tuberous begonias when you bring them into a frost-free space for winter. The stems of hardy begonias, will die back naturally if you’re leaving them outside for winter under a mulch.

Which begonias are tuberous?

Tuberous Begonia

Do begonias come back year after year?

Begonias are annuals, so they won’t grow back each year. Therefore, each year you will have to replant them, typically in mid spring. Begonias don’t handle cold temperatures and frost well, so wait until at least one week after the final frost of winter to plant them.