Begonias are a diverse group of plants that encompass both houseplants and garden flowers, making them a favorite among gardeners. While many appreciate the unique foliage cherished by houseplant enthusiasts, my passion lies in cultivating begonias in the garden.
Their vibrant flowers and striking leaves add drama to shaded areas, where they truly shine. Surprisingly easy to care for, begonias require minimal maintenance, thriving even in less-than-ideal conditions.
With varieties suitable for garden beds, containers, hanging baskets, and hardy perennials, there’s a begonia perfect for every garden. Let’s explore the different types of begonias and discover your next favorite variety!
Different Types of Begonias
Double Up White
Double Up White begonias feature large, double fluffy white flowers that create a striking display. Growing to a height of 18 inches and a width of 12 inches, this variety boasts huge clusters of blooms atop dark bronze, waxy leaves. It forms a beautiful mound, making it perfect for small containers, borders, or mass plantings.
With no need for deadheading, these begonias bloom all season long. The bright white flowers contrast beautifully with the dark bronze leaves, making them an excellent filler plant when paired with a rex begonia, such as Jurassic Silver Swirl.
Olympia Pink
Olympia Pink begonias are low-growing flowers, ideal for filling empty spaces in your garden. Reaching a height of 8 inches and a width of 6 inches, they feature lovely light pink flowers with yellow centers that beautifully complement their succulent green leaves.
These begonias are perfect for creating a pretty pink border in garden beds or mixing with other Olympia series begonias for a vibrant annual display. They also serve as charming low-growing fillers in containers, and they can be easily grown from seed, allowing you to create a striking impact in your garden with multiple plants.
Victory Rose
Victory Rose begonias are ideal for flower beds, offering a very low-maintenance option for gardeners. Growing to a height of 8 inches and a width of 6 inches, these charming begonias feature small flowers that are white on the inside, transitioning to blush pink margins with a cheerful yellow eye.
They make a stunning bedding plant when massed together, especially alongside white flowers that enhance their delicate colors. Like all wax begonias, Victory Rose requires minimal care and nearly no deadheading.
Whopper Rose with Bronze Leaf
Whopper Rose with Bronze Leaf is a striking variety featuring a profusion of small light pink flowers atop dark bronze foliage. Growing to a height of 30 inches and a width of 22 inches, this wax begonia defies the typical low-growing annual stereotype. The Whopper Rose series consists of tall, dense plants that can reach up to 2 feet at maturity.
Ideal for mass planting in garden borders, it also works beautifully in containers. The bronze leaves create a stunning contrast with silver foliage plants like dusty miller or licorice plant, enhancing the overall garden aesthetic.
Fiona Red
Fiona Red is a stunning red cultivar of wax begonias, reaching a height of 12 inches and a width of 10 inches. This variety features delicate, blushing semi-double flowers atop large, fleshy, round leaves. The fluffy blossoms of Fiona Red are a delightful departure from the typical single flowers found in most wax begonias, creating a more dramatic floral display.
With their characteristic big, round, lily pad-like leaves, these begonias are perfect for containers as well as for mass plantings in annual beds.
Fibrous/Wax
Fibrous, commonly known as wax begonias, are the classic garden variety appreciated for their lower growth and thick, waxy leaves. Although often viewed as old-fashioned, they remain popular for good reasons. Wax begonias thrive in large masses and borders, making them perfect for garden beds and container fillers.
They can tolerate more sun and occasional dryness compared to other begonias, making them versatile in various conditions. With new introductions like Begonia semperflorens, it’s time to revive these charming flowers in our gardens.
Olympia Red
Olympia Red begonias are excellent border plants, prized for their sun tolerance. Growing to a height of 8 inches and a width of 6 inches, these begonias feature prolific small red blossoms with vibrant yellow centers atop waxy green, oval-shaped leaves.
They thrive in sunny conditions as long as they receive adequate water. Frequently available in six packs at garden centers, Olympia Red begonias create stunning displays when planted in borders and masses, and their long-lasting blooms require minimal deadheading.
Cocktail Rum
Cocktail Rum wax begonias feature striking dark reddish-maroon leaves, making them a standout choice in the garden. Growing to a height of 8 inches and a width of 6 inches, this variety tolerates more sun than its green counterparts. The contrast between the dark foliage and the soft white flowers, adorned with yellow centers and light pink margins, is truly stunning.
Cocktail Rum pairs beautifully when massed alongside light pink flowers, such as rocket orchid snapdragons, or with vibrant chartreuse plants like wasabi coleus, making it a versatile option for creating eye-catching combinations in pots and garden beds.
Bada Boom Pink
Bada Boom Pink begonias, similar to the Cocktail series, showcase darker leaves, though not as deep in hue. Growing to a height of 8 inches and a width of 12 inches, this variety is distinguished by its prolific bright pink blossoms.
Bada Boom Pink can withstand periods of drought and tolerates more sun than many tuberous varieties. With low maintenance needs and long-lasting blooms that require minimal deadheading, these begonias are perfect for mass planting in beds, creating formal borders, or as eye-catching container plants.
Ambassador White
Ambassador White begonias are classic drought-tolerant flowers often seen along paths and walkways. Growing to a height of 8 inches and a width of 12 inches, this variety features lovely small single white flowers with cheerful yellow eyes, complementing the small fleshy leaves.
While it may seem old-fashioned, Ambassador White effectively brightens garden paths and borders, or serves as a charming filler in containers. Low maintenance and capable of surviving in shade, they prefer partial sunlight, making them a versatile choice for various garden settings.
Tuberous
The bulk of this list will feature tuberous begonias, the very varieties that sparked my love for begonias. Known for their large blossoms, including stunning double blooms, these flowers resemble lush roses and make a spectacular display. I primarily use them in pots, but they also thrive in shady garden beds, adding bold pops of color.
With an impressive array of colors and flower types available, you’re sure to find a tuberous begonia that suits your garden. Tuberous varieties prefer partial shade, as they can become crispy in full sun; look for Begonia x tuberhybrida for these beautiful options.
Nonstop Red
Nonstop Red begonias are a stunning choice that pairs well with lower-growing companion plants, adding height and impact. Reaching 12 inches in height and 14 inches in width, these begonias boast large, irregular, rose-like blossoms—some fluffy doubles and others single blooms with intricate yellow stamens. They create vibrant displays reminiscent of red roses in the shade.
I love planting them with hostas for bold color and using them in shady pots alongside white fillers like bacopa and a majesty palm for elegant arrangements.
On Top Fandango
On Top Fandango tuberous begonias feature light and airy blooms that strikingly resemble roses. Growing to a height and width of 12 inches, this beautiful bicolor variety showcases white flowers with soft pink margins. The large, fluffy blossoms create an elegant display in pots.
Pair these begonias with other white or light pink flowers for a stunning arrangement; I enjoy combining them with purple lobelia and Wizard Mix coleus for a vibrant, tropical punch effect.
Nonstop Orange
Nonstop Orange begonias bring a vibrant pop of color to darker, shadier areas of your garden. Reaching a height of 12 inches and a width of 14 inches, this variety features large, showy flowers, including fluffy doubles and single blooms on the same stems.
I believe orange is an underrated flower color; while some clients request no orange flowers, it offers a bold and unexpected statement, especially in the shade. Pair these bright blooms with lobelia for a striking combination or sprinkle them throughout your shade garden for a delightful surprise.
Solenia Salmon Coral
Solenia Salmon Coral begonias feature dense, fluffy blooms that thrive best in the shade but can also tolerate some sunny spots in your yard. Growing to a height and spread of 12 inches, these flowers showcase a lovely orangey-pink hue, creating a beautiful mound.
They pair wonderfully with lobelia and senecio ivy for charming container arrangements or can be used as vibrant pops of color throughout a shade garden. The Solenia series can handle more sun than many tuberous varieties, but keep an eye on the leaves—if they become crispy, it may be getting too much sun. More sunlight also means you’ll need to water them more frequently.
Nonstop Fire
Nonstop Fire tuberous begonias add a unique flair to any flower bed. Growing to a height and width of 12 inches, this variety features large blossoms that can be single or double, rivaling the iconic look of roses. With a creamy yellow interior that blushes to reddish-pink at the margins, the flowers are beautifully varied—some have more yellow, while others display darker pink edges, creating an intriguing mix that blends seamlessly.
These begonias shine in pots on their own or can be paired with low-key plants like green ivy or white bacopa. Their interesting color variations make them stand out without needing additional colors, and they also look stunning in mass plantings in annual beds, giving the impression of a thoughtfully curated color palette crafted by nature.
Nonstop White
Nonstop White tuberous begonias bring pure elegance to any garden, featuring huge double and single white blossoms held upright on sturdy stems. Growing to a height and width of 12 inches, they are perfect for beds and container arrangements.
I love the idea of a green and white garden, combining these begonias with hostas that have white edges or centers (like Patriot or Fire and Ice) and perennial white flowers (such as snowdrop anemone or sweet woodruff) to create a bright, magical shade garden.
They also pair beautifully in pots with foliage-focused plants like coleus, caladium, or various rex begonias, providing a lovely neutral bloom that balances the arrangement without overwhelming it with too much color.
Nonstop Deep Rose
Nonstop Deep Rose tuberous begonias are perfect for adding vibrant pink blooms to the shady corners of your yard. Growing to a height and width of 12 inches, these bold hot pink flowers make a striking statement, distinguishing themselves from softer shades. They pair beautifully with coleus varieties that share a similar pink hue, such as Wizard Rose, Chocolate Covered Cherry, or French Quarter.
Alternatively, combining these begonias with nonstop white begonias creates a charming, feminine display. They also look stunning alongside purple or blue lobelia. With few flowers offering such vivid pink in shade gardens, these begonias provide unexpected pops of color, enhancing any shady bed or container arrangement.
Prima Donna Sunburst
Prima Donna Sunburst begonias are a stunning variety featuring large yellow flowers with an eye-catching orange ring around the edge. Growing to a height and width of 12 inches, these dinner plate begonias have beautifully ruffled edges that make a bold statement.
They’re perfect for containers or directly in garden beds, with their large, striking blooms sure to attract attention. For a dynamic display, pair them with nonstop red begonias to enhance the vibrant red margins and create a stunning contrast in your garden.
Solenia Dusty Rose
Solenia Dusty Rose tuberous begonias are ideal for patio gardens, featuring beautiful blooms in a lovely shade of pink. The flowers are lighter on the inner petals, deepening to darker margins, and they boast uniform ruffled shapes that sit upright. Growing to a height and width of 12 inches, these begonias form a neat mound, making them perfect for small pots or as part of a mixed shade container.
Their carnation-like ruffled flowers add a romantic whimsy to any shade garden. Additionally, Solenia varieties can tolerate more sun than many others, offering greater versatility in garden placements.
Nonstop Yellow
Nonstop Yellow tuberous begonias are among the loveliest yellow flowers, adding a burst of sunshine to your garden. Growing to a height and width of 12 inches, these vibrant yellow begonias feature large, sometimes double flowers that drape beautifully over neat green leaves. Their bright color truly brightens up shady areas, making them a cheerful addition.
These begonias work well as pops of color in a dark shade garden, especially alongside hostas with chartreuse variegations like ‘Guacamole.’ They also create a simple yet striking container arrangement when paired with a palm and some ivy, resulting in a bright and cheerful display.
On Top Sunset Shades
On Top Sunset Shades tuberous begonias offer a stunning variety of color combinations, making them a favorite in my seasonal plant orders for clients’ gardens. Growing to a height and width of 12 inches, these begonias feature large double and some single flowers that are heavy and cover the plant beautifully.
The colors are wonderfully diverse, ranging from pale yellow that blushes to pink, to dark red margins, and even pure golden yellow. They resemble a floral sunset, perfect for mixed containers. The different hues complement each other seamlessly, eliminating the need to worry about matching colors. These begonias are similar to Nonstop Fire begonias and can be used interchangeably for a vibrant display.
Pin Up Flame
Pin Up Flame is a striking orange single-flowered tuberous begonia that adds a unique touch to any garden. Growing to a height and width of 12 inches, this variety stands out from the more common large fluffy double flowers, featuring instead numerous single flowers that resemble pansies in shape.
The most captivating aspect of Pin Up Flame is its vibrant flame color, with yellow centers and blushing red margins. Each plant showcases a range of color variations, from thin red edges to blooms that are predominantly red, and even pure yellow. This diversity creates a stunning display when planted in masses, resulting in a beautiful blur of variegated red and yellow flowers.
Picotee White-Pink
Picotee White Pink tuberous begonias feature stunning blooms with a beautiful pink edge around pure white petals. Growing to a height and width of 12 inches, this romantic variety boasts double ruffled flowers that resemble large roses, making them perfect for both containers and garden beds.
The striking dark pink margins add a special touch to each flower, enhancing their appeal. Pair them with white and pink caladiums or various coleus varieties for a harmonious and visually pleasing display that brightens up any garden setting.
Cascade Florence
Cascade Florence is a charming tuberous begonia with a lovely blush pink color, reaching a height and width of 12 inches. This variety features large, fluffy double blossoms that are white in the center and transition to a delicate light pink around the edges.
With their unique habit of being both slightly upright and cascading, these flowers face downwards, making them ideal for hanging baskets or containers. Their graceful appearance adds a soft touch to any garden display, perfect for creating a romantic ambiance.
Rieger Begonias
Rieger begonias are a delightful cross between wax and tuberous begonias, combining the best features of both. With fleshy leaves similar to wax begonias and large rosettes of flowers characteristic of tuberous types, they are perfect for gardens. Their upright flowers avoid drooping into the soil, ensuring they remain visible from a distance.
These begonias are excellent for annual containers, boasting bold, bright blooms that last long and require minimal deadheading. Originally considered winter bloomers, recent introductions now flower all summer long. Rieger begonias not only add vibrant color to gardens but also provide structure. Look for Begonia x hiemalis to find these beautiful plants.
Amstel Clara
Amstel Clara Rieger begonias are an excellent choice for companion planting with hostas, thriving in shady areas. Growing to a height of 16 inches and a width of 12 inches, Amstel Clara features upright rosette blossoms and glossy green foliage reminiscent of wax begonias, combined with the size and form of tuberous types.
This white variety is perfect for brightening shaded spots without the issues of drippy tuberous begonias, which can look messy when wet. The structured, upright flowers of Amstel Clara maintain their beauty even with irrigation, requiring minimal deadheading. A simple task of removing spent blooms keeps them looking fresh. Pair these with hostas that have white margins, like Hosta Patriot, for a stunning garden display.
Elatior Valentino Pink
Elatior Valentino Pink is a unique variety of Rieger begonia that stands out with its strikingly colored flowers, reaching a height and width of 12 inches. These begonias boast large pink blossoms that evoke the charm of peonies, particularly reminiscent of bowl-of-beauty varieties found in sunny gardens.
Each bloom features fluffy double flowers with creamy yellow centers, adding a delightful contrast. Perfect for containers or garden beds, Elatior Valentino Pink brings the beauty of peonies into shaded areas, providing a vibrant touch to any floral arrangement.
Amstel Batik
Amstel Batik Rieger begonias are stunning coral beauties that thrive in shady conditions, reaching a height of 16 inches and a width of 12 inches. Characterized by classic rosettes of bright coral orange flowers atop succulent leaves, they create a vibrant focal point in any container garden.
For an eye-catching combination, consider placing a majesty palm in the center, surrounded by Amstel Batik begonias, and add trailing purple lobelia for a cascading effect. This unexpected coral color also pairs beautifully in shade gardens with purple flowers like monkshood and hostas, adding a delightful contrast to traditional hues.
Amstel Veronica
Amstel Veronica Rieger begonias are an upright-blooming variety that can stay in bloom all season long with the right care, reaching a height of 16 inches and a width of 12 inches. Featuring delicate rosettes in a pale reddish-orange hue, they are perfect for adding vibrant pops of color to shady beds or as filler plants in containers.
These begonias require minimal deadheading, making them low-maintenance. Plant them in small groupings of three or five to create a beautiful mass of upright red blossoms, enhancing any garden display with their cheerful charm.
Amstel Blitz
Amstel Blitz Rieger begonias are lovely yellow blooms that are easy to care for, reaching a height of 16 inches and a width of 12 inches. Part of the beloved Amstel series, they feature upright rosettes atop fleshy green leaves, offering vibrant color throughout the season.
The bright, clear yellow of Blitz adds a cheerful pop to shade gardens and shady pots, making it a versatile choice. With minimal maintenance required, these begonias are perfect for gardeners looking to brighten up their spaces effortlessly.
Elatior Borias
Elatior Borias Rieger begonias are enchanting with their creamy, dusty pink blooms, resembling a bouquet of roses. Standing at 12 inches tall and spreading 12 inches wide, this bushy upright variety features light salmon pink rosettes that add a whimsical touch to any garden.
Perfect for creating a romantic theme, Borias pairs beautifully with dusty green variegated creeping charlie in containers or surrounded by white alyssum in garden beds. Its vintage charm makes it a delightful addition to floral arrangements.
Hanging Begonia
Hanging begonias are an eye-catching choice for adding drama to your porch, primarily classified as tuberous begonias. These varieties feature flowers that gracefully dangle downwards on their stems, making them ideal for hanging baskets or as spiller plants in containers.
While they may not suit garden borders due to their drooping blooms, they thrive in various colors and shapes. For beautiful hanging displays, look for varieties like Begonia boliviensis. These begonias transform any space with their stunning, cascading blooms.
Angelique
The Angelique hanging begonia is a breathtaking variety featuring large, double white flowers that often blush to a soft pink. These fluffy blooms create a stunning display, with some blossoms perched atop the plant while others gracefully cascade down.
Ideal for hanging baskets or containers, the neutral white and pink colors allow for versatile pairings. Consider combining it with plants like wizard rose coleus or pink and white caladium. However, this begonia is so striking that it also shines beautifully on its own.
Dragon Wing Red
The Dragon Wing Red begonia is a vibrant choice for hanging planters, featuring small dangling flowers that create a striking display. With its lush waxy green leaves and profusion of red blooms, this variety forms a stunning ball of color.
As a fibrous begonia, it tolerates more sun than tuberous types, making it perfect for sunny spots. You’ll often find these cascading from hanging baskets on lamp posts or adorning city pathways, bringing a lively touch to any garden setting.
Summerwings Dark Elegance
If you’re looking to add a vibrant splash of red to your garden, Summerwings Dark Elegance is a stunning choice. This hanging variety features bright red flowers cascading over beautiful dark foliage, creating a striking contrast.
Perfect for hanging baskets or as a focal point in containers, this begonia shines in combinations. One standout pairing is with a ‘Brocade Fire’ geranium and a palm in the center—where the chartreuse geranium and red flowers complement the begonia’s dark leaves, creating a fabulous visual impact.
Santa Cruz Sunset
True to its name, Santa Cruz Sunset captures the vibrant hues of a beach sunset. This eye-catching hanging variety features long, pointed leaves adorned with an abundance of bright orangey-red flowers that dangle gracefully.
Ideal for hanging baskets or as a dramatic spiller in containers, its vivid blooms create a striking contrast against chartreuse plants like golden lysimachia or electric lime coleus. Add this begonia to your garden for a splash of color reminiscent of a beautiful sunset.
Bellaconia Soft Orange
With its creamy orange color and fluffy, soft petals, Bellaconia Soft Orange brings a unique touch to your hanging planters. The large, downward-facing flowers resemble ballerinas in tutus, adding a whimsical charm.
Perfect for hanging baskets or pots where they can gently trail down, these stunning blooms offer an unexpected pop of color in shade gardens. Pair them with lobelia or bacopa for a beautifully soft-hued arrangement.
Funky Red
Funky Red is a vibrant hanging begonia that showcases bright, spiky, double blooms, adding a playful flair to your garden. These eye-catching red flowers dangle down like typical hanging varieties but feature a unique starburst shape.
Perfect for hanging baskets, it also serves as a spectacular spiller in pots. Its distinct appearance makes it a standout choice, whether planted alone or combined with other plants.
Bossa Nova Rose
Bossa Nova Rose is a delightful hanging begonia featuring narrow leaves adorned with an abundance of small, bright pink blossoms that cascade down on arching stems. This variety thrives in hanging baskets, creating a stunning ball of color.
It also works beautifully in pots as a spilling flower, especially when paired with upright begonias for contrast. With its reliable nature, Bossa Nova Rose is a great alternative to fuchsias, bringing charm to any garden display.
Sun Dancer Apricot
Sun Dancer Apricot is a stunning hanging begonia that combines the best features of tuberous begonias with a graceful trailing habit. Its large, ruffled double blossoms in a lovely peach hue add a delicate touch to any garden.
This variety shines in hanging baskets, whether displayed solo or paired with dark purple lobelia for a striking contrast. Its soft color and elegant form make it a charming addition to any outdoor space.
Waterfall Encanto Red
Waterfall Encanto Red is a captivating hanging begonia that’s sure to draw in hummingbirds and other pollinators. With its dark, slender foliage featuring a hint of red at the jagged tips, this variety is both striking and attractive.
The bright red, tulip-shaped flowers dangle from red stems, creating a beautiful display. Perfect for hanging baskets or as a spiller in containers, it pairs beautifully with chartreuse foliage plants like golden lysimachia for a vibrant contrast.
Belleconia Rose
Belleconia Rose is a stunning hanging begonia that makes a bold statement on any porch. Its large plumes of vibrant pink flowers gracefully hang down on slender stems, creating a dramatic effect.
Ideal for hanging baskets, this variety thrives when grouped together, adding a striking pop of color. Pair it with nonstop deep rose begonias for a cohesive hot pink floral display in your shade garden.
Rhizomatous
The most common type of rhizomatous begonias is Rex begonias. Often considered houseplants, they actually thrive as garden plants, especially in pots where their intricate foliage can shine. Most varieties listed will be Rex begonias, as others are better suited for indoor settings.
When looking for Rex begonias, check the greenhouse’s houseplant section. These plants prefer shade, as sun exposure can lead to crispy, bleached leaves. Additionally, place them in sheltered spots to protect against wind damage. Look for Begonia rex-cultorum for various Rex begonia options.
T Rex Painter’s Palette
Typically considered houseplants, T Rex Painter’s Palette begonias thrive in the right shady spot in your yard. Height: 12”, Width: 16”.
I love this begonia! Each spring, I find them at the garden center, and after some struggle indoors, I decided to try them outside. They flourished all summer long. The large leaves are stunning, featuring a dark pink center that fades to lighter pink and frosty white, with green accents radiating out.
You’ll receive compliments on this beauty in a shady pot. I paired it with simple green senecio ivy and a nonstop deep rose begonia for a lovely container combination.
Escargot
Escargot Begonia is a captivating plant known for its striking spiral-shaped leaves that resemble a snail shell. The large, dark green leaves with frosted white swirls make it perfect for container designs or as a unique border along shaded garden paths.
This begonia grows to a height of 12 inches and spreads up to 12 inches in width. Pair it with hanging begonias like Santa Cruz Sunset for a stunning combination of flowers and foliage, ensuring it’s placed in a shady, protected area for the best results.
China Curl
China Curl Rex Begonia is a stunning plant with a height and width of 12 inches. It features a striking swirl pattern similar to the Escargot begonia but with sharper, more pointed leaves. The dark black margins blend beautifully into a frosty silver center, making it a true work of art.
China Curl thrives in shady spots and can stand alone in a container or be paired with other annuals, always taking center stage with its intricate foliage.
Ring of Fire
Ring of Fire rex begonia is a stunning plant with large, jagged leaves that feature a striking color pattern. The leaves have a bright pink center, a frosted silver inner section, and dark green veins, all framed by a vibrant magenta pink “ring of fire” along the edges.
With a height and width of 12 inches, this begonia is perfect for containers. Pair it with other pink foliage plants like caladiums or coleus to highlight its vibrant colors.
T Rex Ruby Slippers
T Rex Ruby Slippers begonia is a breathtaking addition to any garden, standing at 16 inches tall and wide. Its large, jagged leaves feature a dramatic dark, almost black center, encircled by a stunning ruby pink hue.
This striking plant looks fabulous in a pot or alongside other T Rex begonias like Painter’s Palette. For an elegant contrast, pair it with white begonias, such as nonstop white tuberous begonias. Plant it in a prominent spot to showcase its stunning foliage!
Jurassic Silver Swirl
Jurassic Silver Swirl begonia is a stunning choice for any garden, reaching a height of 18 inches and a width of 18 inches. This unique plant features classic heart-shaped leaves that are jagged and irregular, showcasing a dark black color with a frosted green swirl in the center. The leaves have a whimsical, floating quality, reminiscent of ancient foliage.
Perfect for a protected area, it can be planted alongside nonstop white begonias for a modern black-and-white look or showcased in a large pot on its own for maximum impact.
Heron’s Pirouette
The Heron’s Pirouette Hardy Begonia is a standout perennial that not only boasts stunning foliage but also produces lovely flowers. Standing at 18 inches tall and spreading up to 24 inches, it features heart-shaped leaves throughout spring and early summer.
As late summer arrives, this variety bursts into bloom with sprays of light pink flowers adorned with yellow centers, delicately hanging from dark pink stems. It’s a wonderful addition to any shade garden, especially when paired with hostas, helping to fill the gap in late summer blooms.
Grandis Alba
The Grandis Alba Hardy Begonia is a captivating perennial that thrives in shady spots. Reaching a height of 18 inches and a width of 24 inches, it features large, green heart-shaped leaves with a striking reddish underside.
In late summer, delicate sprays of white flowers with cheerful yellow centers emerge on pink stems, adding a lovely touch to the garden. This variety not only brightens up shade gardens with its blooms but also adds visual interest with its unique double-sided foliage.
Red Undies
The Red Undies Begonia is a delightful addition to any garden, named for its unique red underside that adds a playful touch. This hardy perennial reaches a height of 24 inches and a width of 16 inches, forming a lovely mound of green heart-shaped leaves.
Throughout midsummer into fall, it showcases charming sprays of small pink flowers, providing a long-lasting bloom period. With its dense, lush appearance, Red Undies is sure to bring both color and character to shaded areas.
Masoniana
Masoniana begonia, also known as the Iron Cross begonia, stands at 18 inches tall and spreads to 18 inches wide. This captivating plant features thick, spongy, rounded leaves adorned with a striking black iron cross pattern that runs through the center of its green foliage. Its unique appearance makes it a stunning choice for hanging baskets or containers, adding texture and interest to any arrangement.
Perfect for protected porches, it can be paired with Boston ferns and spider plants to create a lush outdoor jungle oasis.
Hardy Begonia
The Hardy begonia is a perennial plant that thrives best in shady areas, making it an excellent choice for low-light gardens. While I don’t have much hands-on experience with hardy begonias, their lush, heart-shaped foliage and delicate flowers are a delightful addition to shady spaces.
They are perfect for gardeners looking to create perennial-only landscapes, reducing the annual expense of bedding plants. Hardy begonias are well-suited for zones 6 or 7-8. Look for Begonia grandis for a beautiful perennial option.
