Scientific Name
Begonia cucullata Willd.
Common Name(s)
Wax Begonia, Clubed Begonia
Synonym(s)
Begonia cucullata var. cucullata, Begonia cucullifolia, Begonia dispar, Begonia nervosa, Begonia paludicola, Begonia semperflorens, Begonia setaria
Scientific Classification
Family: Begoniaceae
Genus: Begonia
Flower
Color: White to pink
Bloom Time: Summer
Origin
Begonia cucullata is native to South America.
Description
Begonia cucullata is a herbaceous perennial plant that creates a mound of fleshy, glossy green leaves. It grows up to 18 inches (45 cm) tall and up to 24 inches (60 cm) wide. Leaves are heart-shaped with scalloped edges.
The flowers are white to pink and are produced all summer. Very tiny fine seeds are produced in great quantities.
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.
See more at How to Grow and Care for Begonia.
Links
- Back to genus Begonia
- Plantpedia: Browse flowering plants by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, or Origin
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