Begonias, belonging to the genus Begonia, represent one of the most diverse and extensive groups of flowering plants in the world, with over 2,000 species and countless hybrids. Their incredible variation in form, foliage, and flowering habit allows them to occupy a wide range of ecological niches. From a botanical perspective, they are primarily classified by their root structures and growth habits, which directly influence their cultivation needs and aesthetic appeal.
From a botanical standpoint, Rex Begonias are celebrated not for their flowers, but for their spectacular and complex foliage. They are rhizomatous begonias, meaning they grow from a modified, horizontal stem called a rhizome that creeps along or just below the soil surface. This rhizome serves as a storage organ and a point from which roots and leaves emerge. The leaves are the main attraction, displaying a breathtaking array of colors, patterns, and textures. Botanically, these patterns are the result of intricate pigmentation and structural iridescence. The leaves are often asymmetrical (a common trait in begonias), heart-shaped, and can feature swirling combinations of silver, pink, purple, green, and maroon. The small, inconspicuous flowers are often removed by growers to direct all the plant's energy into sustaining its magnificent foliage.
Tuberous Begonias are defined by their unique subterranean storage organ: the tuber. Botanically, a tuber is a swollen, underground stem that stores nutrients, allowing the plant to survive periods of dormancy, typically through winter. This life cycle is a key identifier. The plant dies back to the tuber in autumn and re-sprouts in spring. Tuberous Begonias are renowned for their exceptionally showy, often double flowers that resemble roses, camellias, or carnations. These flowers can be immense, some reaching over 8 inches in diameter, and come in almost every color except blue. The plants have succulent stems and asymmetrical, often wing-shaped leaves. Due to their specific dormancy requirement and preference for cool, humid summers, they have precise cultivation needs distinct from other begonia types.
Angel Wing Begonias are classified as "cane-like" due to their distinct growth habit. They develop long, jointed stems that resemble bamboo canes. These sturdy, upright stems allow the plant to grow quite tall and are where the leaves and flower clusters emerge. The leaves themselves are the defining feature; they are asymmetrical, elongated, and often pointed, with a shape reminiscent of an angel's wing. The foliage is typically spotted or speckled with silver or white and has a textured surface. Botanically, they are evergreen shrubs that do not have a dormant period like tuberous begonias. They produce large, dangling clusters of flowers, which can be red, pink, white, or orange, throughout much of the year under optimal conditions.
Wax Begonias are primarily fibrous-rooted begonias, meaning they have a standard, branching root system without specialized storage organs like tubers or prominent rhizomes. This makes them relatively tough and adaptable. They form compact, mounded plants with succulent stems and rounded, glossy leaves. The common name "Wax" refers to the thick, waxy cuticle on the leaves, which is a botanical adaptation to reduce water loss, making them exceptionally heat and drought tolerant for begonias. They are prolific bloomers, continuously producing masses of small, single or double flowers in shades of white, pink, and red. Their botanical resilience, combined with their non-stop flowering habit, makes them a staple for mass bedding displays and container gardens.
