Hardy begonia - Begonia grandis (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Hardy begonia

Hardy begonia (Begonia grandis) is a herbaceous perennial that can grow to be 61 cm tall. It blooms from midsummer to late fall. It grows best in partial shade and thrives in rich, moist, well-drained soil.

Scientific classification

Species

Hardy begonia (Begonia grandis)

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

Summer

Harvest Time

30 cm to 60 cm

Plant Height

45 cm to 60 cm

Spread

Deciduous

Leaf type

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer, Fall

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Hardy begonia

Distribution of Hardy begonia

Distribution Map

Hardy begonia is a plant species native to temperate zones of East Asia. This species thrives in its natural habitat but has also been introduced and now grows in parts of Eastern Asia. In addition to its presence in the wild, hardy begonia is widely cultivated, indicating its adaptability and popularity beyond its native range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Forests, Streams, Shrubberies

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Hardy begonia is a hardy deciduous perennial commonly found in shade gardens. It is prized for its lush red-veined foliage and pretty summer-time blooms. Its clump-forming habit makes it suitable for mass planting and borders. Hardy begonia is a great choice for cottage and pollinator gardens. Suggested companion plants include hakone grass or plantain lily for color contrast.

Symbolism

Lovesickness, bitter love

Interesting Facts

According to legend, a girl named Begonia grandis died under the paws of hungry wolves in order to save her father. When villagers brought her back to the village, her blood left a trail. Later, the areas spilled with blood were covered with red mountain flowers. They named these flowers after the girl.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Hardy begonia, including the following common varieties :

Begonia 'Jurassic Pink Shades'Hardy begonia 'Heron’s Pirouette'Begonia 'Little Brother Montgomery'Hardy begonia 'Alba'Begonia 'Red Bull'Hardy begonia 'Heron's Pirouette'Begonia 'Steve's Leaves Starburst'Begonia 'Charm'Begonia 'Fireworks'Begonias 'Dragon Wing Pink'

Toxicity

Hardy begonia contain cucurbitacin B causing burning, swollen mouth, choking, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea for up to two weeks if ingested. Severe cases may impair breathing or swallowing. Roots and tubers are most toxic, but all parts pose a risk. Contact with the plant can also transfer toxin, so keep children away.

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Quickly Identify Hardy begonia

Reddish wing-like foliage in fall

Pink flowers in arching clusters

Distinct three-winged capsules

Olive-green leaves with red veins

Smooth, arching stems with reddish hues

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Care Guide for Hardy begonia

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Potting Mix, Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Hardy begonia originates from East Asia's humid, shaded environments and prefers consistent moisture, tolerating brief dryness. Weekly watering is crucial for its foliage and flowering. As an herbaceous perennial, mulching helps retain soil moisture, reducing watering frequency.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, hardy begonia needs balanced nutrition fertilizers, applied monthly at half-strength during the growing season. Avoid fertilization in winter to prevent stress. Monitor hardy begonia's response and follow package instructions to ensure healthy growth and avoid root damage.

Pruning: Hardy begonia features heart-shaped leaves and pink flowers. Pruning in early to late spring promotes healthy growth by removing dead stems and maintaining shape. Avoid heavy pruning during flowering to reduce stress. Proper pruning enhances appearance and improves air circulation, lowering disease risk.

Propagation: Hardy begonia is a shade-loving perennial that can be easily propagated through stem cuttings with a node. Use a peat and perlite mix to root, keeping soil moist but not soggy. Roots develop in weeks, allowing for transplanting into well-draining soil.

Repotting: Plant hardy begonia in shallow pots for optimal growth. Ensure pots have excellent drainage to prevent waterlogging, which is crucial for the health of the plant.

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Images of Hardy begonia

Distribution of Hardy begonia

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Hardy begonia

Care Guide for Hardy begonia

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