COMMON NAME:
Begonia Sparkle, Bonfire, and Encanto
SCIENTIFIC NAME:
Tuberous begonia x begonia boliviensis
GROWER HINTS:
►All of these Hybrids from the Begonia boliviensis species form huge tubers that send up thick succulent stems each spring that are covered with hundreds of electric orange flowers. They are best known as Bonfire, the original variety from the Australian breeder Tesseler. Improved later varieties come along each year.
►They make a spectacular hanging basket and will bloom into early winter.Self cleaning and able to take more sun than the traditional tuberous begonia baskets. When your tuber comes up the next year be sure to pinch all the shoots at about 4 inches. Choose a spot with good air circulation. Enjoy all of the new varieties.
GROWTH HABITS:
►Habit is hanging with some upright tendencies. Like other tuberous begonias, these are dormant in the winter. They tend to be late starting to grow in spring. When they finally decide to emerge and put out new shoots resume watering and begin your new season feeding schedule. Very Important, as soon as any of your new growth shoots are about 4 inches long, pinch out the tips. This will give you the best compact good looking growth.
SHADE/SUN:
►All will take full sun along the coast and part sun inland.
FEEDING AND WATERING:
►Important,… Do not over water. Most tuberous type begonias like to get a little dry between watering, and this is especially true of the Boliviensis type. Feed regularly with Weidner’s Good Stuff fertilizer, Fish emulsion or any of your favorite blends.
FLOWER/FOLIAGE COLOR(S):
►Orange, red, white, yellow, pink salmon.
SEASON(S) CARRIED AT WEIDNERS:
►Spring/summer and into early fall
CONTAINER OR GROUND?
►Basket or container would be best
PARTICULAR PESTS:
►occasional mildew, Begonia Broad mite and of course aphids.
