Begonia circumlobata 'Chandler's Hardy'

Palm Leaved Begonia Begoniaceae

A begonia with rather more backbone than its exotic appearance suggests. This handsome selection of Begonia circumlobata, collected in China by plantsman Shayne Chandler, produces deeply lobed, olive-green leaves liberally sprinkled with silvery-white markings, carried on handsome reddish stems. Come late summer, pale pink flowers rise above the foliage, providing an appropriately flamboyant finale. Deciduous and surprisingly tough, it has proved reliably hardy in mild gardens when given good drainage and a protective winter mulch. Best grown in shade or woodland conditions, where its tropical appearance can be enjoyed without having to actually move to the tropics. Height 45–50cm; spread 45–60cm.