Hardy Begonia (Begonia grandis) – Flowering plants

Hardy Begonia (Begonia grandis) is a rare ornamental, monoecious, tuberous-rooted, herbaceous perennial plant producing a clump of branching stems usually 12-24 inches tall. It has large, heart-shaped leaves that have prominent red veins underneath and are especially showy if backlit by the sun. The flowers are pink or white, borne in dichotomously branching cymes from late summer through fall.

Scientific classification

Family: Begoniaceae
Genus: Begonia
Species: B. grandis
Scientific Name: Begonia grandis Dryand.
Common Name: Hardy Begonia

How to grow and care for Hardy Begonia (Begonia grandis)

Light

It grows well in bright indirect sunlight originating from a south, east, or west window. It also thrives under fluorescent lights. Avoid direct sun which can scorch the leaves.

Soil

It requires a well-drained, peat moss-based soil, such as African violet potting mix.

Water

Water your plant regularly during the growing season and always keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. You can allow the top 1 inch of soil to dry out between each watering. During the winter months, reduce watering. Overwatering will cause leaves to turn yellow.

Temperature

It prefers an average room temperature of 65 – 75 degrees Fahrenheit / 18 – 24 degrees Celsius. Begonia is not cold-tolerant and can be harmed by temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit / 13 degrees Celsius.

Fertilizer

Feed every two weeks spring through fall with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted by half. Do not feed your plant during the dormant period.

Propagation

It can be easily propagated by dividing perennial clumps in spring or stem cuttings. Take stem cuttings in spring and root in fresh potting mix. Keep the soil lightly moist. Cover the whole container and plant with a plastic bag or cloche to hold in humidity. Begonia seeds are slow to germinate. You can sow seeds in the spring, but it can take several months to grow.

Pests and Diseases

Begonia has no serious pest or disease problems. It is susceptible to attacks from spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids.

Benefits of Hardy Begonia (Begonia grandis)

• Hardy Begonia (Begonia grandis) is harvested from the wild for local use as a medicine.
• The tuberous roots and fruits of Begonia grandis are anodyne, antiphlogistic, and antispasmodic. Stimulates blood circulation.
• A decoction is used in the treatment of traumatic pain, haematemesis, gonorrhea, post-partum vaginal discharge, amenorrhoea, and snakebites.