A Beginner's Guide to Begonias: Classification and Diversity
photo of a begonia variety with large orange flowers
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How to Cite

Ginori, Julian, Alfred Huo, and Caroline R Warwick. 2020. “A Beginner’s Guide to Begonias: Classification and Diversity: ENH1317/EP581, 1/2020”. EDIS 2020 (1). Gainesville, FL. https://doi.org/10.32473/edis-ep581-2020.

Abstract

Begonia is the fifth largest genus of flowering plants with over 1,800 species and hybrids. Begonias are known by their bright, full flowers and also their leaves, which vary to showcase patterns, designs or color. Begonias have a pan-tropical distribution, occupying the tropical regions of every continent except Australia. Begonias are commonly used in the landscape, although their heat tolerance makes them more desirable as a potted plant or houseplant in Florida. Begonias thrive best in partially-shaded areas, as they are sensitive to bright light and should be protected from the Florida summers in particular. Begonias grow in USDA Hardiness Zones 3 – 11, and are often used as hanging baskets, flowerpots, garden beds, and in the landscape (Gardening Solutions 2019). This EDIS publication is for Florida gardeners and horticulturalists hoping to learn more about the different classifications of begonias, as well as those interested in learning more about this potential landscape or houseplant.
https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ep581

https://doi.org/10.32473/edis-ep581-2020
view on EDIS
PDF-2020

References

Gardening Solutions (2019, July 22). Begonias. Retrieved from http://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/ornamentals/begonias.html

Hvoslef-Eide AK, Munster C. Begonia: History and Breeding. Flower Breeding and Genetics. 2007:241-275. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4020-4428-1_9

Dewitte A, Twyford AD, Thomas DC, Kidner CA, Huylenbroeck JV. The Origin of Diversity in Begonia: Genome Dynamism, Population Processes and Phylogenetic Patterns. The Dynamical Processes of Biodiversity - Case Studies of Evolution and Spatial Distribution. 2011. https://doi.org/10.5772/23789

Doorenbos J, Sosef MSM, Wilde JJFE de. The Sections of Begonia: Including Descriptions, Keys and Species Lists. Wageningen: Agricultural University; 1998.

Neale S, Goodall-Copestake W, Kidner CA. The Evolution of Diversity in Begonia. Floriculture, Ornamental and Plant Biotechnology. 2006;IV:606-611.

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