Commmon Name:
Begonia Sparkle, Bonfire, and Encanto
Scientific Name:
Tuberous begonia x begonia boliviensis
Flower/Foliage Picture:
Begonia Sparkle
B.Encanto
Plant Picture:
Coming soon
Evelyn's Notes:
Hybrids from the Begonia boliviensis species form huge tubers that send up thick succulent stems each spring that are covered with hundreds of electric orange flowers. They are best known as Bonfire, the original variety from the Australian breeder Tesseler. Improved later varieties are Sparkle and Encanto. They make a spectacular hanging basket and will bloom into early winter. Choose a spot with good air circulation. Enjoy all of the new varieties.
Growth Habits:
Habit is hanging with some upright tendencies. Like other tuberous begonias, these are dormant in the winter. They tend to be late starting to grow in spring. When they finally decide to emerge and put out new shoots resume watering and begin your new season feeding schedule. Very Important… as soon as any of your new growth shoots are about 4 inches long, pinch out the tips. This will give you the best compact good looking growth.
Shade/Sun:
All will take full sun along the coast and part sun inland.
Feeding and Watering:
Important,… Do not overwater. Most tuberous type begonias like to get a little dry between waterings, and this is especially true of the Boliviensis type. Feed regularly with Weidner's Good Stuff fertilizer, Fish emulsion or any of your favorite blends.
Flower/Foliage Color(s):
Orange, red, white, yellow, salmon.
Season(s) Carried at Weidners:
Spring/summer
Container or ground?
Basket or container
Particular Pests:
The links below are to the instructions we give out at the nursery. This page contains additional and expanded information.
pdf:
Begonia Sparkle, Bonfire, Encanto
Text:
Begonia Sparkle, Bonfire, Encanto