Begonias offer two shows in one plant family — some grown for their vividly patterned leaves, others for clusters of ruffled blooms — and both thrive equally well in a shady garden bed or a bright indoor pot.
With well over a thousand species, begonias are among the most diverse ornamental plant groups, ranging from compact wax begonias used as bedding annuals to dramatic rex begonias grown purely for their striking, colorful foliage.
Begonias generally want partial shade and consistently moist but well-draining soil — too much direct sun scorches their leaves, while soggy soil invites rot. Indoors, bright indirect light and regular misting suit foliage varieties best.
Tuberous begonias can be lifted and stored dry over winter in cold climates, then replanted in spring — a technique that lets gardeners keep favorite varieties going year after year despite frost.
