Begonia boliviensis aka Begonia Bonfire

Begonia boliviensis thrives in temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C). It is not frost hardy and will suffer damage when temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C). In cooler climates, bring plants indoors before the first frost. During winter dormancy, store tubers in a cool location around 40-50°F (4-10°C). Avoid placing plants near drafts, heating vents, or air conditioning units as sudden temperature fluctuations can stress the plant.

Begonia boliviensis typically reaches 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) in height with a similar spread. The plant has a graceful trailing habit that makes it ideal for hanging baskets, where stems can cascade 2 feet or more over the edges. It grows from tuberous roots and reaches mature size within one growing season. The RHS-awarded cultivar 'Bonfire' tends to be more compact, while 'Santa Cruz' can reach 12-16 inches tall and wide.

Begonia boliviensis produces stunning tubular flowers from summer through autumn, typically blooming continuously from late spring until the first frost. The species displays bright orange to orange-red flowers with four distinctive curved petals, measuring 2-3 inches long and hanging in clusters of two or three. Flowers are self-cleaning and require no deadheading. The blooms resemble fuchsias and attract pollinators while adding vibrant color to containers and baskets.

Several award-winning cultivars are available. 'Bonfire' (released 2005) features compact growth with brilliant orange flowers and is ideal for hanging baskets. 'Santa Cruz' produces masses of fiery red-orange blooms and is notably heat and drought-tolerant. The 'Bossa Nova' series offers colors including red, orange, and white with a compact, bushy habit. 'Bellfire' is distinctive for its plum-colored foliage with salmon flowers. Both 'Bonfire' and 'Million Kisses Elegance' have received the RHS Award of Garden Merit.

Begonia boliviensis can grow outdoors in USDA zones 8-11, where tubers may survive winter with protection. In colder zones, it is grown as an annual or the tubers must be lifted and stored frost-free over winter. Plant outdoors after all danger of frost has passed in a sheltered location with partial shade. The species is surprisingly heat and drought-tolerant once established, handling temperatures up to 100°F if given adequate moisture. It thrives in containers, hanging baskets, and window boxes that can be moved indoors before frost.

The easiest method is stem cuttings taken in spring or early summer. Select healthy stems and cut just below a node using sterilized tools. Root cuttings in moist potting mix under a clear plastic cover to maintain humidity. Cuttings typically root within a few weeks and will flower the same season. Tuber division is possible but riskier as cut surfaces are prone to rot.

Begonia boliviensis requires minimal pruning during the growing season as flowers are self-cleaning and drop naturally. Pinching stem tips when plants are young encourages bushier growth. After the first frost, cut stems back fully as the plant enters dormancy. Remove any yellowing or damaged leaves throughout the season to maintain appearance and prevent disease. Store the tubers frost-free over winter after the foliage has completely died back.

Repot or plant tubers in spring when starting new growth. Use fresh, well-draining potting mix with added perlite to prevent waterlogging. Choose containers with drainage holes and pot tubers shallowly, about half an inch deep. After winter storage, check tubers for rot before repotting and discard any that are soft or moldy. Container-grown plants benefit from annual repotting with fresh soil to replenish nutrients.

Common pests include mealybugs, spider mites, aphids, thrips, and vine weevils. Check undersides of leaves regularly and treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Disease issues include powdery mildew (white powder on leaves), stem rot and rhizome rot (from overwatering), botrytis (gray mold in humid conditions), and bacterial leaf spot (water-soaked spots with yellow halos). Prevent problems by ensuring good air circulation, avoiding overhead watering, and not letting plants sit in wet soil.

Yellow leaves are most commonly caused by overwatering and root rot, as this species is sensitive to soggy soil. Check that your pot has drainage holes and allow the top inch of soil to dry between waterings. Other causes include underwatering (check if soil is bone dry), nutrient deficiencies, pest infestations (especially mealybugs, aphids, or spider mites), or insufficient light. If the plant is rootbound or the soil has depleted nutrients, consider repotting with fresh potting mix.

Brown leaf edges typically indicate the plant is drying out too much between waterings. Water when the top 50-75% of soil is dry and always water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom. Brown, crispy patches can result from too much direct sunlight scorching the leaves. Move plants to bright indirect light or morning sun only. Brown spots surrounded by yellow halos may indicate bacterial leaf spot disease, which requires removing affected leaves and improving air circulation.

Drooping leaves most often signal a watering issue. Check the soil—if waterlogged, the tubers may be rotting and the plant needs drier conditions and possibly a pot with better drainage. If the soil is very dry, water thoroughly and the plant should recover. Other causes include temperature stress from cold drafts or sudden temperature changes, low humidity (try misting around but not on the plant), or root damage from pests like vine weevil larvae. Ensure temperatures stay above 50°F (10°C).

Gently dust leaves with a soft, dry cloth or brush to remove accumulated dust. Unlike many houseplants, begonias should not have their leaves misted or wiped with wet cloths as moisture on the foliage encourages powdery mildew. If leaves become dirty, you can carefully wipe individual leaves with a slightly damp cloth and then immediately dry them. Maintain good air circulation around the plant and remove any dead or yellowing leaves promptly to keep the plant looking tidy and prevent disease.