Begonia tapatia (T) — Bushy

Overview

Begonia tapatia (T) is a bushy conservatory greenhouse in the genus Begonia, part of the Begoniaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Begonia tapatia (T) grows best in partial shade, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1c. Suggested uses include city and courtyard gardens, patio and container plants, cottage and informal garden and flower borders and beds.

About

Begonia tapatia is a bushy cultivar of the Begonia genus, which includes annuals, perennials, and shrubs with distinctive asymmetrical leaves and clusters of male and female flowers. This deciduous plant thrives in partial shade with a sheltered aspect, preferring moist but well-drained neutral loam soil. It is frost-tender and suited to cultivation in fertile, well-drained compost under bright indirect light. Begonia tapatia is ideal for city and courtyard gardens, patios, containers, cottage gardens, and flower borders, offering seasonal interest from spring through autumn.

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

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Begonia

Sunlight: Partial shade
Soil type: Loam
Soil pH: Neutral
Soil moisture: Moist but well-drained
Aspect: North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
Exposure: Sheltered
UK hardiness: H1c

Plant details

Begonia tapatia (T) size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Conservatory Greenhouse, Houseplants
Habit: Bushy
Foliage: Deciduous
Suggested uses: City and courtyard gardens, Patio and container plants, Cottage and informal garden, Flower borders and beds

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Begonia tapatia (T)

Propagation: Seed, stem, tip or leaf cuttings
Pest resistance: Caterpillars, mealy bugs, mites, glasshouse thrips, vine weevil, aphids
Disease resistance: Grey moulds, powdery mildews, stem rot, rhizome rot

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Begonia tapatia (T)?

Begonia tapatia (T) prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Begonia tapatia (T) need?

Begonia tapatia (T) grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

Is Begonia tapatia (T) hardy in the UK?

Begonia tapatia (T) has an RHS hardiness rating of H1c, meaning it needs a warm, frost-free position of 5–10°C and is best grown under glass in the UK.

How do I propagate Begonia tapatia (T)?

Seed, stem, tip or leaf cuttings.

More in the Begonia genus

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