Doublet begonia, also known as begonia semperflorens or evergreen begonia, is a popular indoor plant that It has been grown for its beauty and ease of maintenance. With glossy leaves and colorful flowers that appear all year round, this flowering plant makes an attractive addition to any home or office.
In addition to its beauty, the doublet begonia is known to be an easy-to-grow plant, which makes it ideal for those who don’t have much gardening experience. With proper care, including strong but indirect light, regular watering, and a comfortable temperature, this vegetable can thrive and produce flowers year-round. However, as with any plant, it is important to be aware of the pests and diseases that can affect it and to take measures to prevent and treat them in time. To help you know and grow this magnificent begonia, we will explain in this article what exactly is it and what care does it need.
Contents
What is the doublet begonia?
The doublet begonia, scientifically known as Begonia × semperflorens-cultorum, is a hybrid begonia commonly known as begonia semperflorens or continuous blooming begonia. As already mentioned, it is a popular houseplant due to its ease of cultivation and its ability to produce flowers throughout the year. The leaves of this begonia are usually green and shiny, and the flowers can be white, red, pink or pale pink.
It is an artificial hybrid which comes from the crossing of different species of begonias. It is not known for certain when and where this hybrid begonia was born. However, it is believed to have originated somewhere in Europe or America in the 20th century. The doublet begonia has been grown commercially for its ability to produce flowers year-round and its ease of cultivation. It is therefore not surprising that it is a popular vegetable for interior decoration and for the production of potted plants. Over the years, the ever-flowering begonia has been cultivated and bred by gardeners and horticulturists.
Usually artificial hybrids such as begonia semperflorens are created with the aim of combining the desirable characteristics of different species to produce a new plant with better ornamental or cultural characteristics. Therefore, they are artificially “enhanced” or “perfected” vegetables by man. They are generally more resistant and durable plants.
Description
We already know a little more about the doublet begonia, but what does it look like? Also, it is a small to medium sized plant with varying shapes, depending on the variety. In general, the leaves are oval or rounded, with serrated or smooth edges and a shiny, velvety texture. These can be light to dark green in color, and some varieties have leaves with a spotting pattern or a red border.
The flowers of Begonia × semperflorens-cultorum are small and solitary, and they can be white, red, pink or pale pink. The flowering of this plant is continuous, with flowers appearing throughout the year (hence its name continuous-flowering begonia).
In summary we can say that the begonia semperflorens It is a plant with a showy and attractive aspect, with glossy leaves and colorful flowers that make it ideal for home decor. Of course, it is a vegetable that is obvious and which, well cared for, will beautify our environment.
How to care for the doublet begonia?
Are you considering buying a doublet begonia? I wouldn’t be surprised, because it is extremely pretty. In addition, it is very easy to grow. Even so, we must provide basic care so that it looks healthy and thrives as it should. Let’s see what they are:
- Light: This begonia prefers bright but indirect light. It is advisable to avoid direct exposure to the sun, as it can damage its leaves and flowers.
- Irrigation: It’s best to keep the soil moist, but not soggy. The soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings.
- Temperature: The begonia semperflorens prefers warm and comfortable temperatures, between 15 and 24 degrees Celsius.
- Humidity: The preferred environment of this beautiful plant is rather humid, but it is not necessary to sprinkle it with water.
- Pass: It is best to fertilize your doublet begonia every four to six weeks during the active growing season with a liquid houseplant fertilizer.
- Size: This vegetable does not need to be pruned per se, but it is highly recommended to remove dry and diseased leaves and stems to maintain a healthy and attractive appearance.
By following these care tips, Begonia × semperflorens-cultorum should thrive and produce flowers all year round.
Plagues and diseases
Although it is quite a hardy hybrid compared to other begonias, The doublet begonia can be affected by certain pests and diseases. The most common are:
- Mites: These tiny arachnids can cause brown leaf spots and a wrinkled texture. See file.
- Whitefly: These insects can damage the leaves and reduce the flowering of the begonia. See file.
- Mushroom : Continuous blooming begonia can be susceptible to fungal diseases. Some examples would be crown rot and root rot, if the soil is too wet. See file.
- Leaf spots: Leaf spots may appear on begonia leaves as a result of prolonged exposure to direct sunlight or excessive water in the soil.
To prevent these pests and diseases, it is important to maintain good plant hygiene and provide an environment conducive to cultivation, including bright but indirect light, regular but not excessive watering and a comfortable temperature. If problems arise, it may be necessary to treat with specific insecticides or fungicides to resolve the situation.
Did you like the doublet begonia? Undoubtedly, this hybrid is a great option for decorating our home.