Begonia annual plants for shade, sun and containers...

About The Begonia Annual Plant

The Cocktail Series - Vodka

The Begonia annual bedding plant comes in many color varieties for sun and shade conditions. Did you know that this annual plant was first used for medicinal purposes rather than as an ornamental plant? Neither did I.

As early as the 14th century this annual was used to reduce swelling, clean wounds and the Chinese drank it as a tea, albeit somewhat bitter. Something we would never think of doing today.

This annual can boast being an attractive plant even when not in bloom. They have a wax-like appearance and no matter what the coloring, it stays.(as shown in the above image from my garden taken September 6, 2009) The 'wax' part of the name actually derives from the shiny, wax-like leaves.

I usually plant many different varieties from the green leaves to the Dragon Begonia's long pointed leaves (see image below). My all time favorite though is the dark almost purple leaf Vodka from the Cocktail series. In 2008 I planted them in my strawberry planter. This year they have found a home in my south garden, merely as an afterthought and space filler.

Others in the series are Whiskey, Brandy and Gin. Fun names, aren't they?

The green leaf Begonia's are found in the Lotto and Pizzazz series.

How To Grow Begonias

Many people think that this annual is a shade plant. Not true. This annual can actually be planted in part sun as well as deep shade. It is best to let the ground dry somewhat between waterings and add some organic matter to the soil when planting. It does not need deadheading but I like to keep the plants and my flowerbeds tidy, so I do clean up the dried blooms. I also pick off any leaves that have dried or turned brown.

If planted in sun, just make sure to keep the soil moderately moist.

Great companion plants could be: Impatiens , or use them as a border for the Dusty Miller or the Salvia Victoria Blue .

Check out my Site Index Page for a listing of additional annuals and perennials to plant in your flower garden design.

Begonia Features:

• form tight compact plants
• prefer rich soil
• soil should dry out between waterings if planted in deep shade
• will grow best in full sun or bright shade
• comes in pink, red and white
• pests really don't bother them
• grow 6" to 9" tall
• looks great planted in mass
• blooms spring to fall
• deadheading not required, but I do try and tidy up the annual plant

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