The Story
Plant Bio
Begonia sutherlandii is a rhizomatous perennial with lush, glossy green foliage and distinctive red stems. It produces clusters of small, white, star-shaped flowers that add charm to shaded garden areas.
This species is prized for its vibrant red stems and its ability to thrive in shaded, moist environments, making it a popular choice for woodland gardens and container planting.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
8"
Width
12"
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Moderate
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
South Africa
Toxicity
Non-toxic
Bloom period
Early summer – Mid-summer
In flower about 2 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds or cuttings into moist soil in spring.
- Maintain consistent moisture for healthy growth.
- Place in partial shade to protect from direct sun.
- Fertilize monthly during active growth season.
- Mulch around base to retain soil moisture.
- Divide clumps every 2–3 years for rejuvenation.
Pro Tip
Ensure well-draining soil and avoid direct afternoon sun for best results.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
- Place in shaded or partial shade locations
- Fertilize monthly during growing season
- Divide every few years to maintain vigor
Don't
- Avoid direct harsh sunlight which can scorch leaves ❌
- Don’t let soil stay waterlogged
- Skip fertilizing in winter
- Don’t forget to mulch for moisture retention
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Lift Store | ||||||||||||
| Plant |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Sutherland's Begonia questions
What zones can Sutherland's Begonia grow in?
Sutherland's Begonia is hardy in USDA Zones 7–8: in that range it survives winter in the ground. Colder than Zone 7, grow it in a container you can move to shelter for the winter, or as an annual. Warmer than Zone 8, winter isn't the problem: it prefers colder winters, and summer heat can shorten its life.
Is Sutherland's Begonia deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Sutherland's Begonia, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Sutherland's Begonia bloom?
Sutherland's Begonia typically blooms in early to mid-summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Sutherland's Begonia need full sun?
Sutherland's 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 x hybrida 'Mistral Pink'
Wildwood Purity Begonia
Begonia grandis 'Wildwood Purity'
Rieger Begonia
Begonia x hiemalis 'Giant Camellia Mix'
Smooch Begonia
Begonia x tuberhybrida 'Smooch'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Sutherland's 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.