perennial

Sutherland's Begonia

Begonia sutherlandii

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

8 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

South Africa

Toxicity

Non-toxic

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.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesAdds lush greenery and attractive foliage to shaded garden areas.
Practical UsesThrives in containers and shaded spots, reducing garden maintenance.
Ecological BenefitsProvides habitat for beneficial insects and pollinators.

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds or cuttings into moist soil in spring.
  2. Maintain consistent moisture for healthy growth.
  3. Place in partial shade to protect from direct sun.
  4. Fertilize monthly during active growth season.
  5. Mulch around base to retain soil moisture.
  6. 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

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Lift Store
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded border with variegated leavesContainer plant for shaded patios

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Caladiums Heuchera Impatiens

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. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

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 summer through 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.

Keep exploring

Explore the genus

Collections featuring this plant

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.