The wax begonia (Begonia semperflorens) is a popular flowering annual cultivated primarily for mass plantings in beds and containers. It is easily identifiable by its glossy, succulent leaves that possess a distinctive, water-repellent sheen. Its compact, mounding growth habit allows it to bloom continuously from late spring until the first frost, making it a favored choice for consistent garden color. The broad spectrum of flower and foliage colors available allows for immense versatility in garden design.
The Primary Flower Color Range
The flower color palette centers on three main hues: white, pink, and red. White varieties range from pure snow-white to softer, creamy or blush-tinged shades, providing a crisp contrast against the foliage. These lighter blossoms often feature a prominent yellow stamen at the center, enhancing their brightness.
The pink spectrum spans from delicate, pale rose to vibrant, deep magenta or fuchsia, creating a softer aesthetic in garden borders. Red varieties offer the most intense color, including bright, fiery scarlet tones and darker, crimson shades.
The flowers of Begonia semperflorens are typically small, numerous, and held above the foliage, forming a solid mass of color. This dense flowering habit, combined with the saturation of the primary colors, makes the wax begonia a reliable source of season-long color.
Foliage Color and Contrast
The aesthetic range of the wax begonia is expanded by its leaf color, which provides a dramatic canvas for the flowers. The two primary foliage types are vibrant green and deep, coppery bronze. Green-leaved varieties span from lighter chartreuse to richer, darker forest green.
Bronze foliage is often described as mahogany, deep ruby, or reddish-maroon. This coloration results from anthocyanin pigments, which become more pronounced in higher light conditions, making these varieties more sun-tolerant. The choice between green and bronze foliage is important for garden planning.
Selecting a deep red flower against bronze leaves creates a sophisticated, monochromatic look. Conversely, planting a pure white flower on a bronze-leaved plant yields maximum contrast, resulting in a striking display. The waxy texture of both foliage types adds a reflective quality.
Specialized Color Combinations
Hybridization has introduced specialized varieties featuring complex color patterns beyond the solid primary colors. One common variation is the bicolor or picotee flower, where the main petal color is edged with a contrasting shade, such as a light pink center with a thin margin of deep rose or red pigment. Other cultivars display a central eye, where the base of the petals surrounding the prominent yellow reproductive parts is a different color than the rest of the blossom. This pattern often presents as a white or blush flower with a deep pink or red center. The bloom structure also contributes to color perception; some varieties are double-blooming, creating a fluffier, rose-like appearance that concentrates the color mass.