Hardy Begonia (Begonia grandis ssp. evansiana): Perennial Begonia for Shade Gardens

Hardy begonia (Begonia grandis ssp. evansiana) bears green heart-shaped foliage with red veining and claret-stained undersides that steal the show when backlit. Pendent clusters of slightly fragrant, satiny pink or white blossoms open from midsummer until frost. It makes a good perennial companion for ferns and hostas.

Noteworthy Characteristics: Large, heart-shaped leaves; sprays of pink flowers.

Care: Prefers rich, moist but well-drained soil in moderate or full shade, with shelter from afternoon sun. Hardy begonia dies to the ground in winter and often reseeds to form large colonies.

Propagation: Sow seed or bulbils when fresh; take basal or stem cuttings in spring; divide perennial clumps in spring.

Problems: Mealybugs, mites, thrips, whiteflies, powdery mildew, stem rot, rhizome rot, nematodes.

Overview

• Height: 1 ft. to 3 ft.
• Spread: 1 ft. to 3 ft.
• Growth Habit: Clumps
• Growth Pace: Moderate Grower
• Light: Part Shade Only
• Moisture: Medium Moisture
• Maintenance: Low
• Characteristics: Fragrant Flowers, Self Seeds, Showy Flowers, Showy Foliage
• Bloom Time: Early Fall, Fall, Late Summer, Summer
• Flower Color: Pink, White
• Uses: Beds and Borders, Container, Ground Covers
• Style: Woodland Garden
• Seasonal Interest: Summer Interest
• Type: Annuals