perennial

Wax Begonia

Begonia semperflorens 'Gene Daniels'

The Story

Plant Bio

A compact and colorful plant widely used in borders and containers.

This cultivar is known for its continuous blooming through the summer and attractive red flowers.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesBright, colorful foliage adds vibrancy to shaded gardens.
Practical UsesIdeal for container gardening and indoor displays.
Ecological BenefitsSupports pollinators with its nectar-rich flowers.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

12 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Tender perennial

Native To

Tropical regions

Toxicity

Mildly toxic

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring for best germination.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and root within 4 weeks.
  3. Transplant young plants after the last frost to a shaded spot.
  4. Water consistently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
  5. Fertilize monthly with a balanced liquid feed during growing season.
  6. Pinch back stems to promote bushier growth and remove dead leaves.

Pro Tip

Maintain high humidity and indirect light for optimal growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist 🌱
  • Provide bright, indirect light for healthy foliage
  • Use well-draining soil to prevent root rot
  • Fertilize monthly during active growth
  • Pinch back to encourage bushiness

Don't

  • Avoid direct sunlight that can scorch leaves ❌
  • Do not overwater, which can cause root rot
  • Skip fertilizing in winter when growth slows
  • Don’t let soil dry out completely
  • Avoid cold drafts that can damage the plant

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Plant
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Colorful shaded borderContainer display with vibrant foliage

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Caladiums Begonia rexImpatiens

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Wax Begonia questions

What zones can Wax Begonia grow in?

Wax Begonia is hardy in USDA Zone 10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Wax Begonia deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Wax Begonia, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Wax Begonia bloom?

Wax Begonia typically blooms in spring to frost through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Wax Begonia need full sun?

Wax Begonia does best in part shade.

Keep exploring

Explore the genus

Hardy in your zone?

Grow Wax 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.