Clubbed begonia facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Clubbed begonia |
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| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Begonia
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| Species: |
cucullata
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| Synonyms | |
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Begonia cucullata var. cucullata |
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Begonia cucullata, often called the wax begonia, is a popular plant found in many gardens. It belongs to the Begoniaceae family. This plant is originally from South America, growing naturally in countries like Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay.
A scientist named Carl Ludwig Willdenow first described this plant in 1805. The name "cucullata" means "hooded" or "resembling a hood," which might refer to the shape of some parts of the plant.
Contents
What Does the Wax Begonia Look Like?
The wax begonia is a plant that grows upright. It is a perennial, meaning it lives for more than two years. Its leaves are thick and juicy, often pale green or reddish-brown. They are shaped like an oval, about 4–8 cm long and 6 cm wide. The leaves are smooth, shiny, and have small teeth along their edges.
This plant is often used as a groundcover, spreading out to cover the ground. Its flowers can be red, pink, or white. They usually bloom in the summer, but in warmer places, they can flower all year long. After the flowers, the plant produces fruits that have three small wings.
Where Does the Wax Begonia Grow?
The wax begonia is native to South America. However, it has also started growing in other places where it wasn't originally found, like Florida and Georgia in the United States. In these areas, it can sometimes become an invasive species. This means it spreads quickly and can take over areas where native plants used to grow.
You might find wax begonias growing in places like roadsides, areas where forests have been cut down, or pastures where animals have grazed a lot. They spread easily because they produce many tiny seeds. These seeds are the main way the plant moves to new places. Begonias can also grow new plants from their stems, but this is less common in nature.
Growing Wax Begonias in Your Garden
Wax begonias are quite easy to grow. Older types of these plants prefer shady spots. However, newer types have been developed that can grow well in both full sun and shade.
If you want to grow them indoors, a window that faces south or east is usually best. Just make sure to slowly get the plant used to its new indoor environment if you move it from outside.
Different Types of Wax Begonias
The "wax begonia" you often see in stores is actually a special kind. It's a hybrid called Begonia × semperflorens-cultorum. This hybrid was created by mixing at least five different Begonia species, including B. cucullata. The name "wax begonia" comes from the thick, waxy feel of its leaves.
Scientists have identified several natural varieties of Begonia cucullata. Here are some of them:
- Begonia cucullata var. cucullata
- Begonia cucullata var. hookeri
- Begonia cucullata var. spatulata
- Begonia cucullata var. subcucullata
- Begonia cucullata var. arenosicola
- Begonia cucullata var. sellowii
Gallery
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Botanical illustration of a wax begonia variety.
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Wax begonia growing in its natural home.
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A wax begonia plant in the wild.
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Wax begonia at a botanical garden.
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See also
In Spanish: Begonia cucullata para niños
