Begonia boliviensis
A tuberous species native to the Andean cloud forests of Bolivia and northwestern Argentina. It stands out for slender, pendant flowers and arching stems that spill from baskets and window boxes. Plants bloom over a long warm season in part shade and fast‑draining soil. Tubers resent waterlogging and should be lifted or stored where winters freeze.
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)
containers; hanging baskets; shade‑tolerant; long season
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)
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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