Begonia – Rieger
Symbolism: The begonia represents caution and consideration, as well as good communication between different parties. It is often given as a gift to repay a favour, symbolizing thoughtfulness and gratitude.
Description: Rieger begonias are stunning winter-flowering plants with creamy blooms in an array of bright colours, such as yellows, reds, pinks, and white. Their captivating appearance makes them a popular choice for indoor gardens and potted plant displays.
Named after: The genus name Begonia was given by Charles Plumier, a French patron of botany, and later adopted by Linnaeus in 1753 to honor Michel Bégon, a former governor of the French colony of Saint-Domingue (now Haiti).
Latin/Scientific name: Begonia x hiemalis
Native to: The original begonia is native to the warm, humid forests of New Guinea, southern Africa, and the Andes.
Flowering period: Rieger begonias are winter-flowering plants that need short days to bloom. Advances in cultivation have led to the development of everblooming begonia varieties, which can flower throughout the year.
Vase life: Not applicable, as begonia flowers are not commonly used in floral arrangements or bouquets due to their delicate nature.
Popular use in floral arrangements or bouquets: Not typically used in floral arrangements or bouquets, as begonias thrive best when undisturbed in their natural habitat or potted environments.
When in stock in our shops: Year round as part of our flowering indoor plant collection.
Potted plant care
Light
- Place your potted Rieger Begonia plant in a location that receives bright, indirect sunlight.
- Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves.
- Rieger Begonias can also be grown under fluorescent lights if natural light is not sufficient.
Soil
- Use a well-draining potting mix that contains perlite or vermiculite to ensure proper drainage.
- Rieger Begonias prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5.
Water
- Water your Rieger Begonia plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
- Water the plant thoroughly and allow excess water to drain out of the pot.
- Keep the soil evenly moist, but avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot.
Temperature & Humidity
- Rieger Begonias prefer warm temperatures (65-75°F, 18-24°C).
- They also prefer a humid environment, so placing a tray of water near the plant or using a humidifier can help maintain adequate humidity levels.
Feeding
- Fertilize your Rieger Begonia plant every 2-4 weeks with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer).
- Avoid fertilizing during the winter months when the plant is dormant.
Transitioning Indoors to Outdoors
- Rieger Begonias are typically grown indoors and are not suited for outdoor growing.
- It is not recommended to transition Rieger Begonia plants from indoors to outdoors.
