Begonia Semperflorens-Cultorum Group (Wax Begonia)

Developed in cultivation, these compact, fibrous-rooted herbaceous perennial hybrids have Begonia cucullata among their ancestors. They usually grow 6 to 12 inches tall and are widely used in flower beds, borders, and containers. Their waxy leaves range from green to bronze. Single or double flowers come in white, pink, and red. Flowering continues from spring until frost, or throughout the year in frost-free conditions. Male and female flowers occur separately on the same plant. Garden escapes are recorded in New Zealand. The sap can irritate skin, and the plants are toxic to pets if eaten. Photographed in Florida.