Care of the tuberous plant Begonia grandis or Hardy begonia |
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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 grandis, Begonia elatior, Begonia corallina, Begonia boliviensis, Begonia semperflorens, Begonia rex, Begonia x tuberhybrida, Begonia nelumbiifolia, Begonia heracleifolia. Common name: Hardy begonia. This species is native to China. They are deciduous tuberous plants that reach 1 meter (3.28 feet) in height. They have large heart-shaped leaves, with marked veins and reddish petioles; They are an intense green color with reddish streaks that are more appreciated when they receive direct sunlight. They are used in pots and planters on patios and terraces, as indoor plants or to form groups next to a wall or in a not too dark undergrowth; they combine with plants of the genus Hosta and with ferns. Begonia grandis prefers a dim light exposure or direct sunlight only in the early hours of the day. Indoors they need a very bright location. They resist light and occasional frosts. The soil must be light and drain very well; use a mixture of acid peat with a little coarse sand. It's important to water with lime-free water, always waiting for the soil to dry out. In winter, reduce the risks a lot. Indoors, it's advisable to place a plate with damp pebbles under the pot to achieve high humidity; do not spray the leaves. Fertilize with a mineral houseplant fertilizer every 3 weeks during spring and summer. They do not need pruning but it is advisable to remove the dry leaves. If there is drought or low humidity, they can be attacked by mealybugs, aphids and mites. Overwatering can cause attacks of Powdery mildew and Botrytis (fungi). They propagate by division or by leaf cuttings. |
Images of the tuberous plant Begonia grandis or Hardy begonia |
 Begonia grandis  Begonia grandis |