Wax Begonia – Flowering plants

Wax Begonia (Begonia x semperflorens-cultorum) is an evergreen perennial, ornamental flowering plant. It has shiny, large, succulent leaves that are either green, variegated, or bronze-colored and sprays of single or double, various shades of red, pink, or white flowers from mid-summer into autumn.

Scientific Name: Begonia x semperflorens-cultorum
Common Name: Wax Begonia

How to grow and maintain Wax Begonia (Begonia x semperflorens-cultorum):

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. Wax 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 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. Wax begonia seeds are tiny and slow to germinate. You can sow seeds in the spring, but it can take several months to grow.

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