About

Begonia evansiana 'Alba' is a perennial Begonia in the family Begoniaceae, grown for its summer–autumn flowering. It belongs to a large genus of tropical and subtropical plants that are often cultivated under glass in cooler climates or moved outdoors during warm months. In the UK it is typically treated as a pot or conservatory plant and brought inside before cold weather. Flowering occurs from June to October.

About the genus

Begonia is a genus of perennial flowering plants in the family Begoniaceae. The genus contains more than 2,000 different plant species, distributed primarily across tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and Central and South America, with Africa considered the center of origin. Some species are commonly grown indoors as ornamental houseplants in cooler climates, or cultivated outside in summertime for their bright colorful flowers, which have petals but no sepals.

Wikipedia contributors, "Begonia", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Begonia

In the garden

Begonia evansiana 'Alba' sits within a genus of more than 2,000 species that originate mainly in tropical and subtropical regions; Africa is regarded as the centre of origin for Begonia. Many species from this group are perennial herbs or subshrubs and, in cooler areas, are kept as houseplants or grown under cover for the summer months. For growers in the UK, that pattern applies to this cultivar: it will perform best where frost can be avoided. Give the plant a sheltered, bright position out of direct, scorching sun and away from drying winds when it is placed outdoors from late spring to early autumn. Many begonias respond well to a free-draining, humus-rich compost and consistent moisture without waterlogging; allow surface drying between thorough waterings rather than letting the compost remain sodden. A conservatory, bright windowsill or protected patio container lets you move the plant indoors before night-time temperatures fall. Flower production runs from June to October, making it suitable for seasonal displays on a sunny, sheltered terrace or as a summer specimen in a conservatory. Arrange plants where the flowering period can be appreciated, and bring them under cover in autumn to retain foliage until spring if you wish to preserve the plant for the following season.

More in the Begonia genus

• 
  Begonia 'Blitz'
• 
  Begonia 'Cascade Florence' (T/d)
• 
  Begonia 'Comtesse Louise Erdõdy' (R)
• 
  Begonia 'Otto Foster'
• 
  Begonia 'Phil Ormes'
• 
  Begonia 'Sparkle'
• 
  Begonia coccinea (C)angelwing begonia
• 
  Begonia cubensisCuban holly