Begonias are popular flowering plants known for their vibrant colors and attractive foliage. Purple varieties offer unique charm, adding richness to any plant collection, making them a sought-after choice for indoor and outdoor settings.
Exploring Purple Begonias
The captivating purple color in begonias comes from anthocyanin pigments, which also create red and blue hues. Shades vary from deep, almost black-purple to iridescent lavender, influenced by light and plant health. Some begonias feature purple flowers, while others are prized for their intensely purple foliage, providing year-round color. Their diverse growth habits, from compact to larger forms, make them adaptable for various display purposes.
Cultivating Purple Begonias
Proper care helps purple begonias thrive and display their full color. Providing the right conditions for light, water, soil, temperature, and nutrition supports healthy growth and abundant blooms.
Light Requirements
Purple begonias prefer bright, indirect light. An east or north-facing window is ideal, as direct afternoon sun can scorch leaves and fade their purple coloration. Outdoors, choose a spot with dappled shade or morning sun, protected from intense midday sun. Adequate light also encourages blooming in flowering varieties.
Watering Techniques
Begonias prefer consistently moist soil but are susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry before watering again. Use pots with drainage holes to prevent water accumulation. Avoid getting water directly on leaves to prevent fungal issues like powdery mildew.
Soil Preferences
A well-draining, airy potting mix is suitable for purple begonias. Incorporating amendments like perlite, coco coir, or sphagnum moss improves drainage and aeration, preventing root rot. Begonias prefer slightly acidic soil (pH 5.5-6.0). For container plants, replace potting soil every few years to maintain nutrient levels.
Temperature and Humidity
Most begonias, originating from tropical regions, prefer warm temperatures and high humidity. An ideal range is 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C). Avoid cold drafts or sudden temperature changes, which can stress the plant and cause leaf drop. To increase humidity, especially indoors, use a pebble tray or a room humidifier.
Fertilization
Begonias benefit from regular fertilization during their active growing season. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer, such as a 20-20-20 blend, diluted to half strength, every two to four weeks for container plants. For flowering varieties, a high-phosphorus fertilizer (e.g., 15-30-15) encourages more blooms. Slow-release granular fertilizers can also be incorporated into the soil at planting or monthly during the growing season.
Popular Purple Begonia Varieties
Many begonia varieties showcase beautiful purple tones in their flowers or foliage. Rex begonias are known for their ornamental leaves, often featuring striking purple, silver, and green patterns, such as ‘Purple Blush’ with its metallic sheen and purple hearts, ‘Purple Curl’ with metallic hot pink to red leaves and spiral shape, and ‘Purple Rain’ with lavender leaves. Cane begonias also feature purple tones, sometimes on the undersides of their leaves or in their stems, complementing their flowers.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with proper care, purple begonias may encounter challenges, and promptly addressing these issues helps maintain the plant’s health and appearance. For instance, fading purple foliage often indicates too much direct sunlight; move the plant to brighter, indirect light to restore color. If a begonia is not blooming, it may be due to insufficient light, improper watering, or lack of nutrients; ensure adequate bright, indirect light and consistent fertilization. Common pests like spider mites, aphids, mealybugs, and whiteflies can be managed with regular inspection and prompt treatment using insecticidal soap or neem oil. Fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot, often caused by overly wet conditions or poor air circulation, can be prevented by allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings and ensuring good air movement.