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Begonia boliviensis
Species; tuberous begonia · A. de Candolle, 1859, Bolivia and NW Argentina
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: Species; tuberous begonia
- Height × spread: 12-24 in × 12-24 in (30-60 cm × 30-60 cm)
- Bloom window: April to frost
- Color & flower form: Scarlet to orange pendant flowers with narrow tepals
- Fragrance: 0 none
- USDA hardiness: zones 8-11 in mild sites; otherwise grown as annual and overwintered indoors
- Breeder / Year / Origin: A. de Candolle, 1859, Bolivia and NW Argentina
- Pet safety: avoid
How it differs
- Narrow, drooping flowers rather than the fuller forms of many hybrids.
- Graceful, arching habit well suited to hanging displays.
- Often tolerates a wider sun range than most tuberous begonias in cool climates.
- Starts early and flowers for an extended season under good care.
Strengths
- Free‑flowering over a long season.
- Performs in containers, window boxes and baskets.
- Distinctive flower shape offers contrast in mixed plantings.
Care in one minute
Site: part shade with good air movement; morning sun in cool summer areas.
Soil and pH: rich, fast‑draining mix; neutral to slightly acidic.
Water: keep evenly moist but never sodden; reduce as nights cool.
Feeding: light, regular feeding to support continuous bloom.
Overwintering: after frost, dry and store tubers in a cool, frost‑free place.
Watch‑outs
- Tubers rot in wet or heavy soils; ensure sharp drainage.
- Susceptible to powdery mildew and botrytis in stagnant, humid air.
- Frost sensitive; protect or store tubers before hard freezes.
Best uses (tags)
Provenance note
Collected in the Andes and described by Alphonse de Candolle; later used by European breeders as a key parent in early tuberous begonia hybrids.
References
- Kew – Plants of the World Online: Begonia boliviensis
- Missouri Botanical Garden – Begonia boliviensis (cv. page with species notes)
- RHS – Begonia boliviensis (profile)
- ASPCA – Begonia (toxicity)
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