Compared to other popular herbaceous ornamental plants, begonias are often perceived as easily propagated plants due to their ability to be regrown from leaf, stem, rhizome, or tuber cuttings as well as grow from seed (Figure 1). Begonia species and varieties are known for their imperfect, monoecious flowers (Figure 2 and 3). Having both male and female flowers on the same plant but not on the same flower allows the breeder to perform self-fertilization and cross-fertilization with ease.
This EDIS publication is written for Florida nursery operators, landscape professionals, or individuals interested in propagating their own begonias. This guide will go into detail on how to multiply begonias via pollination/fertilization. If you would like to learn more about vegetative propagation of begonias, go to A Beginner’s Guide to Begonias: Vegetative Propagation. There are two methodologies for pollinating and fertilizing your own begonias: the flower removal model and the brush method. For more information on begonias in Florida, check out A Beginner’s Guide to Begonias: Classification and Diversity.
Begonias are popular ornamental plants known for their colorful and abundant flowers While begonias can be propagated through cuttings, seeds are another great way to produce new begonia plants But what exactly do begonia seeds look like?
In this complete visual guide, we will uncover the intricate details of begonia seed identification. With over 1,800 unique begonia species, there is some natural variation in seed characteristics. However, most share some common physical traits that can help you decipher what you’re looking at under the microscope.
Let’s start by going over the typical qualities of begonia seeds:
Common Physical Characteristics
Size
- Begonia seeds are quite small, often measuring between 0.1 – 2 mm in length. That’s just a tiny fraction of an inch!
Shape
- The shape can vary but common forms are oval, elliptical, or irregularly round. Some species have a slightly curved or hooked tip on one end.
Color
- Mature begonia seeds range from white to brown in color, with shades of cream, yellow, orange and red possible as well. Darker seeds tend to indicate maturity.
Texture
- Most have a smooth, glossy surface. However, some may have tiny ridges or bumps. A few species have fine hairs or hooks on the seed coat.
Notable Features
- Some seeds have a small wing-like structure to aid wind dispersal.
- The seed capsule or pod can also be distinctive on certain species.
Now let’s go through a 3-step process to identify begonia seeds:
Step 1: Examine the Shape and Size
- First, assess the overall form and dimensions of the seed using a magnifying glass or macro lens.
- Compare the shape and proportions to reference photos of different begonia seeds.
- The size can offer hints too. For example, large seeds over 2 mm likely come from bigger-flowered species.
Step 2: Inspect the Color and Texture
- Next, examine the seed color and surface texture. This can vary greatly among begonia species.
- Texture-wise, determine if the seed coat is smooth or irregular.
- Try to match the color/texture combo to a known species.
Step 3: Identify Any Special Features
- Finally, look closely for any distinguishing characteristics like wings, hooks, hairs or unique pods.
- Make note of any stripes, dots, or variegation too.
- These special traits can help pinpoint the exact species.
With practice, you’ll quickly be able to identify most begonia seeds following those three simple steps.
However there are a few potential challenges with begonia seeds to be aware of
- They’re extremely small, which makes examination difficult.
- Many species have similar nondescript seeds.
- Variety can occur within the same species.
- Immature seeds may lack definitive traits.
But don’t let those obstacles stop you! Here are some tips to overcome the challenges
- Use a quality magnifying glass and good lighting.
- Compare to multiple reference photos to spot minute differences.
- Focus on mature, dark-colored seeds when available.
- Identify seeds from parent plants whenever possible.
- Pay attention to subtle characteristics like shape and size.
With practice and patience, identifying begonia seeds gets much easier. Starting with common species helps build confidence too.
Let’s go through some of the most popular begonia species and their distinctive seeds:
Rex Begonia
- Oval, plump shape
- White to brown color
- Smooth surface
- 0.5-1 mm long
Wax Begonia
- Tiny, oblong shape
- White color
- Some have fine hairs
- Under 0.5 mm long
Tuberous Begonia
- Oval or irregularly shaped
- Reddish-brown color
- Ridged or wrinkled texture
- 0.5-1.5 mm long
Dragon Wing Begonia
- Kidney-shaped
- Yellow-brown color
- Winged capsule
- 1-2 mm long
Rhizomatous Begonia
- Elliptical shape
- Cream to brown shades
- Smooth or lightly ridged
- 1-1.5 mm long
With that quick visual guide imprinted, identifying common begonia seeds becomes much more intuitive.
Once you’ve harvested ripe begonia seeds, proper storage is crucial for maintaining viability:
- Allow seeds to fully mature and dry on the plant first.
- Use breathable containers like paper or mesh. Avoid plastic.
- Store in cool, dark places. Refrigeration extends viability.
- Add silica packs to absorb moisture for long-term storage.
- Avoid freezing, high humidity and frequent temperature changes.
Follow those tips, and your begonia seeds will stay viable for years to come!
Now that you’re a pro at begonia seed identification and storage, here are some exciting ways to use your bounty:
- Start new begonia plants – grow an endless supply from seeds!
- Trade seeds with fellow begonia enthusiasts.
- Create unique hybrids and cultivars.
- Participate in begonia societies and competitions.
- Preserve rare, heirloom varieties by propagating them.
- Sell or give away extra seeds.
The possibilities are endless when you harness the power within those tiny begonia seeds!
So grab your magnifying glass, tap into your curiosity, and join me in uncovering the intricate details and wonders of begonia seeds. With knowledge and practice, you’ll be deciphering those minute specimens like a pro in no time!
Seed Production via Hand Pollination
Begoniascan be propagated through seeds. Hundreds of seeds can be produced from a single pod, making it easy to produce sufficient seed materials for propagation. Seed production requires self-pollination; most begonias are self-compatible, which means pollen from male flowers on one plant can successfully pollinateand fertilize female flowerson the same plant. In order to ensure self-pollination occurs, manual crossings are generally required for pollination.
Pollination can be defined as the transfer of pollen from the male organs (anthers) to the female organs (stigma) on the same or different flowers. This is the part of the reproductive process that requires human intervention to yield specific traits that are desired. In the case of Begonia, the male and female reproductive organs are on separate flowers, and thus the chances of self-pollination without human intervention are significantly reduced (Figure 2 and 3). Both male and female flowers can be found on the same plant, and it is possible for self-pollination to occur. Begonia species naturally try to avoid self-pollination through protandry—that is, the male flowers mature prior to the female flowers—or protogyny—the female flowers mature prior to the males. However, self-pollination is driven by pollinators when clonal plants are planted at different timing points to allow male flowers in one plant to bloom at the same time as the female flowers in another plant.
After female flowers are pollinated, fertilization occurs inside the ovary. Fertilization is defined as the union of the male gamete (sperm from pollen) and the female gamete (egg from ovule). Fertilization does not require human intervention because it occurs naturally in virtually every living organism on the planet. Pollination ends when the pollen grain lands on the stigma, and fertilization begins when the pollen tube forms to guide the sperm cell down the style to the ovary where the egg is. There are two methods to pollinate begonias, the flower removal method and the brush method. The following steps will detail how to successfully pollinate begonia flowers using both methods.
- Locate a mature male and female flower. When it comes to male flowers, ensure the tepals are opened wide and the anthers are golden yellow. Gently shake the flower to see if some pollen grains fall on the tepals (Figure 5). If so, the flower is mature. The same goes for female flowers: look for a flower with a three-winged ovary with its tepals fully open. Refer to Figures 2 and 3 to see the difference between male and female flowers.
- Use a pair of forceps to carefully remove the male flower from the plant. Be careful not to disturb the pollen (Figure 5).
3. Lightly brush the collection of anthers onto the stigmas of the female flower. Be careful not to brush too hard, because you may damage the female reproductive organs (Figure 6).
4. Label a tag with the male species, female species, and date of crossing to ensure proper records are kept. Fasten the tag around the female flower. Tepals of female flowers tend to break off from the plant once pollination and fertilization are complete, so be sure to attach the tag close to the female flower (see Figure 7).
5. Observe the flower every few days to see if pollination was successful. If successful, you will first notice the tepals of the female flower begin to wilt and detach from the receptacle. A browning of the peduncle follows as the plant cuts off nutrients from the flower (Figure 9). Once the peduncle browns, the flower can be mechanically removed or allowed to fully brown and detach by itself.
- First, locate a mature male and female flower.
- Use a soft-bristled brush to gently brush the anthers of the male flower until you notice golden pollen grains on the end of the bristles. It may be easier to use a dark-bristled brush so it is easier to observe the pollen grains.
- Move to the female flower and lightly brush the stigmas with the end brush (Figure 8). Be sure to clean the brush in 70% rubbing alcohol before attempting another cross to avoid unexpected cross-pollination.
4. If done properly, you will notice the pollen resting on the stigmas of the female flower. Label a tag with the male species, female species, and date of crossing to ensure proper records are kept. Fasten tag around the female flower.
5. Observe the female flower every few days to see if pollination was successful. If successful, you will first notice the tepals of the female flower will begin to wilt and detach from the receptacle. A browning of the peduncle follows as the plant cuts off nutrients from the flower (Figure 9). Once the peduncle browns, the flower can be mechanically removed or allowed to fully brown and detach by itself.
how to collect wax begonia seeds, what does a wax begonia seed pod look like
FAQ
Can you grow begonia from seeds?
Growing begonias from seed is the most cost-effective method, but does require more patience. It’s worth noting that begonia seed is extremely fine, so take care when opening the packet. Sow from mid-January to mid-March. Sow seeds on the surface of lightly firmed, moist seed compost in pots or trays.
Are begonia seeds tiny?
Remember that Begonia seeds are tiny so a light breeze, sneeze, or wheeze could send them flying all over the place. This is also why I go one container at a time.