Introduction
Few flowers can match the sheer versatility and color of a begonia. Whether you are looking for vibrant blooms to spill out of a hanging basket or striking foliage to brighten a shady corner, begonias offer a stunning variety of shapes and textures. It is easy to see why so many gardeners fall in love with these plants during the summer months. At Longfield Gardens, we enjoy seeing how these plants transform gardens with their nonstop color from early summer right through the first frost.
As the season winds down, a common question arises: is a begonia a perennial plant? Gardeners often wonder if their favorite pots will return next spring or if they need to start fresh each year. Understanding the life cycle of these plants is the secret to enjoying them for many seasons to come. This guide is for anyone who wants to clear up the confusion and learn how to manage begonias in their own backyard.
In this article, we will explain the botanical nature of begonias and how they behave in different climates. We will also walk you through the simple steps to keep your begonias healthy, whether you treat them as annuals or take the extra step to save them for next year. While most begonias are technically perennials, the way you grow them depends entirely on your local weather and your gardening style.
The Short Answer: It Depends on Your Climate
The direct answer to whether a begonia is a perennial is yes, but with a significant catch. Botanically speaking, most begonias are tropical or subtropical perennials. This means that in their native habitats—places like Central and South America, Africa, and southern Asia—they live for many years. They grow, bloom, and rest in a continuous cycle without ever being stopped by freezing temperatures.
However, for most gardeners in the United States, begonias are treated as annuals. Because they are native to warm, frost-free regions, they cannot survive a typical winter in the majority of North American hardiness zones. If the ground freezes or the air temperature drops below 40°F for an extended period, the plant will likely perish. Therefore, unless you live in a very warm climate, you will either need to replant them every spring or bring them indoors to "overwinter" them.
The term often used for this is a tender perennial. This describes a plant that lives forever in the tropics but acts like an annual in colder regions. By understanding this distinction, you can decide whether you want to enjoy them for a single season or put in a little extra effort to keep them alive through the winter.
Key Takeaway: Begonias are naturally perennials, but they are "tender," meaning they will not survive freezing temperatures outdoors. In most of the U.S., they are grown as annuals unless protected from the cold.
Understanding the Different Types of Begonias
To understand how a begonia behaves as a perennial, you first need to know which type you are growing. Not all begonias are the same, and they have different ways of storing energy to survive. The four most common types you will find at a garden center or in our selection at Longfield Gardens are wax, tuberous, rex, and hardy begonias.
Wax Begonias (Fibrous Rooted)
Wax begonias are the classic bedding plants you often see in parks and around the edges of garden borders. They are named for their shiny, succulent-like leaves which look like they have been coated in wax. These plants have a fibrous root system, much like most common garden flowers.
In warm climates (USDA Zones 10 and 11), wax begonias can stay in the ground all year. In colder zones, they are almost always treated as annuals. While you can technically dig them up and bring them inside as houseplants, most people find it easier to simply plant new ones each spring because they grow so quickly from seeds or small nursery starts.
Tuberous Begonias
Tuberous begonias are the stars of the shade garden. They produce massive, rose-like blooms in shades of red, pink, white, yellow, and orange. These plants grow from a thick, potato-like structure called a tuber. This tuber is the plant's "storage locker" for energy.
Because they have tubers, these begonias are much easier to keep as perennials even if you live in a cold climate. When the weather turns cold, the plant goes dormant. You can dig up the tuber, store it in a cool, dry place for the winter, and replant it the following spring. This makes them a fantastic investment for gardeners who want the same beautiful flowers year after year. For more ideas, browse our Upright Double Begonias collection.
Rex and Cane Begonias
Rex begonias are grown primarily for their incredible foliage, which can feature swirls of silver, purple, pink, and green. Cane begonias, such as the famous "Angel Wing" varieties, have upright, woody stems and speckled leaves.
Both of these types are perennials that are frequently grown as year-round houseplants. If you move them outdoors for the summer, you must bring them back inside well before the first frost. They do not have a dormancy period like tuberous begonias, so they need to keep growing in a warm environment throughout the winter. Our begonia indoor or outdoor guide covers the differences in more detail.
The Hardy Begonia (Begonia grandis)
There is one notable exception to the "begonias hate cold" rule: the Hardy Begonia (Begonia grandis). This specific species is a true perennial that can survive outdoors in USDA Zones 6 through 9. It looks very similar to other begonias but has a unique ability to go dormant in the ground and sprout again when the soil warms up in late spring. If you live in a temperate region and want a begonia that truly comes back on its own, this is the variety to look for.
Where Begonias Live as Perennials
To figure out how your begonias will behave, you need to look at your USDA Hardiness Zone. These zones are based on the average minimum winter temperature in your area. You can find your zone by looking at a map or using an online tool with your zip code.
- Zones 10–11: In these tropical and subtropical regions (such as parts of Florida, Hawaii, and Southern California), almost all begonias are perennials. They can stay in the garden year-round.
- Zone 9: Many begonias will survive the winter here if they are planted in a protected spot or if the winter is particularly mild. A light frost might kill the leaves, but the roots or tubers often survive.
- Zones 3–8: In the vast majority of the country, begonias will not survive the winter outdoors. In these zones, you should treat them as annuals or plan to bring them inside before the first frost.
We time our shipping information at Longfield Gardens based on your specific hardiness zone. This ensures that your begonias arrive when the weather is just right for planting in your area. Since begonias are so sensitive to cold, it is always best to wait until the soil is warm and all danger of frost has passed before putting them in the ground.
How to Overwinter Tuberous Begonias
If you have fallen in love with your tuberous begonias and want to keep them as perennials, the process is quite simple. Since these plants naturally want to take a rest during the winter, you just need to provide them with a safe place to do so. Here is how to save your tubers for next year.
Step 1: Wait for the First Light Frost
You don't need to rush to dig up your begonias at the first sign of autumn. In fact, a very light frost that blackens the leaves can actually signal to the plant that it is time to go dormant. This helps the tuber pull the remaining nutrients from the stems into its "storage tank" for the winter.
Step 2: Dig and Clean
Carefully lift the tubers out of the soil using a garden trowel or fork. Be gentle, as you don't want to nick or bruise the tuber. Once they are out of the ground, shake off the excess soil. Use your fingers or a soft brush to remove as much dirt as possible. You can trim the stems back to about an inch above the tuber.
Step 3: The Curing Process
This is a step many people skip, but it is very important. "Curing" just means letting the tubers dry out. Place them in a warm, dry area (like a garage or a porch) out of direct sunlight for about a week. This allows the outer skin to toughen up, which prevents them from rotting or shriveling during storage.
Step 4: Storage
Once they are dry, place the tubers in a box or a paper bag. To keep them healthy, it helps to nestle them in a dry material like peat moss, perlite, or sawdust. This provides a little bit of insulation and prevents the tubers from touching each other, which stops the spread of any potential rot.
Store the box in a cool, dark, and dry place that stays between 40°F and 50°F. A basement or an unheated (but frost-free) closet is usually perfect. Check on them once or twice during the winter to make sure they aren't getting soft or overly shriveled.
What to do next:
- Check your local frost date so you know when to prepare for digging.
- Gather a few cardboard boxes and some peat moss for storage.
- Label your tubers by color or variety so you know what you're planting next spring.
- Mark your calendar for late winter to start waking them up indoors!
Keeping Begonias as Houseplants
If you are growing wax, rex, or cane begonias, you can't "store" them like a tuber. Instead, you keep them alive as perennials by moving them inside your home. This is a great way to enjoy their foliage during the dark winter months.
When you move a plant from the outdoors to the indoors, it will likely go through a bit of a "shock" period. The air inside a house is much drier and the light is much dimmer than it is outside. It is normal for a begonia to drop a few leaves as it adjusts to its new environment. Don't worry; with a little care, it will soon start producing new growth.
To keep your "indoor perennials" happy:
- Light: Place them in a bright window, preferably one that faces east or west. They need light to stay healthy, but too much direct afternoon sun through glass can scorch their leaves.
- Water: Be careful not to overwater. During the winter, plants grow more slowly and need less water than they do in the summer. Let the top inch of soil feel dry to the touch before you water again.
- Humidity: Begonias love humidity. Since indoor air is dry, you can place the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and a little water. As the water evaporates, it creates a humid microclimate around the leaves.
Planting for Success Next Spring
Whether you are starting with brand new tubers from us or replanting the ones you saved, the key to success is timing. Begonias are one of the last things you should put in the garden. They love warm soil and warm nights. If you plant them too early, the cold, damp soil can cause the tubers to rot before they even start growing.
A good rule of thumb is to wait until you are confident that the "nighttime" temperatures will stay consistently above 50°F. In many parts of the country, this isn't until late May or even early June. If you want a head start, you can plant your tubers in pots indoors about six weeks before the last frost. This gives them time to sprout so you have a well-established plant ready to go outside as soon as the weather breaks.
When planting, remember the "right plant, right place" rule. Most begonias thrive in partial to full shade. They are the perfect solution for those spots under trees or on North-facing porches where other flowers struggle to bloom. They also need soil that drains well. "Drainage" is just a fancy way of saying that water doesn't sit in puddles around the roots. If your soil is heavy clay, consider growing your begonias in containers or raised beds where you can control the soil mix.
Why Some Gardeners Choose the Annual Route
Even though begonias are perennials, many people choose to treat them as annuals and buy new ones every year. There is nothing wrong with this approach! In fact, there are several reasons why this might be the right choice for you.
First, it is much less work. Not everyone has the time or the storage space to dig up and store tubers or keep multiple pots of begonias inside all winter. If you have a busy schedule, buying fresh plants in the spring allows you to enjoy the garden without the chore of overwintering.
Second, it allows for variety. One year you might want a garden full of fiery red begonias, and the next you might decide to go with soft pinks and whites. Treating them as annuals gives you the freedom to redesign your garden every single year.
Finally, young plants often have more "vigor." While a tuber can live for many years, sometimes a fresh plant from a grower will bloom more profusely in its first season than an older tuber that hasn't been stored perfectly. At Longfield Gardens, we ensure that every tuber we ship is of the highest quality and true to its variety, so you get the best possible results whether it's your first time planting or your tenth. For current selections, visit Begonia Non Stop Mix.
Simple Care for Ongoing Beauty
Regardless of whether you keep your begonias for one year or ten, the care they need during the summer is the same. They are relatively low-maintenance plants, but a few simple habits will keep them looking their best.
- Watering: Begonias like to stay moist, but never soggy. Think of it like a wrung-out sponge. If you are growing them in pots, they will dry out much faster than if they are in the ground. During the heat of summer, you may need to water your containers every day.
- Feeding: Because begonias bloom so much, they are "heavy feeders." This means they use up the nutrients in the soil quickly. Using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month during the growing season will help them produce more flowers.
- Deadheading: This is the practice of removing faded flowers. Most modern begonias are "self-cleaning," meaning the old flowers fall off on their own. However, if you see spent blooms hanging on, pinching them off will keep the plant looking tidy and encourage it to put its energy into new blossoms.
Realistic Expectations and Patience
When you plant a begonia, especially a tuberous one, it requires a little bit of patience. They are not like petunias that explode with growth the moment they hit the soil. Begonias start slow. They spend the first few weeks building a strong root system underground. You might not see much happening above the soil for a while, but don't worry—the plant is working hard.
Once the weather stays consistently warm, begonias will take off. They will grow steadily and continue to bloom until the frost finally arrives. Every garden is different, and factors like your soil type, how much sun the spot gets, and even the local humidity will all play a role in how your plants perform. Part of the joy of gardening is observing these small changes and learning what works best in your own backyard. For broader planning help, see the Longfield Gardens Learn hub.
Key Takeaway: Success with begonias comes from matching the plant's tropical needs to your garden's conditions. Focus on warmth, shade, and consistent moisture for the best results.
Conclusion
So, is a begonia a perennial plant? The answer is a resounding yes, though they require a little extra care to survive in most American climates. Whether you choose the "hardy begonia" that stays in the ground, decide to dig and store your "tuberous begonias," or simply treat them as a one-season "annual" treat, these plants are well worth the effort. They provide a level of color and elegance that few other shade-loving plants can match.
At Longfield Gardens, we believe that gardening should be a rewarding and enjoyable experience for everyone. By understanding the simple needs of these tender perennials, you can make the best choice for your home and lifestyle. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned pro, begonias offer a reliable way to bring beauty to the shady parts of your world.
- Know your zone: Check your USDA zone to see if your begonias can stay outside.
- Pick your method: Decide if you want to store tubers, move pots inside, or plant new ones each year.
- Wait for warmth: Never plant begonias until the soil and air are truly warm.
- Enjoy the show: Once they start blooming, begonias will provide color until the very end of the season.
"Gardening is a continuous conversation between you and the earth. When you learn how a plant like the begonia survives the winter, you're not just growing a flower—you're understanding the rhythm of nature itself."
Ready to start your begonia journey? Take the next step by looking at your garden and identifying those shady spots that could use a pop of color. Once you've found the perfect place, we’re here to help you choose the varieties that will make your garden shine.
FAQ
Can I leave my begonia in the ground over winter?
You can only leave begonias in the ground if you live in USDA Zones 9, 10, or 11, where temperatures rarely drop below freezing. In colder zones, the only begonia that can stay in the ground is the Hardy Begonia (Begonia grandis), which is typically hardy to Zone 6. For all other types in colder climates, the plant will die if left outside during the winter.
How long can a begonia tuber live?
With proper care and overwintering, a begonia tuber can live for many years. Some gardeners have kept the same tubers for a decade or more! As the tuber gets older, it often grows larger and can produce a more substantial plant with even more flowers, though very old tubers may eventually lose some of their vigor.
Do begonias need to be brought inside before the first frost?
Ideally, yes. While a very light frost can signal dormancy for tuberous begonias, wax and rex begonias are very sensitive and should be moved inside as soon as nighttime temperatures consistently drop below 50°F. It is always safer to move them in a little early rather than waiting until a surprise freeze damages the foliage or stems.
Why didn't my stored begonia tubers grow the next spring?
The most common reasons stored tubers fail to grow are rot and drying out completely. If the tubers were stored in a place that was too damp, they might have rotted; if the storage area was too hot or dry, they may have shriveled up. Always check your tubers in the spring to make sure they feel firm and "hefty" rather than light and hollow or soft and mushy.
