Begonia Compacta

The Begonias in this 'Compacta' selection are small, round plants, with double flowers in various colours including red, yellow, orange, coral, pink, and cream depending on the plants. Very reliable, they flower for months, continuously, in the sun or partial shade and in all weather conditions. Place them in a large pot on the terrace or balcony, or in a small well-maintained bed.

The 'Compacta' Begonia belongs to the Begoniaceae family and is part of the tuberous hybrid begonias, whose parents are mainly from the Andean tropical forests. It is a cultivar with a compact bushy habit. It will reach a mature size of about 20-25cm (8-10in) in all directions. The flowers, with a minimum diameter of 5-6 cm (2in), are globular and composed of pleated petals resembling crepe paper, with variable colours depending on the plants. The flower's centre is occupied by a cluster of tightly packed small petals forming a flower bud that unfurls in a whirl, revealing yellow stamens at full bloom. After flowering, which lasts from June to October without interruption, the plant enters dormancy. Its foliage consists of glossy, alternate leaves with deeply cut edges, and dark green in colour. The leaf blades are always asymmetrical and fleshy in texture, while the petioles have stipules at their base. The stems of this begonia are thick, fleshy, and brittle. The tubers will be cultivated like those of Dahlias.

Begonias are unrivalled in bringing colour to terraces and balconies. They are also comfortable in well-maintained beds, alongside lighter flowers such as lobelias or forget-me-nots, whether grown in flower boxes or hanging baskets. This particularly floriferous and robust selection will be perfectly complemented by the small silver foliage of Dichondra 'Silver Falls' and the tiny blue flowers of lobelias, in large pots in the winter garden or conservatory. Finally, it is good to know that there are hardy begonias, such as Begonia grandis.