Scientific Name
Begonia aconitifolia A.DC.
Common Name(s)
Cane Begonia, Metallica Begonia, Holly-leaf Begonia
Synonym(s)
Begonia faureana, Begonia kimusiana, Begonia sceptrum
Scientific Classification
Family: Begoniaceae
Genus: Begonia
Flower
Color: White and pink
Bloom Time: Summer
Description
Begonia aconitifolia is a woody, fibrous-rooted, usually upright evergreen perennial that grows up to 4 feet (1.2 m) tall. It has slender, bamboo-like stems with regularly spaced swollen nodes and broad, asymmetrical, deeply toothed to lobed leaves. It bears white and pink flowers.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zone 10a to 11b: from 30 °F (−1.1 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Begonias are rather versatile in their requirements: Old-fashioned Wax Begonias are great in the shade, but several newer Wax Begonia varieties are perfectly happy in full shade to full sun. No matter where you plant begonias, it's a good idea to give plants a regular dose of fertilizer to help fuel the constant barrage of blooms they're bound to throw at you.
When it comes to watering begonias, finding a good balance is key for healthy plants. Most Begonia varieties need to be consistently watered but shouldn't get too wet (too much water can kill them). So, don't be afraid to let the plants dry out a little between each watering. Begonia boliviensis varieties particularly like sharp drainage, as they're native to growing on cliff walls.
Most Begonias grow upright. For containers or hanging baskets, look for Begonia boliviensis and Angel Wing types, which have a more cascading habit.
Begonias perform best in warm environments, so planting after there's no longer a chance of spring frost will help your Begonia thrive. Be patient after planting. Begonias take a bit of time to get going, and you usually won't see a burst in growth until after the summer heat kicks in.
See more at How to Grow and Care for Begonia.
Origin
This species is native to Brazil.
Hybrids
Links
- Back to genus Begonia
- Plantpedia: Browse flowering plants by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, or Origin
Photo Gallery
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