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Begonia /bəˈɡoʊni.ə/

Common name: Begonia

Begonia is one of the largest genera of flowering plants, with more than 2,000 species native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, Africa, and Asia. Grown for their showy, often asymmetrical leaves and bright flowers, begonias range from fibrous and rhizomatous houseplants to tuberous bedding plants.

Care summary

Sun Bright indirect light to partial shade
Water Keep lightly moist; never soggy
Soil Rich, loose, well-draining mix
Hardiness Zones 10–11 (often grown as annuals)
Mature height 15–60 cm (6–24 in), depending on type
Pet safe Toxic to cats and dogs if ingested

Fun facts

  • With over 2,000 species, Begonia is one of the ten largest genera of flowering plants.
  • Nearly all begonia leaves are asymmetric — one side of the blade is visibly larger than the other.
  • The genus is named after Michel Bégon, a 17th-century French administrator and plant patron.
  • Begonias have separate male and female flowers on the same plant, often blooming side by side.

The Begonia Patch

1 on xylery

The Clorophyller Priya New leaf unfurled this morning! The Clorophyller Priya Propagation attempt #3, wish us luck. The Clorophyller Priya Fresh moss pole installed, climbing already.
Browse all 1 plants

Common problems

    • Let soil surface dry between waterings
    • Grow in pots with drainage holes
    • Cut away and discard mushy stems
    • Improve airflow around crowded plants
    • Avoid wetting foliage when watering
    • Apply sulfur fungicide at first sign
    • Dab insects with rubbing alcohol
    • Rinse plants under a firm spray
    • Isolate infested plants from others
    • Move plants to brighter indirect light
    • Pinch stem tips to encourage branching