Illumination Scarlet Tuberous Begonia
Begonia x tuberhybrida 'Illumination Scarlet'
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Bulb Corm Tuber
Height
12 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
High
Lifespan
Tender perennial
Native To
South America (hybrid origin)
Toxicity
Toxic to pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Tuberous begonias (Begonia x tuberhybrida) are tender perennials grown for their showy flowers, which come in a vast array of colors and forms. They typically have succulent stems and fleshy, often asymmetrical leaves. This cultivar is part of the 'Illumination' series, known for a cascading or trailing habit ideal for hanging baskets. It produces a profusion of large, double, scarlet-red flowers from summer to frost.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck tubers into well-draining soil in early spring for best growth.
- Mist cuttings lightly to maintain humidity and encourage rooting.
- Water regularly, keeping soil moist but not waterlogged during active growth.
- Apply balanced fertilizer monthly to promote vibrant flowering.
- Remove spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering.
- Lift and store tubers indoors in fall after foliage dies back.
Pro Tip
Use a humid environment and indirect light for thriving cuttings and tubers.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently to keep soil evenly moist 💧
- Fertilize monthly during the growing season 🌱
- Remove dead or faded flowers to promote new blooms
- Provide bright, indirect light for optimal flowering
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent tuber rot ❌
- Do not expose to direct, harsh sunlight which can scorch leaves
- Skip fertilizing in winter when growth slows
- Never forget to lift tubers before frost to prevent damage
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Lift Store | ||||||||||||
| Plant |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Illumination Scarlet Tuberous Begonia questions
What zones can Illumination Scarlet Tuberous Begonia grow in?
Illumination Scarlet Tuberous Begonia is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Illumination Scarlet Tuberous Begonia deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Illumination Scarlet Tuberous Begonia, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Illumination Scarlet Tuberous Begonia bloom?
Illumination Scarlet Tuberous Begonia typically blooms in summer to fall through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Illumination Scarlet Tuberous Begonia need full sun?
Illumination Scarlet Tuberous Begonia does best in part shade.
More Begonia to compare
Solenia Chocolate Orange Begonia
Begonia x hybrida 'Solenia Chocolate Orange'
Mistral Pink Begonia
Begonia begonia 'Mistral Pink'
Smooch Begonia
Begonia x tuberhybrida 'Smooch'
Picotee Tuberous Begonia
Begonia x tuberhybrida 'Picotee Mix'
Wildwood Purity Begonia
Begonia grandis 'Wildwood Purity'
Wildwood Premier Begonia
Begonia grandis 'Wildwood Premier'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Illumination Scarlet Tuberous Begonia with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
