Begonias are a favorite among home gardeners for their long bloom time, colorful flowers, and ability to thrive in both sun and shade. They grow well in garden beds, containers, hanging baskets, and even indoors, making them one of the most versatile flowering plants you can grow.
Many begonia varieties are low-maintenance, heat-tolerant, and bloom continuously from spring until frost. From bold flowering types to foliage-focused plants, these are the best begonia varieties to grow in your backyard.
1. Wax Begonias (Begonia semperflorens)
Wax begonias are one of the most common and easiest begonias to grow. They have glossy green or bronze leaves and small flowers in red, pink, or white. These begonias perform well in garden beds and containers and tolerate both sun and partial shade, making them a go-to choice for beginners.
2. Tuberous Begonias
Tuberous begonias are known for their large, showy blooms that resemble roses or camellias. They thrive in shaded or partially shaded areas and are perfect for hanging baskets and containers. These begonias bloom heavily throughout the summer but require well-drained soil and protection from frost.
3. Dragon Wing Begonias
Dragon Wing begonias produce cascading flowers and wing-shaped leaves on sturdy plants. They are very heat-tolerant and perform well in both containers and garden beds. This variety blooms continuously and requires very little maintenance once established.
4. Angel Wing Begonias
Angel wing begonias are loved for their elegant foliage, often dotted with silver or white spots. They grow upright and produce clusters of hanging flowers. This variety works well in containers and sheltered garden areas and can also be grown indoors.
5. Rex Begonias
Rex begonias are grown mainly for their dramatic foliage rather than flowers. Their leaves feature bold colors, patterns, and textures. They prefer shade and are ideal for containers, patios, and indoor growing where humidity can be controlled.
6. Fibrous Begonias
Fibrous begonias include many common garden varieties with strong stems and continuous blooms. They are very adaptable and grow well in beds, borders, and containers. These begonias are easy to care for and tolerate a range of growing conditions.
7. Boliviensis Begonias
Boliviensis begonias are trailing plants with bright, tubular flowers that hang gracefully over baskets and containers. They thrive in partial shade and bloom nonstop through the summer. This variety is perfect for adding movement and color to elevated planters.
8. Hardy Begonias (Begonia grandis)
Hardy begonias are one of the few begonia types that can survive colder climates. They die back in winter and return in spring. This variety produces soft pink flowers and prefers shady garden beds with rich, well-drained soil.
9. Double Begonias
Double begonias feature layered petals that give them a full, rose-like appearance. They are commonly found among tuberous begonia types and work best in containers and hanging baskets. These begonias prefer shade and consistent moisture.
10. Nonstop Begonias
Nonstop begonias are a popular tuberous variety bred for continuous blooming. They produce large flowers in a wide range of colors and are ideal for pots and baskets. This variety is valued for its reliability and long flowering season.
11. Illumination Begonias
Illumination begonias are trailing tuberous begonias with vibrant, cascading flowers. They are excellent for hanging baskets and elevated containers. These begonias bloom heavily and prefer bright, indirect light or partial shade.
12. Rieger Begonias
Rieger begonias are compact plants with bright, long-lasting flowers. They are often grown indoors but can be used outdoors in containers during warm weather. This variety prefers cooler temperatures and indirect sunlight.
13. Picotee Begonias
Picotee begonias feature flowers with contrasting edges, giving them a striking, decorative look. They are typically tuberous begonias and perform best in containers and shaded garden areas. This variety adds visual interest and elegance to backyard displays.
14. Big Begonias
Big begonias are larger versions of wax begonias, growing taller and wider. They are excellent for filling garden beds and providing bold color throughout the season. These begonias tolerate sun better than many other types and are very low maintenance.
15. Pendula Begonias
Pendula begonias have drooping stems and large, colorful flowers that hang downward. They are ideal for hanging baskets and raised planters. This variety prefers shade and produces a dramatic, cascading display all summer long.
Jamie is the founder of The Backyard Pros. When he was 15 years old he started working at a garden centre helping people buy plants, gardening products, and lawn care products. He has real estate experience and he is a home owner. Jamie loves backyard projects, refinishing furniture, and enjoys sharing his knowledge online.