Wax Begonia
Begonia semperflorens — the tireless bedding begonia that blooms all year.
Origin
Section titled “Origin”An herbaceous perennial coming from mild biomes with no frost in South America. Blooms all year if it gets enough light. Semperflorens means “always flowering.”
Location
Section titled “Location”Prefers shade, some varieties tolerate full sun. Bring inside before nights go below 50 °F to a bright spot by the window without direct sunlight.
Watering
Section titled “Watering”Keep soil moist and leaves dry. Monthly liquid balanced fertiliser at half-strength, March to September.
Pruning
Section titled “Pruning”Pinch leggy shoots and spent flowers from April to September. Blooms on new growth, so pinching keeps it compact.
Repotting
Section titled “Repotting”During spring, cut back freely and trim roots. New cuttings go back into the same pot with fresh mix rather than nursing old woody stems. Shallow pots are fine as it roots near the surface.
Can also be rooted in a glass of water (2-3 weeks).