Botanical family: Begoniaceae

Begonia ampla

The Begonia ampla is an eye-catching epiphyte with thick creeping stems and large, very broadly ovate leaves. This small shrub is indigenous to equatorial Africa and grows to a height of 2-5 feet when mature. As it prefers cooler temperatures, this makes it an excellent addition to gardens in cooler parts of the world.

When it comes to optimal growth, the Begonia ampla needs a well-draining soil mixture containing a combination of bark, cocopeat, and perlite with semi-shade or light shade and regular watering in the summer and moderate water in the winter.

Between late spring and summer, its clusters of delicate, lightly scented flowers will appear in gorgeous shades of pink, off-white and white - rising above the leaves on the stem, creating a truly captivating sight. Repotting should be done every 1-2 years to ensure that the potting mix remains in good condition. Furthermore, a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer should be applied every 2 weeks during the growing season.

Despite being a perennial, the Begonia ampla is USDA hardy only in zones 9-11 and therefore should be kept indoors in cooler climates and protected from temperatures below freezing. The soil should be kept lightly moist but not wet in order to prevent root rot caused by standing water. During winter dormancy, ensure that all water is withheld until the following spring.

Begonia bipinnatifida

Begonia bipinnatifida offers a very unique finely textured foliage that is dark green with a deep red to almost maroon coloration on the stems and underside of the leaves. Each division of the pinnate leaf is also pinnate: this gives the leaves a fern-like appearance. This plant prefers a warm, humid environment and occasionally produces bright pink flowers.

It does not appreciate cold water, nor does it like water to be constantly on its leaves. Begonia bipinnatifida plants are recommended to be grown in contained atmosphere (terrarium) under horticultural fluorescent lights. They require particularly bright light, therefore they need to be closed to the centre of the light where light levels are most intense.

Alternatively, plants grown under natural sunlight on a windowsill will often perform best when provided with a south facing position in winter and est-facing one in summer.

Begonia boliviensis

The cultivar, Begonia boliviensis 'Bonfire' is widely available commercially and can be used in containers, in hanging baskets and as a landscape plant.

Begonia brevirimosa

Its large, metallic-looking leaves sport bright-pink variegation that demands attention. Each leaf has a glossy, bronze-green background, with pink streaks that almost look painted on.

It likes bright light, but not much direct sun, which may burn the leaves. Like most Begonias, it prefers moist, fertile soil that is well-draining.

Begonia carolineifolia

It is a large shrub that can reach 5-10 feet tall, or you can keep it as a small shrub at 2-5 feet. This Begonia thrives in semi-shade, and should be given regular water to keep the foliage in full and glossy form.

This tropical plant has bright pink flowers that reach up to 6 inches wide and bloom in the summer months. The foliage is ornamental and grows to be around 4 inches wide. It is a great choice for both gardeners and flower enthusiasts alike.

Begonia carolineifolia can be grown in USDA Zone 9-11 and is an excellent container plant. During summer months, the container should be kept in a shaded area and watered regularly. During winter months, the container should be kept in a heated space, and waterings should be slightly less frequent. This Begonia is an easy-going houseplant, and will need minimal pruning and occasional fertilizing.

Overall, Begonia carolineifolia is an easy-care and beautiful houseplant that is an excellent choice for any gardener or flower lover. With its bright pink flowers and ornamental foliage, this Begonia is sure to add beauty and a touch of the tropics to any home.

Begonia coccinea

Begonia coccinea is a small shrub that typically grows 2-5 feet with an upright habit. They are native to Brazil and are a jungle plant that likes bright shade or semi-shade. This species usually looks more open and seeding and develops into a whorl of cane branches over time. In general, it prefers regular water and protects it from cold in the winter. They love soil that is constantly moist and likes good air circulation and benefits with a trim to keep its shape and encourage it to branch out and bush up. Angel wing begonias are a great ornamental plant to have year round. The foliage is olive green and the undersides of the leaves are reddish-brown. There are also many varieties of begonias to choose from, many of which have leaves edged in pink or even white. They produce clusters of bright pink to light pink flowers in the spring and summer, making it an attractive and multi-seasonal plant for your garden.

Grown in USDA hardiness zones 9-11, Angel wing begonias can generally withstand a light frost when mature, but for best results in cold regions, it's advisable to grow them in pots. The begonia enjoys the typical indoor environment of temperatures between 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit and 60% humidity. Place it near east or west-facing windows, as too much direct sunlight can damage the foliage. Water on a weekly basis, making sure the soil is evenly moist, and then allow it to dry out before re-watering. Fertilize every six weeks with a liquid fertilizer. Additionally, you will need to mist the Begonia at least once a week to mimic its natural environment.

Begonia corallina

Begonia corallina (Cane Begonia) is a shrub-like plant that is native to Brazil and is evergreen in warm climates. The plant prefers a semi-shade location with regular water to prevent the leaves from scorching in full sun. Humid conditions are also ideal for cane begonia. The oval-shaped leaves of the plant are attractive, with red edges and a ribbed texture. The color of the leaves can range from deep green to purplish bronze, depending on the soil, light, and other conditions.

The most striking feature of the cane begonia is the clusters of small pink flowers that dot the foliage from summer to fall. The blooms contrast beautifully with the foliage and can last for weeks. A single cane begonia can produce hundreds of flowers.

In regions where temperatures do not dip below freezing, Begonia corallina can be grown outdoors. It thrives in USDA Hardiness zones 9-11 and prefers well-drained soil. The plant should be watered regularly to keep the soil evenly moist during the spring through fall months. Fertilizing with an all-purpose fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season is also recommended.

In colder climates, Begonia corallina is commonly grown indoors as a houseplant. The best results can be achieved by growing the plant in a potting soil mixed with perlite and keeping it in a warm, indirect light location. Watering should be done when the soil surface begins to feel dry to the touch, and the plant should be fertilized twice a month during growing period with a liquid houseplant fertilizer. Moving the plant outdoors during the summer months is recommended.

Begonia corallina is a cane type begonia that gets its name from its stems, which grow tall and woody with prominent bamboo-like joints. It is also one of the easiest begonia species to grow and a wonderful addition to any home or garden with its beautiful foliage and flowers.

Begonia listada

Each leaf features a bright green stripe that dissects the center of the velvet dark green leaves. The underside of each leaf is a rich mahogany color.

Begonia listada is well suited to a bright position, free from direct sunlight.

Begonia longirostris

Begonia maculata

Begonia maculata is an upright cane-type with large, dark green leaves that look like bat wings with pronounced silver dots.