Begonia Elatior | Begonia x hiemalis

Assorted Color Options. Elatior begonia (Begonia x hiemalis) is a fast-growing flowering plant with fleshy, heart-shaped green foliage and blossoms that come in vibrant yellow, orange, red, pink, coral, and white colors. This hybrid category of begonias was created by crossing tuberous begonia with a wax begonia, and is a close relative of the rex begonia.

Begonias in this group were originally bred as annuals to bloom during the winter season, and mostly designated as houseplants. However, the elatior begonia is a perennial plant capable of blooming all year long, and in addition to growing indoors, can make an excellent addition to an outdoor container garden or window box.

Light Requirement: Elatior begonia plants are commonly grown as indoor houseplants, where they thrive in bright, indirect light. Choose an area in your home for your elatior begonia where it will not be exposed to direct sunlight, which will burn and damage leaves and blossoms, as well as make them grow too leggy.

Soil Requirement: Well-drained, rich potting mix.

Water Requirement: Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering your elatior begonia. Depending on the environment, you should water the plant about once every five to seven days.