Begonia at a glance
| Botanical name | Begonia species and hybrids |
|---|---|
| Family | Begoniaceae |
| Other names | wax begonia, tuberous begonia |
| Plant type | Flower; tender perennial grown as an annual |
| Size | 8 inches to 2 feet tall, 9 inches to 1 foot wide |
| Light | Part shade (2 to 6 hours of sun); Shade (under 2 hours of direct sun) |
| Water | Keep the soil lightly moist but never soggy. |
| Soil | Moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. |
| USDA hardiness zones | Grown as a summer annual in most zones; perennial only in zones 10 and 11. |
| USDA PLANTS symbol | BEGON |
When to plant begonia
Plant outside after the last frost when nights are warm.
Turn these into real dates for your area with the planting calendar.
How to grow begonia
- Plant in partial shade after frost.
- Use a rich, well-drained mix in pots.
- Water when the top of the soil starts to dry.
- Feed lightly every few weeks.
- Bring favorite plants indoors before frost.
Water and soil
Water: Keep the soil lightly moist but never soggy.
Soil: Moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter.
Light: Part shade (2 to 6 hours of sun); Shade (under 2 hours of direct sun).
Common problems
- Stem rot
- Caused by soggy soil. Improve drainage and water less.
- Powdery mildew
- White patches on leaves; improve air flow.
Is begonia safe for cats and dogs?
Toxic
Toxic
The ASPCA lists Begonia (Begonia spp.) as toxic to cats and toxic to dogs. Signs it lists include: kidney failure (in grazing animals), vomiting, salivation in dogs/cats. ASPCA entry.
NC State Extension rates its poison severity for people and animals as low.
If a pet chews a plant and you are worried, call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435; a fee may apply). For people, call Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222. In an emergency, call 911.
Can you eat begonia?
Treat as not edible around pets; the ASPCA lists begonia as toxic.
Begonia questions
Are begonias poisonous to pets?
Yes. The ASPCA lists begonias as toxic to cats and dogs, and notes the underground parts are the most toxic.
Do begonias like sun or shade?
Most prefer partial shade. Wax begonias handle more sun than tuberous begonias.
Can begonias grow indoors?
Yes, many begonias grow well as houseplants in bright, indirect light.
Sources
- NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox: Begonia (size, light, soil, zones, poison rating)
- USDA PLANTS Database profile: Begonia L. (accepted name)
- ASPCA: Begonia (pet toxicity)
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: plants toxic and non-toxic to cats
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: plants toxic and non-toxic to dogs
Written in our own words from the sources above. See our editorial policy. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.
