Red, white and blue

This genus has more than 2,000 species many grown for their leaf shapes and patterns, but the showy flowering varieties are the tuberous begonias, the most popular being the "Elatior" hybrids. Keep them in a light spot at not less than 18ºC and water sparingly in winter but generously in summer. Do not turn the pot or buds will drop. A good tip is to place a match head-down to mark the front of the pot and the sulphur from the match head will guard against mildew to which it is prone.

Often viewed as dated, a red or bright coloured flowering begonia can take on modern chic in a bold mosaic pot.

>>Click here to link to begonia plant facts