Begonias are prized for their vibrant blooms, varied foliage, and versatility in garden and container settings. From compact bedding varieties to trailing tuberous hybrids, there’s a begonia to suit every gardener’s taste and space. Let’s explore seven enticing begonia varieties to elevate your outdoor spaces.
‘Bedding’ Begonia
The ‘Bedding’ Begonia, belonging to the wax begonia category, boasts fibrous roots and a compact yet spreading growth habit. Ideal for use as focal points in flowering containers, these begonias offer a charming display with their short stature and expansive spread of up to 18 to 24 inches.
‘Dusty Rose’
The ‘Dusty Rose’ begonia stands out with its exquisite frilly rose-colored flowers, making it a captivating addition to any garden or container arrangement. Developed as a trademarked variety, this tuberous hybrid blooms from mid-spring to mid-fall, adding a touch of elegance to outdoor spaces.
‘Richmond’ Begonia
The ‘Richmond’ begonia showcases a distinctive reddish tone on the undersides of its leaves, lending it a unique appeal, particularly in hanging baskets. As a fibrous-rooted variety, ‘Richmond’ thrives with moderate sunlight, making it a versatile choice for various garden settings.
‘Mocca Yellow’
The ‘Mocca Yellow’ begonia, part of the trademarked Nonstop series from Proven Winners, is renowned for its resilience in regions with hot summers. Like most tuberous begonias, ‘Mocca Yellow’ appreciates moderation in light, water, and fertilizer, ensuring lush growth and vibrant blooms.
Series Begonias
Series begonias, characterized by their thick, fleshy leaves and fibrous roots, are excellent choices for novice gardeners. These resilient plants exhibit good tolerance to drought and pests, making them a low-maintenance addition to any garden landscape.
Cocktail Series
The Cocktail series of begonias feature dark-leafed varieties that can withstand the sun’s heat better than their green-leafed counterparts. Suitable for partial or full sun locations, these tidy bedding plants, categorized as fibrous-rooted wax begonias, offer a striking contrast in garden beds and containers.
Nonstop Rose
Another gem from the Nonstop series, ‘Nonstop Rose’ begonia, offers a spectrum of rose-colored shades, including ‘Rose Petticoat’, ‘Rose Pink’, and ‘Deep Rose’. With its versatile color palette and robust growth, ‘Nonstop Rose’ adds a touch of elegance to garden beds and containers alike.
Choosing Begonias for Your Garden
When selecting begonias for your garden or containers, consider factors such as space, sunlight exposure, and desired color palette. Mix and match different varieties to create visually appealing arrangements that thrive in your specific environment.
Best Practices for Begonia Care
To ensure the health and vitality of your begonias, provide well-draining soil, regular watering, and occasional fertilization during the growing season. Monitor for signs of pests or diseases and promptly address any issues to maintain optimal plant health.
