Begonia 'River Nile' typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.
begonia
Begonia 'River Nile'
The Begonia 'River Nile' is an amazing plant species due to its beautiful colors and impressive hardiness. Its striking pink and white flowers trailing from its long stems will brighten up any room or garden. This attractive variety is also very easy to care for and can be grown in temperatures as low as 58°F. It loves the sun, so it's great for brightening up darker areas, and loves to be watered regularly. Its foliage is a rich deep green, making it perfect for borders or raised beds and it's sure to add an exotic touch to any garden.
Cycle:
Herbaceous Perennial
Watering:
Average
Propagation:
Stem Propagation,Leaf Cutting,Division,Air Layering Propagation
Hardiness Zone:
10 - 11
Flowers:
White Flowers
Sun:
part shade,part sun/part shade
Leaf:
Yes
Growth Rate:
Low
Maintenance:
Moderate
Indoors:
Yes
Care Level:
Medium
watering
Begonias 'River Nile' should be watered about once a week, allowing the soil to dry out a bit between waterings. You'll know it's time to water when the soil feels dry to the touch. During warm weather, water your Begonia 'River Nile' twice a week, or even more if the weather is especially hot or humid. If you observe wilting, you can increase the frequency a bit or mist the leaves. Make sure not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
sunlight
Begonia 'River Nile' requires bright, indirect light for optimal growth. It prefers to be located near a south or west-facing window if possible, and may even need some protection from harsh mid-day sun. If kept indoors, it should be located in an area that receives 8 hours of indirect sunlight a day, such as a bright room with windows on 2 or 3 walls. When grown outdoors in warmer climates, it should be located in a sheltered area that receives morning and afternoon sun but is shaded from any intense midday sun.
pruning
Pruning should generally take place in the spring and summer months. In the spring, prune any damaged or dead foliage and flower stems. In the summer, prune to promote new growth and shape the bush. Always use sharp pruning shears and make sure to sterilize them before and after use. Prune only up to 1-third of the bush at a time to avoid over-exertion.
Season
Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering
Starts Flowering
Begonia 'River Nile' typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.
Hardiness Map
FAQ
Could Begonias be grown indoors?
Yes, Begonias can be grown indoors in a bright, sunny area. Begonias do best in temperatures between 60-70F and require a lot of moisture for healthy growth so consistent watering is key. They prefer indirect light and should be placed in a spot where they will receive indirect sunlight from a window or artificial lights that are around 12-14 hours each day. Begonias should also be fertilized with a house plant fertilizer once every 2 weeks and have their soil monitored to ensure proper drainage.
Are Begonias frost-tolerant?
Begonias are not typically very frost tolerant plants. While they can tolerate temperatures that dip slightly below the freezing mark, they cannot handle sustained cold temperatures or extended periods of frost. If you live in a region that experiences cold winters, it is best to treat your begonias as annuals and replant them in the spring and summer months.
Should Begonias be deadheaded regularly?
Yes, Begonias should be deadheaded regularly to support lush blooming and encourage healthy plants. Deadheading involves trimming off dead flowers and foliage and can be done with scissors or by pinching stems between your fingers. This helps promote new blooms and ensures Begonias remain healthy and vigorous. While the act itself is simple, it is important to deadhead regularly and consistently to keep your Begonia looking its best.
Could Begonias be propagated by stem cuttings?
Yes, begonias can be propagated by stem cuttings. To do so, use scissors or a sharp knife to cut the stem just below a node - that is the place on the stem where the leaves are growing. Make sure you have at least two set of leaves on each cutting and a few centimetres of stem above each node. Once you have your cuttings, remove the lower leaves and dip the cut ends into rooting hormone to encourage root growth. Then place the cutting into a moist peat moss and cover the pot with a clear plastic bag. Keep the pot in bright indirect light and make sure it's kept moist, misting it occasionally. After a few weeks, you should see roots beginning to form. Once the roots are established, you can transfer the plant to a pot with its permanent home.
Do Begonias have a strong scent?
No, Begonias do not have a strong scent. They have a thin, mild scent that is not especially overpowering or noticeable, especially when compared to other flowers such as roses or jasmine. Begonias are primarily known for their wide variety of colors, textures and sizes, rather than their scent.
Are Begonias invasive?
No, Begonias are not invasive. Begonias are classified as "tender perennials" and they remain in the same place year-round. While they can spread in favorable growing conditions, they are not considered an invasive species, as they are not capable of forming large colonies that can out-compete native vegetation. Begonias require consistent and frequent care as they do not survive heavy pruning, drought, or extreme heat or cold.
Could Begonias be grown from seeds?
Yes, begonias can be grown from seeds. They are easy to sow, and can be started indoors or outdoors. Starting begonia seeds indoors is recommended since they take a while to germinate and grow. Begonias need light to germinate, so keep in mind to sow the seeds shallowly and not to cover them with soil. Additionally, water the soil regularly to ensure it doesn't dry out and be sure to use a soilless seed starting mix for optimum germination.
Is Begonia a good plant for a shady garden?
Yes, Begonia is indeed a great plant for a shady garden. Its showy, brightly colored blooms will add some brightness to the area, and its easy-to-care-for nature means you won't have to worry about maintenance. Its shallow roots and bushy nature makes it the perfect plant for adding texture and interest to a garden. With its delicate leaves and vibrant blooms, the Begonia is perfect for providing a surprising pop of color to a shady garden.
