What: Begonia — nothing says “summer” like a collection of tuberous begonias and the time is here to begin our treasure hunt for the tubers that will transform a shady area into a spot reminiscent of the tropics. Over the years, the color palette for begonias has grown dramatically. You can now find color selections including light pink, orange, apricot, yellow, reds and two- tones; flowers are either bell-shaped, frilly or scalloped. The bloom styles range from doubles to singles, and the leaves are just as interesting as the flowers. Leaves can be mottled, variegated, palmate, serrated, quilted or velvety. Begonias offer more color and texture for shade than most plant groups and deserve consideration for all they can bring to our gardens. They are tender in our climate, but can be easily over-wintered in an unheated garage undisturbed in their pots.
Size: 1 feet to 2 feet in a pot
Where: These plants require light shade
Learn more: Peruse the Terra Nova Nursery catalog for photos and plant information. They are an Oregon grower and this catalog will give a glimpse of what will be in the nurseries; www.terranovanurseries.com.
For more information, read “Tuberous Begonias,” an essential guide by Jack Larter
— Sandra Schumacher
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