Begonia hatacoa var. hatacoa

Begonia Begoniaceae

A particularly handsome Himalayan begonia, grown for its elegant, slightly asymmetric leaves and charming sprays of white flowers delicately marked with pink. Native from Nepal, Bhutan, Tibet and northeastern India eastwards into Myanmar, Thailand, Laos and Vietnam, it is found in moist, shady woodland and rocky habitats, often at moderate to high elevations.

Give it humus-rich, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil in partial or dappled shade, protected from hot afternoon sun. Despite its Himalayan origins, its outdoor hardiness is not well documented in the UK, so it is best regarded as a plant for a sheltered, frost-free or very protected position, particularly when young.

Height: 30–50cm
Spread: 30–45cm
Flowers: Summer–autumn
Hardiness: Not reliably hardy outdoors; protect from frost

A choice begonia for the adventurous gardener — Himalayan credentials, woodland elegance and just enough mystery to keep things interesting.