Begonia Red Giant

Description

Begonia Red Giant is a beautiful flowering houseplant that belongs to the Begoniaceae family. It is a hybrid of Begonia boliviensis and Begonia coccinea that was created by the Dutch breeder De Goede in 1998. This plant is popular for its stunning red-orange flowers that bloom from spring to fall. The leaves of Begonia Red Giant are also attractive, with a glossy green surface and a red underside.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Begonia Red Giant grows up to 2 feet tall and 1 foot wide. It has a bushy growth habit with a cascading form. The flowers are single or double and measure up to 2 inches in diameter. The petals are red-orange with a yellow center. The leaves are asymmetrical and measure up to 6 inches long and 4 inches wide. They have a glossy green surface with a red underside. The stems of Begonia Red Giant are slender and succulent.

Care Guide

Begonia Red Giant is easy to care for and can be grown indoors or outdoors. Here is a detailed care guide:

Water

Water Begonia Red Giant when the soil feels dry to the touch. Do not overwater as this can lead to root rot. Water from the bottom to prevent wetting the leaves.

Fertilization

Fertilize Begonia Red Giant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Do not fertilize during the winter months.

Soil

Use well-draining soil for Begonia Red Giant. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite works well.

Sunlight

Begonia Red Giant prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves.

Hardiness Zones

Begonia Red Giant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11. It can be grown as an annual in cooler climates.

Common Pests & Diseases

Begonia Red Giant is susceptible to pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. It can also be affected by powdery mildew and botrytis. To prevent these problems, keep the plant clean and well-ventilated. Use an insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat pests. Prune infected leaves and stems to prevent the spread of disease.

Habitat

Begonia Red Giant is native to South America, particularly Bolivia and Peru. It grows in moist, well-drained soil in shaded areas such as forests and riverbanks.

Question and Answer

Q: How often should I water Begonia Red Giant?

A: Water Begonia Red Giant when the soil feels dry to the touch.

Q: Can Begonia Red Giant be grown outdoors?

A: Yes, Begonia Red Giant can be grown outdoors in USDA zones 9-11.

Q: What should I do if my Begonia Red Giant gets powdery mildew?

A: To prevent powdery mildew, keep the plant clean and well-ventilated. Use a fungicidal spray to treat the affected areas.

Q: Can I propagate Begonia Red Giant?

A: Yes, Begonia Red Giant can be propagated through stem cuttings or leaf cuttings.

Related Plants

• Begonia boliviensis
• Begonia coccinea
• Begonia grandis
• Begonia rex

References

• “Begonia ‘Red Giant’.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed June 22, 2021.
  https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b936
• “Begonia Red Giant.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed June 22, 2021.
  https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/ornamentals/begonia-red-giant.html
• “Begonia Red Giant.” The Spruce. Accessed June 22, 2021.
  https://www.thespruce.com/grow-begonia-red-giant-indoors-1902776