Are Begonias a Perennial Plant?

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The Botanical Truth About Begonias
3. Hardy Begonias: The Winter Exception
4. Understanding the Three Main Types
5. Growing Begonias by Hardiness Zone
6. How to Overwinter Tuberous Begonias
7. Keeping Wax and Rex Begonias as Houseplants
8. Simple Gardening Rules for Begonia Success
9. The Spring Transition: Bringing Them Back Outside
10. Why Some Begonias Don't Return
11. The Benefits of Perennial Begonias
12. Conclusion
13. FAQ

Introduction

There is a special kind of excitement that comes with seeing the first bright blossoms of a begonia tucked into a shady corner of the porch. These plants are beloved for their ability to bring saturated color and lush, waxy foliage to the parts of the yard where other flowers might struggle to grow. If you prefer a softer palette, browse our Pink & Purples shop-by-color collection. Because they look so beautiful and perform so reliably, it is only natural to want that same display to return the following year without having to start from scratch.

At Longfield Gardens, we know that understanding the lifecycle of your plants is the first step toward a successful and rewarding growing experience. While many gardeners treat these begonias as a one-season wonder, the answer to whether they are perennials is a bit more interesting than a simple yes or no. This guide is designed for home gardeners who want to know if their plants will survive the winter and how to encourage them to return for many seasons to come.

We will explore the different types of begonias, their specific temperature needs, and the simple steps you can take to keep them healthy year after year. Most begonias are actually perennials, but because they are native to tropical climates, their survival depends entirely on how you manage the change of seasons.

The Botanical Truth About Begonias

When you walk through a garden center, you will often see begonias labeled as annuals. In the world of gardening, an "annual" is a plant that completes its entire life from seed to flower to seed in a single growing season and then dies. A "perennial" is a plant that lives for several years, often going dormant in the winter and regrowing in the spring.

Botanically speaking, almost all begonias are perennials. In their native habitats in Central and South America, Asia, and Africa, they grow continuously or go through a natural dormancy period before sprouting again. They do not naturally die after one year. However, because they are tropical plants, they have no built-in defense against freezing temperatures.

For most of the United States, we categorize begonias as "tender perennials." This means that while the plant has the biological ability to live for many years, it will only do so if it is protected from the cold. If you leave a standard begonia in the ground during a northern winter, the water inside its stems will freeze, the cells will rupture, and the plant will perish. If you live in a frost-free climate, or if you bring your plants indoors, they will continue to thrive as the perennials they truly are.

Hardy Begonias: The Winter Exception

While most of these plants are tender, there is one notable exception that many gardeners find to be a delightful surprise. Begonia grandis, commonly known as the hardy begonia, is a true perennial for much of the United States. Unlike its tropical cousins, this species can survive outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 6 through 9, and some gardeners have success even in zone 5 with extra protection.

The hardy begonia features beautiful, heart-shaped leaves that often have a striking red tint on the underside. In mid-to-late summer, it produces airy clusters of delicate pink or white flowers. This plant is a fantastic choice for woodland gardens or shaded borders where you want a reliable return every spring.

If you are growing hardy begonias, it is important to remember that they are late to emerge in the spring. You might not see new growth until late May or even June, so we recommend marking the spot where they are planted. This prevents you from accidentally digging them up while you are doing your early spring weeding and planting. Once they appear, they grow quickly and provide a lovely transition from the early blooms of spring to the lushness of late summer.

Key Takeaway: If you want a begonia that stays in the ground all year in cooler climates, look specifically for Begonia grandis. It is the only widely available variety that handles freezing soil.

Understanding the Three Main Types

To decide how to care for your plants, you first need to identify which type you have. We generally group the most common garden varieties into three categories based on their root systems and growth habits.

Tuberous Begonias

These varieties grow from a thickened, potato-like underground stem called a tuber. They are famous for having the largest and most spectacular flowers, often resembling roses or camellias. Tuberous begonias, such as the Picotee or Double varieties, are favorites for window boxes and hanging baskets. Because they store energy in a tuber, they are the easiest type to save over the winter.

Fibrous-Rooted (Wax) Begonias

Wax begonias are the "workhorses" of the shade garden. They have small, succulent leaves that are either green or bronze and produce a constant supply of small red, pink, or white flowers. These have a traditional root system of thin, thread-like fibers. They are very common as bedding plants and are usually treated as annuals, though they can be kept alive indoors. For a broader overview of the family, see All About Begonias.

Rhizomatous and Rex Begonias

These are primarily grown for their incredible foliage. Rex begonias feature swirls of silver, purple, pink, and green on their leaves. They grow from a rhizome, which is a thick stem that grows horizontally along the soil surface. While they do bloom, the flowers are secondary to the leaves. These are most often grown as houseplants but can spend the summer outdoors in a shaded, protected spot. If you want a trailing look for planters, browse our Hanging Begonias.

Growing Begonias by Hardiness Zone

Your local climate is the biggest factor in determining if you can treat your begonias as perennials in the landscape. The USDA Hardiness Zone Map divides North America into regions based on their average minimum winter temperature.

• Zones 10 and 11: In these tropical and sub-tropical regions, most begonias can stay in the ground year-round. They will grow as evergreen perennials, though they may appreciate a bit of a rest or a light pruning during the shortest days of the year.
• Zone 9: Gardeners in this zone can often keep begonias outdoors, but a sudden frost can be a risk. Using a layer of mulch or a light frost blanket during cold snaps can help them survive.
• Zones 2 through 8: In these areas, the ground freezes deep enough to kill tropical roots. To keep your begonias for next year, you must either lift the tubers for storage or bring the entire plant inside before the first frost.

How to Overwinter Tuberous Begonias

If you have fallen in love with a specific tuberous variety, you don't have to buy new ones every year. Saving them is a simple process that allows the plant to get larger and produce even more flowers each subsequent season. Browse our Non Stop Begonias if you want a vigorous option to save from year to year.

Timing the Harvest

Wait until the first light frost kills the foliage, or until the leaves start to yellow naturally in the fall. This tells the plant to send all its energy down into the tuber. If a frost is coming, you can cut the stems back to about two inches above the soil line.

Lifting and Cleaning

Gently lift the tubers out of the soil with a garden fork or trowel. Be careful not to nick or bruise the tuber, as this can lead to rot during storage. Shake off the excess soil and remove any remaining bits of stem. At this stage, do not wash them with water; it is better to let them dry with a little soil on them than to introduce excess moisture.

The Curing Process

Place the tubers in a warm, dry, and shaded area for about a week. This "curing" period allows the outer skin to toughen up. A porch or a garage that stays above freezing is a perfect spot. Once the remaining stem stubs are dry and brittle, they should pop off easily with a gentle tug.

Winter Storage

Store the tubers in a breathable container. We suggest using a cardboard box or a paper bag filled with slightly damp peat moss, vermiculite, or sawdust. This keeps them from drying out completely without making them wet enough to mold. Keep the box in a cool, dark place that stays between 40°F and 50°F. A basement or a cool closet usually works well.

What to do next:

• Check your stored tubers once a month during the winter.
• If they look shriveled, mist the packing material slightly with water.
• If you see any soft spots or mold, remove the affected tuber immediately to protect the others.
• Wait until 8–10 weeks before the last frost to start "waking them up" indoors.

Keeping Wax and Rex Begonias as Houseplants

Since wax and Rex begonias do not have a large tuber to store, the best way to treat them as perennials is to transition them into houseplants for the winter. For step-by-step help, see How to Overwinter Begonia Plants. This is a great way to keep your favorite colors and textures around all year long.

The transition should happen before the outdoor temperatures drop below 50°F. Tropical plants can go into shock if they are moved from a warm garden directly into a heated, dry house. To make it easier on the plant, bring it inside for the night and move it back outside during the day for a week or so.

Once they are permanently indoors, place them in a spot with bright, indirect light. A north- or east-facing window is usually ideal. Because indoor air is much drier than outdoor air, begonias may lose a few leaves as they adjust. This is normal. Resist the urge to overwater during this time; wait until the top inch of soil feels dry before adding more water.

Simple Gardening Rules for Begonia Success

Whether you are growing them for one season or ten, begonias thrive when you get the basics right. They are not demanding plants, but they do have specific preferences that make a big difference in how many flowers they produce.

Right Plant, Right Place

Most begonias are famous shade-lovers, but "shade" can mean many things. Most varieties prefer "dappled" light—the kind of light that filters through the leaves of a tall tree. If they are in total, dark shade, they will grow long, leggy stems and fewer flowers. For more light guidance, see Are Begonias Shade Plants?

In recent years, newer varieties like the Surefire series have been bred to handle more sun. If you have a spot that gets several hours of direct afternoon sun, look for these sun-tolerant types. For the classic varieties, morning sun and afternoon shade are the perfect combination.

Soil and Drainage

If there is one thing that begonias dislike, it is "wet feet." Drainage is simply how fast water leaves the soil. If the soil stays soggy, the stems and roots will rot very quickly. If you're shopping for container-friendly options, see our Summer Blooming Bulbs for Containers.

When planting in the ground, we recommend adding some compost or organic matter to help loosen the soil. For containers, always use a high-quality potting mix and ensure the pot has plenty of drainage holes. A heavy, clay-based soil will trap water around the roots and lead to problems.

Water Correctly, Not Constantly

It is better to water deeply and then let the soil dry out slightly than to give the plant a little bit of water every day. This encourages the roots to grow deeper. A good rule of thumb is to stick your finger into the soil; if it feels dry up to your first knuckle, it is time to water. For more care details, see Tips for Growing Tuberous Begonias.

Try to water at the base of the plant rather than over the leaves. Begonias can be prone to powdery mildew, a fungus that looks like white dust on the leaves, if the foliage stays wet for too long, especially in humid weather.

Feeding Your Begonias

Because begonias are such prolific bloomers, they appreciate a little extra nutrition. We suggest using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer about once a month during the growing season. This provides the energy they need to keep producing those bright blossoms from late spring all the way until the first frost.

The Spring Transition: Bringing Them Back Outside

If you have successfully overwintered your tubers or kept your plants as houseplants, the most exciting part of the process is moving them back into the garden. However, timing is everything. Begonias are very sensitive to cold soil and chilly nights. For shipping timing by zone, see our Shipping Information.

Wait until the danger of frost has completely passed and the nighttime temperatures are consistently above 50°F. If you put them out too early, the cold soil can stun the plants, and they may take weeks to recover.

For stored tubers, you can get a head start by planting them in pots indoors about two months before the last frost date. Place the tuber with the hollow or indented side facing up. Cover it with only about an inch of soil. Keep the pots in a warm, bright spot and water sparingly until you see green shoots appearing. By the time the weather is warm enough to move them outside, you will already have established plants ready to bloom.

Why Some Begonias Don't Return

If you have tried to keep begonias as perennials and they didn't come back, don't be discouraged. There are a few common reasons why this might happen, and they are usually easy to fix for the next season.

1. Late Frost: Even if you live in a warmer zone, an unexpected late spring frost can kill the tender new growth.
2. Winter Rot: If tubers are stored in a place that is too damp or if the garden soil doesn't drain well in the winter, the roots can rot.
3. The Wrong Type: You may have planted a tender variety and expected it to behave like a hardy one. Double-check the variety name when you buy.
4. Hungry Critters: Occasionally, rodents might find stored tubers in a garage or basement. Keeping them in a secure container can prevent this.

Gardening is a journey of observation and small adjustments. If one variety doesn't work for your specific microclimate, trying a different type or a different overwintering method often leads to success.

The Benefits of Perennial Begonias

While it is easy to buy fresh begonias every spring, there are several reasons why we love keeping them as perennials. First, tuberous begonias actually get larger and more impressive every year. A three-year-old tuber will produce a much more substantial plant than a brand-new one.

Second, it allows you to preserve specific colors or rare varieties that might not be available at the garden center every year. Finally, there is a deep sense of satisfaction in the rhythm of the seasons—the act of putting the plants to bed for the winter and welcoming them back in the spring creates a wonderful connection to the garden's natural cycle.

At Longfield Gardens, our goal is to help you find joy in every part of the growing process. Whether you choose to treat your begonias as a beautiful summer highlight or a long-term investment, they are sure to bring color and charm to your home.

Conclusion

Begonias are versatile, resilient, and stunningly beautiful plants. While they are often sold as annuals, remembering that they are actually tender perennials opens up a world of possibilities for your garden. By identifying the type of begonia you have and providing the right winter care—whether that is lifting tubers, bringing pots inside, or planting hardy varieties—you can enjoy these wonderful flowers for many years.

• Hardy begonias (Begonia grandis) are the best choice for year-round outdoor growth in zones 6-9.
• Tuberous begonias are easy to save by lifting and storing the tubers in a cool, dry place.
• Wax and Rex begonias can spend the winter indoors as beautiful houseplants.
• Successful growth always comes back to the basics: good drainage, filtered light, and protection from the cold.

Your garden is a living space that grows with you. Taking a few simple steps to protect your begonias this winter is a rewarding way to ensure a vibrant and colorful start to your next gardening season.

FAQ

Can I leave my wax begonias in the ground if I mulch them heavily?

In most parts of the US, a heavy layer of mulch is not enough to protect wax begonias from freezing. If your ground freezes, the roots will likely die. This method only works in zones 9 and warmer, where the ground stays above 45°F to 50°F.

Do I need to prune my begonias before I bring them inside for the winter?

It is often helpful to give them a light trim. This makes the plant more manageable indoors and removes any leggy growth. However, do not cut them back to the soil unless you are storing tuberous varieties for dormancy. For houseplants, just a light "haircut" is sufficient.

How can I tell the difference between a tuberous and a wax begonia?

Look at the base of the plant and the leaves. Tuberous begonias usually have larger, pointier leaves and very large, complex flowers. If you dig down an inch into the soil, you will feel a hard, potato-like lump. Wax begonias have rounder, smaller, waxy leaves and smaller, simpler flowers with thin, fibrous roots.

Why did my stored begonia tubers get soft and mushy over the winter?

Mushy tubers are usually a sign of rot caused by too much moisture or a lack of airflow. This can happen if the tubers weren't dried properly before storage or if the packing material was too wet. Next time, ensure they cure for a full week in a dry area before putting them away.