Begonias (Begoniaceae) are crooked-leaf plants. With over 900 species and 12,000 cultivated specimens worldwide, they are one of the largest plant genera. With a few exceptions, most species are native to tropical or subtropical climate zones and are therefore not hardy. Here we would like to introduce the most beautiful begonia varieties.
Which begonia varieties are particularly popular and easy to care for?
Popular begonia varieties include the tuberous begonia Begonia Bonfire, the houseplant Begonia Elatior - hybrids, and begonias with special properties such as Begonia metallica, Begonia credneri and Begonia corallina. These varieties are easy to care for and offer a colorful variety.
- 150 species come from the tropical regions of Africa
- 600 species are found in Central and South America
- 600 species are native to Asia
Particularly popular and easy-care begonia varieties
Wherever they originally come from, begonias are all monoecious with separate male and female flowers and are divided into the following three groups.
- Rhizome forming
- Fiber root forming
- tuber forming
The rhizome and fibrous root forming begonias are evergreen begonia varieties with particularly showy leaves. Nevertheless, some of them shed some of their leaves in winter. Both species are primarily cultivated as houseplants. The rhizome-forming begonias include, for example.
- Begonia masoniana – Iron Cross
- Begonia rex – King Begonia
- Begonia versicolor
Bugonias are only leafy in summer and spend the winter as a dormant tuber. They originally come from Brazil. The Begonia-semperflorens hybrids or ice begonias are particularly well known. As an ever-blooming, hard-working Lieschen, this begonia variety conquered the hearts of flower lovers.
Here we present the three most popular ones, which are particularly easy to care for.
- Begonia Bonfire – tuberous begoniaThis flower shines with magnificent orange tones. It beautifies the house, balcony and garden. It blooms in partial shade or in a sunnier location. Your tubers can be replanted in spring.
- Begonia Elatior – HybridsThe Elatior begonia is the most popular houseplant. The variety, splendor of colors and their easy handling when caring for and planting are impressive here.
Individual varieties and begonias with special properties
In special varieties such as Rosade and Chicago, emphasis was placed on better sun tolerance. These are among the most beautiful varieties.
- Begonia metallica
- Begonia credneri
- Begonia corallina
Begonia metallica impresses with its striking metallic sheen on the top of the leaves and strong red coloring below.
Begonia credneri wants to reach high quickly and produces red flowers in the first winter. Begonia corallina hybrid President Carnot comes from Brazil. As its name suggests, it blooms coral-red on long, hanging clusters. It is suitable as a hanging plant.
Tips & Tricks
Pendula odorate – a begonia for the senses. She enchants your heart with her delicate scent. The double red flowers are an eye-catcher on the balcony. Also ideal for shady locations.
