Leaf Cuttings FYI

 This is how begonia leaf cuttings are done. While I prefer the whole leaf method, cutting off excess leaf around the outer edges, wedges work in more controlled environments. The cuttings to the left are in pure perlite - the method of choice in hot, humid summers. Add vermiculite under lights or in winter.

Begonia 'River Nile' - a beautiful Brad Thompson rhizomatous hybrid. It grows to a medium size, has waxy, attractive leaves and is easy to grow. On the High Recommended List!

My hybrid, B. 'Kissimmee', a large growing rhizomatous hybrid that I created in the 1990's. It has rich, dark, bronzy chocolate leaves and tall pink flowers. Here in Florida, it is a landscape plant. The begonia is named for a city in Central Florida, and the river nearby. Being an indian name, it means something to do with running waters - so rare here in FL. Enjoy!

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Go to this link and see the very beautiful B. brevimosa. It is a species with GORGEOUS leaves from New Guinea requiring high humidity and warmth. If you can provide a terrarium big enough, it is worth the effort!

Look at all those gorgeous rhizomatous begonias! This is an example of some of the beautiful begonias that are available, not just on the market, but from my growhouses. The colors, textures, and growth habits are so diverse. Thanks to my pal Lloyd for sharing his photo.

This is my hybrid, 'Ambersweet', named for the sweet Florida citrus variety. It is a compact blooming, orange flowered cane. I lost it once, but now it is back and I am growing it up for sale. Yes, those orange flowers glow!

B. 'Lynda Dawn'

                              This is a shrub-like hybrid I created in the 1990's. It is very full growing with
summer blooms of rosy-red, and an easy plant to grow. It slows down in winter, but grows very
fast come warmer weather. I lost it in the hurricanes of 2004. Perhaps I will get it back one day?