Begonia Shrub Like

Species & Hybrids This page is presented by Society Vice Chairman Jeff Rhodes.
Species Species are botanical plants that grow naturally. When a species begonia is crossed with another of the same variety the resulting plants will come true. Hybrids Hybrids are the result of crossing two different varieties. The only way to reproduce a hybrid is by vegetative means.
Shrub-like
. Covers a wide variety of begonias, some of which are rather unusual. Many are grown for their beautiful foliage, which comes in a variety of textures, shapes and colours. They branch quite freely from the base, and need regular pinching and pruning to maintain a symmetrical plant. Some varieties make ideal basket plants. Light levels are important for shrub-like begonias; different types of leaf surface need different light levels. Too much light will give undersized pale foliage, too little will give oversized dark-coloured foliage.The hairy leaf types will accept more light than the distinctive foliage types. All will need protection from mid-day sun. Temperature. 55 to 70 F is ideal for most. Humidity. In general 40 to 60% .The distinctive foliage types will need to be higher. Compost must be open and well drained, using a shallow pot for small plants. Feed regularly with a balanced fertilizer Propagation is by tip or stem cuttings
Tea Rose
	. A semi-erect hybrid introduced in 1947, a cross from B.odorata var alba x B.dichroa. Bare leaved, medium leaved. Light pink fragrant flowers are produced in abundance throughout the year. Very easy to grow. This variety makes an ideal basket plant. Propagates very easily from tip cuttings. .
B.metallica
	. A tall growing shrub-like species that originates from Brazil. The medium sized dark green leaves have a metallic bronze sheen, and are covered with fine white hairs. Flowers, which form in large clusters from the leaf axils are blush white, with thickly set red hairs on the back of the petals. Fairly easy to grow and will flower throughout the year. Makes an ideal houseplant, favouring a north-facing window.
B.luxurians
	A tall growing, shrub-like, species begonia, quite unlike any other. It has very divided, palm-like leaves on long red stems, with a small cluster of leaves sprouting from the centre of each leaf. Flowers are small and creamy on long stemmed clusters, having a slight fragrance.
Cane like Rhizomatous Tuberous / Semi tuberous Thick stemmed Rex cultorum SPECIES & HYBRIDS TITLE PAGE