Consulta Plantas

Care of the tuberous plant Begonia x tuberhybrida or Tuberous Begonia

The genus Begonia, family Begoniaceae, comprises 1,500 species and 10,000 cultivars of plants native to subtropical and tropical regions of Asia, America and Africa. Some species are: Begonia x tuberhybrida, Begonia semperflorens, Begonia rex, Begonia grandis, Begonia elatior, Begonia corallina, Begonia boliviensis, Begonia nelumbiifolia, Begonia heracleifolia.

Common name: Tuberous Begonia. Begonia × tuberhybrida belongs to a group of cultivars very popular in nurseries and garden centers.

They are perennial plants with tuberous roots and fleshy reddish-green stems that reach 40 cm (1.31 feet) in height. They have thick, metallic green leaves, heart-shaped, and serrated edges. The showy flowers appear on stiff stems and can be yellow, pink, white, or salmon orange. They bloom in summer.

They are used in pots for balconies, terraces and patios; in hot climates, beds can form in cool areas of the garden.

Begonia x tuberhybrida needs a semi-shade exposure avoiding direct sun in the central hours of the day. They do not resist frost.

The soil can be a mixture of equal parts peat, siliceous sand, dried manure, and leaf mulch.

Water frequently with lime-free water so that the soil is always wet (never water).

Fertilize with mineral fertilizer every 3 weeks in spring and summer.

Excess water causes fungal attacks (powdery mildew) and root rot.

They propagate in late winter by dividing tubers that have shoots. In winter the tubers must be dug up and stored in a dark and dry place.

Images of the tuberous plant Begonia x tuberhybrida or Tuberous Begonia