In the heart of my shaded garden, among the whispers of ferns and the dappled sunlight filtering through the trees, begonias dance with elegance and grace. Their vibrant hues and intricate foliage patterns have not only transformed my garden but also woven themselves into the fabric of my life. Join me as I share the stories of 13 outstanding begonia types and varieties that have captured my heart and enriched my journey as a gardener.
1. Angel Wing Begonia (Begonia coccinea)
The Angel Wing Begonia holds a special place in my heart, reminding me of my grandmother’s garden where these delicate beauties flourished beneath the old oak tree. Each time I gaze upon their ethereal wings, I’m transported back to those cherished moments of my childhood, filled with laughter and the sweet scent of blooming flowers.
2. Rex Begonia (Begonia rex)
My Rex Begonia, with its kaleidoscope of colors and mesmerizing patterns, is more than just a plant—it’s a living work of art. Its leaves, reminiscent of stained glass windows, serve as a reminder of the beauty that can be found in even the most unexpected places, inspiring me to seek out moments of wonder and awe in my daily life.
3. Dragon Wing Begonia (Begonia x hybrida)
As fierce as its namesake, the Dragon Wing Begonia bursts forth with fiery blooms, igniting a sense of adventure and exploration in my garden. I’ll never forget the day I stumbled upon its vibrant clusters of flowers while wandering through a local botanical garden, each bloom a symbol of resilience and strength in the face of adversity.
4. Tuberous Begonia (Begonia tuberhybrida)
Every spring, I eagerly anticipate the arrival of my Tuberous Begonias, their camellia-like blooms a welcome sight after the long winter months. As I carefully plant each tuber in the rich soil of my garden beds, I’m reminded of the cycles of life and the beauty that emerges from patience and perseverance.
5. Wax Begonia (Begonia x semperflorens-cultorum)
My Wax Begonias, with their glossy leaves and cheerful blooms, are like old friends who never fail to brighten my day. Whether planted in pots on my front porch or nestled among the ferns in my shaded garden, their resilience and unwavering beauty serve as a constant source of inspiration and joy.
6. Rhizomatous Begonia (Begonia rhizomatous)
In the quiet corners of my home, my Rhizomatous Begonias thrive, their lush foliage a reminder of the resilience of life in the face of adversity. As I tend to their needs, I’m reminded of the importance of nurturing both plants and people, cultivating a sense of connection and belonging in my indoor sanctuary.
7. Rex-cultorum Begonia (Begonia rex-cultorum)
My Rex-cultorum Begonias, with their regal beauty and intricate foliage, are a testament to the power of transformation and renewal. Each time I marvel at their ornate leaves, I’m reminded of my own journey of growth and self-discovery, finding beauty and strength in the midst of life’s challenges.
8. Cane Begonia (Begonia cane-group)
Tall and graceful, my Cane Begonias reach for the sky, their arching stems a symbol of resilience and determination. As I watch them sway in the gentle breeze, I’m reminded to stand tall in the face of adversity, embracing change and growth with grace and courage.
9. Begonia ‘Gryphon’
The metallic sheen of my Begonia ‘Gryphon’ leaves me spellbound, its shimmering foliage a reflection of the magic and wonder that surrounds us each day. In its presence, I’m reminded to see the world with fresh eyes, finding beauty in the ordinary and extraordinary alike.
10. Begonia ‘Escargot’
Like a spiral staircase leading to new adventures, my Begonia ‘Escargot’ unfurls its spiral leaves with grace and elegance. As I watch its foliage spiral outward, I’m reminded of the journey of self-discovery, embracing the twists and turns of life with curiosity and wonder.
11. Begonia ‘Maculata Wightii’ (Polka Dot Begonia)
The playful pattern of my Polka Dot Begonia brings a sense of joy and whimsy to my indoor oasis, its spotted leaves a reminder to embrace the unexpected with open arms. In its presence, I’m reminded to dance with life’s uncertainties, finding beauty in the chaos and spontaneity of each moment.
12. Begonia ‘Lucerna’
The fiery hues of my Begonia ‘Lucerna’ light up my shaded patio, casting a warm glow that invites relaxation and contemplation. As I bask in its radiant beauty, I’m reminded to savor the simple pleasures of life, finding peace and contentment in the present moment.
13. Begonia ‘Black Mamba’
Dark and mysterious, my Begonia ‘Black Mamba’ exudes an air of intrigue and allure, its velvety foliage a symbol of hidden depths and untold secrets. In its presence, I’m reminded to embrace the shadows as well as the light, finding beauty in the darkness and the unknown.
Begonias, with their extraordinary diversity and timeless beauty, have become more than just plants—they are storytellers, weaving tales of resilience, transformation, and wonder. As I tend to their needs and watch them flourish, I’m reminded of the beauty that surrounds us each day, waiting to be discovered and cherished. In the quiet moments spent among their lush foliage, I find solace and inspiration, knowing that no matter what challenges lie ahead, the begonias will always be there, whispering tales of hope and possibility in the language of leaves.