Begonia sp. (Begonia)

Begonia is one of the largest genera of flowering plants, belonging to the Begoniaceae family and comprising more than 2,000 species from tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. Begonias vary enormously in habit, foliage, and flowers, ranging from small creeping plants to cane-like shrubs and large-leaved rhizomatous species. Horticulture has expanded this diversity into thousands of cultivars and hybrids, commonly grouped by growth habit and ancestry. Major cultivated groups include cane begonias, often called angel-wing types; rhizomatous begonias; Rex Cultorum begonias grown for spectacular patterned foliage; tuberous begonias with large showy flowers; semperflorens or wax begonias; trailing types; and numerous species and interspecific hybrids. Leaves may be green, silver, bronze, red, purple, spotted, spiraled, or strongly variegated, while flowers range from small and delicate to large, double, rose-like blooms.

Cultivation requirements vary considerably among groups, but most begonias prefer bright filtered light or partial shade, warm conditions, and fertile, well-drained soil or potting mix. Many appreciate consistent moisture and humidity but are vulnerable to rot in waterlogged soil. Tuberous types may require a distinct dormant period, while many cane and rhizomatous begonias remain evergreen in warm conditions. Begonias are widely used as houseplants, container plants, bedding plants, and tropical landscape specimens. Cold tolerance varies greatly, but most tropical species and cultivars require frost protection; many are grown outdoors year-round only in USDA Zones 10-11.