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Begonia

Begonia is a large genus of flowering plants in the family Begoniaceae, with more than 2,000 species.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Begonia is a large genus of flowering plants in the family Begoniaceae, with more than 2,000 species. Native mainly to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and the Americas, begonias are widely grown as ornamental houseplants and garden plants.

Description

Begonias are perennial flowering plants, often with succulent stems and asymmetrical leaves. Many species are cultivated for their flowers, while others are valued for decorative foliage.

Distribution and habitat

The genus is concentrated in tropical and subtropical regions, especially in Africa, Asia, and Central and South America. Many species grow in moist forest understories or other humid habitats.

Cultivation

Begonias are widely used as ornamental plants in homes, containers, shaded gardens, and seasonal bedding displays. Many species prefer protection from strong sun and dry conditions.

Taxonomy

Begonia is the largest genus in the family Begoniaceae. Modern sources place the family in the order Cucurbitales.

Key facts

  • Begonia is one of the largest genera of flowering plants.
  • Most species are native to moist tropical and subtropical habitats.
  • The genus includes plants grown for colourful flowers and ornamental foliage.
  • Begonias are commonly cultivated indoors in cooler climates and outdoors in warm regions.
  • The genus was named for Michel Bégon, a patron of botany.
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Canadian context

Begonias are widely grown in Canada as indoor houseplants and as seasonal outdoor ornamentals during warmer months.

Frequently asked questions

What is a begonia?
A begonia is a flowering plant in the genus Begonia, part of the family Begoniaceae, known for ornamental flowers and foliage.
How many begonia species are there?
There are more than 2,000 described species, making Begonia one of the largest genera of flowering plants.
Where do begonias grow naturally?
They grow mainly in tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and the Americas, often in humid forest habitats.
Are begonias houseplants?
Yes. Many begonias are grown indoors as houseplants, especially in cooler climates.
Why are begonias popular in gardens?
They are popular for their colourful flowers and, in some types, attractive leaves.
Who was Begonia named after?
The genus was named after Michel Bégon, a French patron of botany and colonial administrator.

References

  1. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/plant/begonia
    Supports: Genus description, species diversity, tropical/subtropical origin, naming after Michel Bégon, ornamental use
  2. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Begonia
    Supports: General taxonomy, species count, distribution, ornamental cultivation
  3. Plants of the World Online, Royal Botanic Gardens Kew — https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:327437-2
    Supports: Accepted genus status and native range
  4. Encyclopedia.com — https://www.encyclopedia.com/plants-and-animals/plants/plants/begonia
    Supports: Habit, distribution, and general description
  5. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Begoniaceae
    Supports: Family placement and composition