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Begonia Wikimedia Commons
Begoniaceae

Begonia

Begonia

Caution, gratitude, individuality, harmony.

Family
Begoniaceae
Genus
Begonia
Native to
Tropical and subtropical regions worldwide
Bloom season
Spring, Summer, Fall
Type
perennial herb (often grown as annual)
Height
15–60 cm
Sunlight
Partial shade to bright indirect
Soil
Rich, moist, well-drained
Water
Regular but not soggy
Hardiness
9–11
Lifespan
Perennial

Did you know

  • Begonia is one of the largest plant genera, with over 2,000 known species — and new ones are still being discovered every year.
  • The genus is named after Michel Bégon, a 17th-century French governor of the colony of Saint-Domingue (modern Haiti).
  • Begonia leaves often display striking asymmetry — one half noticeably larger than the other.
  • Many begonia species can be propagated from a single leaf, which will grow new plantlets along its veins.
  • Begonia flowers are edible and have a tart, citrusy flavor — they're popular in tropical salads and garnishes.

Uses

  • Ornamental
  • Houseplant
  • Edible flowers
  • Bedding plant