Begonia 'Bronze Leaf Red' Bulbs

'Bronze Leaf Red' is a tuberous begonia admired for its large, showy flowers and equally striking colorful foliage. This remarkable plant showcases camellia-like, dark red double blooms set against bronzed, prominently veined leaves, beginning in early summer and continuing into fall. As a frost-tender perennial (Zones 9-10), it is often grown as a houseplant or as an annual in cooler climates, reaching a mature height of approximately 6 to 8 inches—perfect for patio pots or hanging baskets.

'Bronze Leaf Red' belongs to the Begonia rex-cultorum species, commonly known as painted leaf begonia or rex begonia, a subgroup of rhizomatous begonias native to Bolivia and Peru. With its compact, mounding habit, it is an excellent choice for containers, small-space gardens, and ideal for planting along pathways.

This begonia thrives in partially shady to shady locations with slightly acidic soil (pH 5.5-6.5) rich in organic matter and kept evenly moist. Ensure the soil drains quickly and freely, as tubers are prone to rot in soggy conditions. Regularly remove faded flowers and leaves to encourage continuous blooming. Additionally, 'Bronze Leaf Red' is deer resistant.

For garden planting, group 'Bronze Leaf Red' bulbs in warm spring soil after the threat of frost has passed, spacing them 8 to 14 inches apart and planting 1 to 2 inches deep. In containers, use one bulb per 7- to 10-inch pot.

While tuberous begonias are generally easy to grow, rex begonias prefer humid conditions and are intolerant of the hot, dry climates found in the desert Southwest. They may also struggle in the Deep South without special care, including ample shade—particularly from the intense afternoon sun—and frequent watering.

In northern regions, start bulbs indoors in late winter or early spring to achieve summer blooms; then, after the danger of frost has passed, move plants outdoors or continue growing them indoors in a warm, humid environment.