Gardener's HQ Guide to Growing Hardy Begonia / Beefsteak Plant
Clump forming Shade Plant that looks great when massed
This Begonia is often grown by gardeners as it is able to overwinter better than most other species of this plant genus.
Begonia grandis plant by Esin Üstün; photograph under creative commons license.
This is a great plant to grow in shaded areas, It carries delicate flowers of pink in the summer and early fall / autumn. It is the most hardy Begonia and looks great in a woodland garden or even in a container garden.
Propagation: Start tubers Spring at 18°C (64°F). Plant Hollow side up about 1 inch (2.5 cm apart). Pot out when leaves show. Creates small bulblets that allows it to self propagates. Can also self-seed.
How to Prune: Deadhead
Pests: No major pests. Caterpillars, mealy bugs, thrips, and aphids.
Diseases: None major. Powedery mildew.
Further Information
Attracts: Some butterflies
Tolerant of: Shaded areas
Best used in: Shade Garden, Woodland, Cottage, Patio or containers
Miscellaneous: The most winter hardy of the Begonia's. Dead head to extend bloooms. Native of southern China.
I hope that you enjoyed this guide on how to grow Begonia grandis. You may also enjoy the following growing guides on Lysimachia and Aralia elata plants.
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