All About the Begonia Plant
The begonia is a great plant that people many people have come to love and enjoy. Begonias were named for Michel Bégon, a former Haitian governor, by botanist Charles Plumier, and they are a favorite plant for homes and gardens, as there are many different species available as well as a multitude of bright colours. If you’re looking for a pretty and perky plant, the begonia is for you!
Description of the Begonia Plant
There are many types of begonias available, as well as many hybrid plants that find their way into the begonia genus. This can make it difficult to distinguish a begonia from other perennials, as even normal begonias can vary in appearance drastically from their root system to their blooms. However, one thing you can always count on begonias to do is brighten a room or garden with the fantastically vibrant hues they are available in. Rich reds, brilliant oranges and pretty pinks are fairly standard colours, but whites, yellows and other colours are also available.
Uses for Begonias
For the most part, begonias are given in pots as gifts for many occasions such as a birthdays, housewarmings or just because. They make excellent houseplants as they prefer a warm, frost-free environment, and can even bloom continually all year in those conditions. They can also be moved to grow outdoors, but should be brought in before it gets cold. Traditionally, begonias have been used for herbal medicines to cure many things such as colds, sprains, burns and other trauma.
Growing Begonias
The main thing that you will find with growing begonias is that they are very particular about climate. These plants generally need a warmer climate, so it’s easier to keep them as a houseplant to better control the environment. Should you choose to plant them outside, you’ll want to find somewhere with good soil drainage, as well as indirect sun and protection from wind. Begonias need to be brought in as soon as night frost starts, as they are native to balmy tropical areas and will die in the cold weather.