Begonia grandis subsp. evansiana ‘Alba’ (Hardy Begonia)

Begonia grandis subsp. evansiana var. alba (Hardy Begonia) is a tuberous perennial boasting long-lasting sprays of dainty white flowers, 1 in. across (2-3 cm), from midsummer to early fall. Borne on branching red stems, they rise atop the foliage clump of large, obliquely ovate, olive-green leaves, adorned with reddish undersides. Slow-sprouting, this shade-loving perennial forms a bushy mound that mixes well with hostas and ferns in the shade garden. A desirable begonia variety helping to brighten dark corners.

• Winner of the Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
• Grows up to 18-24 in. tall (45-60 cm) and 12-18 in. across (30-45 cm). Self-propagates by small bulblets which form in the leaf axils and drop to the ground.
• Prefers partial shade to full shade and organically rich, moist, and well-drained soils. Will not tolerate waterlogging. Mulch to protect roots.
• Propagate by seed, stem tip, or leaf cuttings
• Deadhead flowers to encourage new blooms
• Watch for caterpillars, mealybugs, tarsonemid mites, thrips, vine weevil, aphids, and powder mildew.
• Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses.
• Begonia grandis is native to Southern China and Japan.