Can Begonias Grow in Full Sun? What You Need to Know
Begonias are stunning plants celebrated for their colorful, plentiful blooms and attractive foliage. While they have a reputation as shade-lovers, modern begonia breeding has generated several varieties that not only tolerate full sun but flourish in it.
I examined multiple sources to provide a comprehensive look at growing begonias in full sun. In this article, I will share key information on begonia sun requirements, the best sun-loving varieties, and tips for success.
Begonia Sun Tolerance Varies by Type
With over 1,000 different begonia species, light needs differ widely. Traditional wax begonias, rhizomatous begonias, and tuberous begonias generally require shade to part shade. However, certain types like dragon wing begonias, Bonfire begonias, Big begonias, and nonstop begonias can thrive in full sunlight.
Some key factors determining a begonia’s sun tolerance
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Foliage Color – Dark leaf varieties withstand more light than green types. The pigment protects cells.
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Bloom Size – Larger-flowered begonias need more shade while small-flowered ones can grow in full sun.
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Genetics – Through breeding, some hybrids inherit sun-loving genes.
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Climate – Begonias tolerate more sun in cool climates. Afternoon shade is vital in hot areas.
So some begonias can grow in full sun, but only specific varieties have that capacity. Verify a variety is labeled “sun-tolerant” before planting in unshaded areas.
Best Begonias for Full Sun Exposure
Some top sun-loving begonia varieties include:
Dragon Wing Begonias
With glossy, colorful leaves and dangling blooms, Dragon Wings flourish in full sun with afternoon shade when hot. They reach 18-24 inches tall/wide, excelling in landscapes and large containers.
Big Begonias
Growing up to 2 feet tall, Big series begonias like Big Red take full sun while producing enormous blossoms. Big begonias bloom continuously without deadheading, also working well in partial shade.
Bonfire Begonias
Bonfire begonias withstand full sun with lush, deeply lobed foliage in olive, bronze, or burgundy tones. Prolific orange, red, yellow, or pink flowers bloom heavily in summer and fall. Ideal for containers at 12-18 inches tall/wide.
Nonstop Begonias
Nonstop tuberous begonias will flower abundantly all summer in sun or light shade. Rose-like double blooms come in yellow, orange, pink, red, white, and more. Excellent in hanging baskets, pots, and garden beds at 10-12 inches tall.
Rex Begonias
While Rex begonias need garden shade, their bold ornamental leaves make them fantastic houseplants for bright indoor areas and full sun exposure. Vivid foliage patterns/textures add interest without relying on flowers.
Growing Begonias Successfully in Full Sun
When cultivating sun-loving begonias, provide these optimal conditions:
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Rich, Fertile Soil – Improve drainage in heavy soils by incorporating compost or peat moss. Begonias thrive in loamy, organically-enriched earth.
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Afternoon Shade – In hot climates, supply shade during the most intense sunlight to prevent leaf scorch. Dappled shade under taller plants works well.
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Consistent Watering – Allow soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering.
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Wind Protection – Shield begonias from hot, drying winds that can desiccate leaves.
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Air Circulation – Permit air movement to deter disease, but don’t situate begonias in very exposed areas.
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Quality Containers – Use pots with drainage holes. Avoid unglazed clay pots that dry rapidly.
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Fertilizer – Apply balanced fertilizer monthly. Potted begonias benefit from slow-release granular formulas.
Signs of Excessive Sunlight on Begonias
Begonias getting too much light demonstrate symptoms like:
- Wilting or drooping leaves
- Scorched or brown leaf edges
- Bleached foliage color
- Sparse blooming
- Stunted growth
If your begonias exhibit these, try filtered shade, nearby plant shade, or afternoon shade as a remedy.
To help sun-stressed begonias recover and continue thriving, also:
- Move plants to a site with afternoon shade
- Apply mulch to cool soil and roots
- Water more frequently
- Mist-spray plants on hot afternoons
- Add shade cloth over plants
Key Takeaways on Full Sun Begonias
While many begonias require shade, certain varieties can excel in full sun. Seek out sun-loving types.
Allow begonias soil to become slightly dry between waterings. Don’t overwater.
In hot climates, supply midday shade for begonias in full sun.
Check for foliage/flower burn and wilting to gauge if begonias are getting excessive light.
Better hot conditions by adding shade, more water, and reducing wind exposure.
With the right variety, site factors, and care, begonias can prosper in full sunlight for vivid seasonal flowers and foliage. Identify sun-tolerant types and adjust growing conditions as needed.
By choosing appropriate varieties and meeting their needs, begonias can thrive in full sunlight. Focus on heat/sun-tolerant hybrids, provide adequate water and wind protection, and watch for signs of light stress. With a few adjustments, you can succeed in growing begonias in sunny spots for stellar floral displays.
How often do I need to water and fertilize my begonias?
Begonias like to get mostly dry between waterings. They will perform at their best with monthly fertilizing or an application of a slow release fertilizer at planting time.
Why are my Impatiens wilting and not perking up after I water?
There could be several reasons Impatiens may do this. First is that they are incredibly sensitive to cold and if they are planted too early temperatures in the thirties will damage or kill Impatiens. The second reason water would not perk up wilting Impatiens is overwatering or poorly drained soil.
Do begonias like sun or shade?
FAQ
What happens when begonias get too much sun?
Often this is the key to success. Exposure to excessive sunlight results in burned foliage and flowers.
Which begonias tolerate full sun?
Many begonias will do just fine in full sun. The bedding plant fibrous begonias, Dragon Wing Begonias and Bonfire Begonias handle full sun best.
Can begonias take hot afternoon sun?
Begonia light requirements can vary, from full sun to shade. Provide shelter from hot afternoon sun. Follow these steps and space plants 6 to 18 inches apart, depending on the variety. Loosen soil in the planting area.
Can begonias take a lot of sunshine?
Some begonias like lots of sun – some tolerate very little. Some grow into rounded mounds of foliage and flowers, and some have more arching, trailing habits. Choosing the right begonia for your project can mean the difference between success and disappointment as the season progresses.
Do begonias need full sun?
Begonias are stunning plants known for their colorful, abundant blooms and attractive foliage. While they have a reputation as shade-lovers, modern begonia breeding has produced quite a few varieties that not only tolerate full sun but thrive in it. There are over 1,000 different species of begonia, and their light requirements can vary greatly.
Can begonias grow in shade?
Lots of newer begonias grow in sun or shade, but here are the best begonias for full sun. Can you only grow begonias in shade, or do begonias like sun too? Thanks to lots of breeding work in recent years, this fascinating and extremely diverse group of plants is no longer limited to growing in shady, protected locations.
Are wax begonias sun tolerant?
Wax begonias are compact, busy plants that reliably flower throughout the entire summer. Several of the begonia varieties with wing-shaped leaves are also very sun-tolerant. “Dragon Wing Red” begonia ( Begonia “Bepared”) grows best in full sun to part shade, and prefers some afternoon shade in warm climates.
How do you know if a begonia is sun tolerant?
However, even sun-tolerant begonias should be monitored to ensure they are not subject to excessive light that can damage the plant. On each type, the color intensity of the flowers and leaves is a good indicator of whether the light conditions are appropriate.
Are begonias drought tolerant?
Some begonias are more drought-tolerant than others, and some are more heat-tolerant. In general though, begonias that are in full sun are more likely to suffer from heat stress rather than drought. When begonias are exposed to too much heat, they can start to wilt, their leaves can become discolored, and they can stop flowering.
Which begonia is best suited for full sun?
The type of begonia that is best suited for full sun is the Dragon Wing type or the Boliviensis types such as Santa Cruz or Unstoppable Upright Fire. These begonias are hybridized to tolerate more direct sunlight than other begonias. Dragon Wing begonias have large, bright green leaves that are oval-shaped with a pointed tip.