The wide world of begonias
The genus Begonia includes more than 1,300 species and countless hybrids, mutations, and opportune seedlings, which are broken into several classes according to their general appearance and similar culture. Originally, there were only four accepted classes; there are now eight clearly distinct groups. For more information on begonias, visit the Web site of the American Begonia Society, www.begonias.org.
Semperflorens: This group is probably the most commonly known in the world. Often called “wax” or “bedding” begonias, these plants are constant bloomers with round, shiny leaves that are usually green or brown. There are a few variegated varieties.
Canes: These begonias have tough, elongated stems with a bamboolike appearance. Your grandparent called them “angel wings” because of their recognizable wing-shaped leaves.
Shrubs: Whether they are miniature or giant, these bushy, multistemmed types are easy to grow. Many plants in this class have hairy stems or felted leaves.
Rhizomatous: Grown for their showy leaves, these begonias are heavy spring bloomers. They do not get very tall because they grow from creeping rhizomes. The extensive variety of leaf shapes makes them popular with collectors.
Tuberous: These begonias are usually grown for their showy flowers, which come in every color except blue. They vary in size and go dormant in the fall and winter months and restart each spring.
Rex: Famous for their outstanding foliage, color, and texture, Rex begonias are actually a type of rhizomatous begonia. With hundreds of cultivars bred for foliage, flowers are secondary compared to the bold leaves.
Trailing/Scandent: Usually grown in hanging baskets, this class has telltale glossy leaves and pendulous flowers.
Thick-stemmed: Not widely grown, these begonias have large fleshy stems and an upright habit.
Semperflorens
Photo/Illustration: Michelle Gervais
Canes
Photo/Illustration: Michelle Gervais
