Wax Begonia — Growing reference
| Scientific name | Begonia x semperflorens-cultorum |
|---|---|
| Seed germination (days) | 14–21 |
| Soil temperature for germination (°C) | 21.1–23.9 |
| First harvest or flowering (days) | 90–120 |
| Measured from | Transplant |
| Plant spacing (cm) | 20.3–30.5 |
| Mature height (cm) | 15.2–30.5 |
| Mature spread (cm) | 20.3–30.5 |
| USDA hardiness zones | 2–11 |
| Light | Partial sun |
| Water | Moderate |
| Sowing method | indoor-start |
Growing directions
Surface sow seed on moistened fine-textured starting mix at 70°F and cover the tray with plastic to retain humidity — seeds need light and consistent moisture to germinate. Seedlings emerge in 2–3 weeks and are among the slowest-growing bedding plants; prick out when cotyledons are fully open and grow on under bright lights. Wax begonias flower continuously from transplant until hard frost without deadheading, making them among the most reliable shade-tolerant bedding annuals. Green-leaved types tolerate deeper shade; bronze-leaved types handle more sun and heat. In zones 10–11 they naturalize as tender perennials; elsewhere take cuttings in fall to overwinter on a sunny windowsill.
Source and local conditions
Typical planning ranges from OpenPlantDB (CC0). Cultivar, climate, season and growing method can change these values. Confirm the seed label and local guidance before planting.
Source & verification
OpenPlantDB · CC0