How to Grow Small Begonia
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Small Begonia
Begonia semperflorens
flowerSmall begonias, commonly known as wax begonias, are compact flowering plants prized for their ability to thrive in shade and partial shade conditions. These plants produce delicate flowers in shades of pink, red, and white, along with attractive foliage that ranges from green to deep bronze. They are excellent for border edging, containers, and shade gardens where many other flowering plants struggle.
When should you plant Small Begonia in your zone?
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Example Small Begonia timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Small Begonia
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Small Begonia blooms
Around Jun 1≈ 45 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Small Begonia dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 9-11; grown as annuals in cooler zones
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Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny leaves emerge and seedlings develop their first true leaves. Very delicate with shallow root systems.
Maintain high humidity and consistent moisture. Use seed starting mix. Keep temperature around 70-75°F. Provide gentle light.
Vegetative Growth
3-4 weeksPlant develops bushy foliage with multiple stems and leaves. No flowers present yet. Leaves become more vibrant in color.
Pinch back growing tips to encourage bushiness. Maintain consistent watering and humidity. Gradually acclimate to garden conditions if starting indoors.
Budding
1-2 weeksFirst flower buds begin to form in leaf axils. Plant continues to grow and become more compact.
Maintain regular watering and ensure adequate filtered light. Begin light fertilizing with balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks.
Flowering
8-12 weeks or until frostSmall delicate flowers open in clusters, typically in white, pink, or red. Blooms continuously throughout growing season.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms. Continue regular watering and fertilizing. Monitor for pests and diseases.
Senescence
Variable; until frost or end of seasonPlant growth slows as temperatures cool or day length decreases. Flowering may diminish in late fall.
Reduce fertilizing. Can be brought indoors before frost for winter houseplant care, or allow to decline naturally as annual.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Improve air circulation, avoid overhead watering, apply sulfur dust or neem oil spray if needed
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Ensure well-draining soil, reduce watering frequency, avoid waterlogging, remove infected plants
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Spray with insecticidal soap, neem oil, or use yellow sticky traps to monitor and control
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Increase humidity, spray with water to dislodge, use neem oil or miticide if severe
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Remove with alcohol-soaked cotton swab, spray with insecticidal soap, apply neem oil
Uses
Edible flowers for garnish
CulinaryBegonia flowers are edible with a mild, slightly tart flavor and are sometimes used as decorative garnishes for salads and desserts. They add visual appeal to culinary presentations. [source]
Container and landscape gardening
HouseholdSmall begonias are ideal for shade containers, window boxes, hanging baskets, and shaded garden beds where they provide reliable color and texture without requiring full sun. [source]
Traditional folk remedies
MedicinalIn some traditional medicine systems, begonia species have been used to treat various ailments, though scientific evidence is limited. Modern use is primarily ornamental. [source]
Pressed flowers and floral art
CraftThe delicate flowers dry well and can be used in pressed flower arrangements, scrapbooking, and other botanical craft projects. [source]
Pollinator-friendly plantings
WildlifeBegonia flowers attract bees and other pollinators, supporting local wildlife while providing nectar and pollen sources in shade gardens. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
These plants are ornamental flowers, not harvested for food. Deadhead spent blooms by pinching off flower clusters to encourage continuous flowering throughout the season. Remove any yellowing or diseased leaves to maintain plant health and appearance.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Begonias are named after Michel Begon, a French colonial administrator, and were first discovered in tropical regions of South America, Africa, and Asia.
- 🌱 Wax begonias earned their common name because their leaves have a waxy texture that helps them resist water and pests, allowing them to thrive in moist shade conditions.
- 🌱 There are over 1,800 species of begonias, making them one of the most diverse plant groups, though Begonia semperflorens is the most popular variety for shade gardens.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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