The Story
Plant Bio
Begonia boliviensis is a perennial flowering plant known for its vibrant, cascading clusters of orange-red flowers and lobed, textured foliage that adds visual interest to garden borders and containers.
This species is particularly admired for its long-lasting, brightly colored blooms and its ability to thrive in partial shade with well-drained, moist soil.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
15 inches
Width
15 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
9, 10
Water
Consistently moist
Humidity
High humidity preferred
Lifespan
Tender Perennial
Native To
South America
Toxicity
Toxic to pets
Bloom period
Mid-summer – Late summer
In flower about 2 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a shaded location with moist, well-draining soil.
- Tuck seeds or plant cuttings 1/4 inch deep in spring.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
- Water consistently to keep soil moist but not soggy.
- Fertilize monthly during growing season for vibrant blooms.
- Divide clumps every 2-3 years to promote healthy growth.
Pro Tip
Maintain consistent moisture and avoid direct sunlight for best results.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Keep soil moist 🌱
- Provide indirect light
- Fertilize monthly during active growth
- Divide plants every 2-3 years
Don't
- Avoid direct sunlight ❌
- Do not let soil dry out completely
- Avoid over-fertilizing
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Lift Store | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Propagate |
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
Bolivian Begonia questions
What zones can Bolivian Begonia grow in?
Bolivian 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 Bolivian Begonia deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Bolivian Begonia, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Bolivian Begonia bloom?
Bolivian Begonia typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Bolivian Begonia need full sun?
Bolivian Begonia does best in part shade.
More Begonia to compare
Picotee Tuberous Begonia
Begonia x tuberhybrida 'Picotee Mix'
Hardy Begonia
Begonia x tuberhybrida 'Hardy Begonia'
Mistral Pink Begonia
Begonia begonia 'Mistral Pink'
Wildwood Purity Begonia
Begonia grandis 'Wildwood Purity'
Smooch Begonia
Begonia x tuberhybrida 'Smooch'
Solenia Chocolate Orange Begonia
Begonia x hybrida 'Solenia Chocolate Orange'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Bolivian 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.