Wax Begonia

Wax begonia (*Begonia cucullata*) is a compact, fleshy-stemmed species with rounded, toothed leaves and small flowers that can range from white to pink. It is native to South America, where it grows in warm, wet tropical habitats; in cooler climates it is best used as a seasonal bedding plant or protected container plant. ## Form and growing conditions Kew accepts *Begonia cucullata* as a species native from Bolivia through Brazil to northern Argentina. North Carolina Extension describes wax begonia forms as mounded and succulent, with green-to-bronze foliage and loose flower clusters that may bloom from spring until frost. Its cultivar notes describe *B. cucullata* var. *cucullata* as compact, with cordate leaves and white-to-pink flowers. The extension's typical wax-begonia garden size is about 6–12 inches high and wide; conditions and cultivar selection affect the result. Wax begonia hybrids are related to this species but are not the same taxon. ## Placement Use in small borders, edging, window boxes, or containers. Provide moist, humus-rich soil that drains freely; light can range from sun to shade, with bronze-leaved selections generally better in sunnier sites. The species is tropical and not reliably winter hardy in freezing climates. ## Maintenance Keep soil evenly moist during active growth without leaving roots waterlogged. In cold-winter regions, grow as an annual or bring containers indoors before frost. Remove declining foliage and watch for mealybugs, thrips, rot, and fungal problems in crowded or persistently wet conditions.