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Begonia spp. · Houseplant
A large family grown for bright flowers, patterned leaves or both. Most begonias like gentle light, even moisture and good air circulation. They do well indoors and in shady outdoor containers in summer.
💧WaterWhen the top 1 in is dry (estimated)
☀️LightBright, indirect light
🐾PetsToxic to pets
Care at a glance
- Light
- Bright indirect light; no harsh afternoon sun
- Water
- When the top 1 in is dry; never soggy
- Soil
- Light, peaty, well-drained mix
- Temperature
- Best 65–75 °F; keep above 55 °F
- Pot size
- Slightly wider than the root ball; shallow is fine
- Container
- Pot with drainage; plastic or ceramic
- Growth
- Moderate; flowering types bloom spring to autumn (estimated)
- Lifespan
- Perennial; tuberous types rest in winter
When?
Plant out in spring after nights stay above 55 °F, or keep indoors year-round. Start tuberous types indoors in late winter (estimated).
Step by step
- Give bright light out of strong direct sun.
- Water at the soil when the top inch dries; keep leaves dry.
- Let excess water drain fully; roots rot easily.
- Space plants so air moves freely around the leaves.
- Feed every 2–4 weeks with a diluted fertilizer in the growing season.
- Pinch stem tips to keep cane and shrub types bushy.
- Remove faded flowers and any yellowing leaves.
- Take stem or leaf cuttings in spring to make new plants.
Common problems
White powder on leavesPowdery mildew; improve airflow and remove affected leaves.
Stems collapse at soil levelStem rot from overwatering; water less and use a lighter mix.
Leggy stems, few flowersLow light; move to a brighter spot and pinch back.
Brown, crispy leaf edgesDry air or sun scorch; raise humidity and shade from hot sun.
Pets
Begonia is listed as toxic to cats and dogs; the underground parts are the most irritating. Keep it out of reach. If in doubt, ask your vet.
Related tools
Similar plants
Sources
This page is general guidance; no pesticide doses are given.