perennial

Double Up Red Begonia

Begonia semperflorens 'Double Up Red'

The Story

Plant Bio

Begonia semperflorens, or wax begonia, is a fibrous-rooted, tender perennial typically grown as an annual. It forms a bushy mound of glossy leaves and produces continuous clusters of flowers from spring until frost.

The 'Double Up Red' cultivar is distinguished by its double, densely petaled red flowers that create a lush, ornamental appearance and enhance its appeal as a bedding or container plant.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesBright red flowers add vibrant color to shaded areas, enhancing garden aesthetics.
Practical UsesDrought tolerant and low-maintenance, ideal for busy gardeners.
Ecological BenefitsProvides nectar for pollinators like insects and hummingbirds.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

10 inches

Width

10 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Prefers high humidity

Lifespan

Tender perennial, usually grown as an annual

Native To

Brazil

Toxicity

Toxic to cats and dogs

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds or cuttings into moist soil in spring.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
  3. Ensure soil remains moist but well-drained during growth.
  4. Place in partial shade for best color development.
  5. Water consistently during hot months for continuous blooms.
  6. Deadhead spent flowers to promote new blooms.

Pro Tip

Use well-draining, rich soil and keep soil consistently moist for best growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
  • Deadhead flowers to encourage more blooms
  • Place in partial shade for optimal color

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
  • Don’t expose to direct, harsh sunlight
  • Skip fertilizing in winter

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Pest Check
Plant
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Colorful shaded borderPotted patio accentsFlowering groundcover

Companion Plants

Ferns CaladiumHostas ImpatiensColeus

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Double Up Red Begonia questions

What zones can Double Up Red Begonia grow in?

Double Up Red 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 Double Up Red Begonia deer resistant?

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

When does Double Up Red Begonia bloom?

Double Up Red Begonia typically blooms in late spring 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 Double Up Red Begonia need full sun?

Double Up Red Begonia does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Keep exploring

Explore the genus

Hardy in your zone?

Grow Double Up Red 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.