B. heracleifolia is a rhizomatous species whose palmate leaves have white principal veins, a green inner zone and a darker outline. Their undersides are burgundy and the leaf stems are spotted with red. Flowers may be pale pink or white and are held in upright clusters
Begonias require regular water, but be careful not to over-water them. They thrive on humidity but be careful if misting leaves that they don't stay too wet and encourage powdery mildew. Let the soil surface become dry to the touch before watering.
Loam soil facilitates plant growth in three key ways. Aeration: The varied particle sizes in loam create a loosely-packed soil that allows oxygen to flow freely to plant roots. Nutrient retention: The presence of clay in loam ensures that nutrients cling to the soil, rather than being washed out by water.
The begonia foliage should be trimmed back, and the tubers can be dried and stored in a cool, dry location through winter, just as canna or dahlia bulbs are stored. Fibrous rooted and rhizomatous begonias do not die back once a year like tuberous begonias.
Select a location receiving more direct morning or evening sunlight than mid day sun. Early morning / late day sunlight is much cooler with less intense rays. By keeping begonias out of the midday direct sun, the plants have less stress, and will produce more blooms.
