PLANT PROFILE:
Hardy Begonia
(Begonia grandis evansiana)

Finding a perennial that is disease resistant, low maintenance, drought tolerant, long blooming, cold hardy and attractive can be a very difficult task; the hardy begonia fits the bill. This tough, tender-looking plant has beautiful, cascading sprays of pink or white blooms that can last for a month or more. It is drought tolerant and performs well in partial shade to shady settings. The hardy begonia also freely divides itself by both self-seeding and quickly multiplying root mass.

Give it moist, well-drained soil that is neutral to slightly acidic. Protect the clumps in winter with a generous 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch, and mass it with Hosta, Astilbe and spring bulbs for a shade bed that has multi-season interest.