Tender summer-flowering tuberous begonia with large camellia-like double flowers in red, pink, yellow, orange, or white. The standard hanging-basket and shade-bedding plant of summer in mild climates.
Hardiness ratings
| System | Rating | Temperature range | How to read it |
|---|---|---|---|
| USDA hardiness zone | Zone 9–11 | −6.7 °C to 10 °C | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
| RHS hardiness rating | H1c | 5 °C to 10 °C | Plant needs at least this level of cold tolerance |
| Canadian plant hardiness zone | Zone 9 | −1 °C and warmer | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
| Australian (ANBG) zone | Zone 4–7 | 0 °C and warmer | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
Growing notes
- Plant in dappled shade — leaves scorch in direct hot sun, flowers larger and more numerous in cool moist air
- Edible petals and stems — crisp, sour-sorrel flavour from oxalic acid, used as salad garnish or as a sour element in cooking; eat in moderation (the oxalates that give the flavour are mildly irritant in quantity)
- Lift tubers and overwinter dry and frost-free outside USDA zone 9
- Susceptible to powdery mildew and botrytis in damp still air
Categories
Related plants
Cross-check Tuberous begonia against your zones