Your guide to one of the easiest Begonias for beginners:
If you’re new to Begonias or just want a plant that rewards you with lush growth and stunning blooms, cane-type Begonias are an excellent place to start. Known for their upright stems and elegant clusters of flowers, cane Begonias are vigorous growers that can quickly become a standout in any plant collection.
Why Are Cane Begonias Great for Beginners?
Cane Begonias are some of the easiest Begonias to care for, but there are a few that require more care than others — making them ideal for both seasoned collectors and new enthusiasts. They thrive in shade to partial sun, moderate humidity (around 40–50%), and enjoy slightly drying out between waterings. With these simple conditions met, most cane begonias grow upright and bushy with minimal fuss in most growing conditions!
Propagation Made Simple!
One of the best parts of cane Begonias is how easy they are to propagate. We recommend a simple stem cutting method:
– Chop along the stem line — just be sure your cutting includes at least one node.
– Place the node into your preferred rooting method — whether soil, water, or your favorite rooting medium.
– Keep lightly moist until roots develop or be sure water changes if water propping or using semi-hydro.
Before long, you’ll have a whole new plant to enjoy or share!
Blooms That Change with the Seasons?
Not only are cane Begonias easy growers, but they’re also prolific bloomers. Recently, I learned from Begonia expert Don Miller, that cane Begonia flowers can even shift in color depending on lighting conditions or the season — a fascinating trait that makes them even more dynamic to grow. Leaf patterns on canes can change with growing conditions, season, and even maturity!
Understanding Cane Begonia Types:
The term “cane-like” covers a lot of ground. Cane Begonias can be:
– Species — Naturally occurring Begonias found in the wild. You’ll recognize them by their Latin binomial names (the second word is lowercase, like Begonia maculata). U-number Begonias, such as U038, are also species that haven’t yet been formally named but are recognized as species with the “U”. These typically grow best in a bit higher humidity but a lot are able to acclimate to a more mild condition unlike other types of Begonias.
– Hybrids — Created when two Begonias are crossbred. You’ll spot hybrids by their names in single quotes, like Begonia Pink Minx. These plants combine traits from both parents and are typically bred for unique foliage, growth habit, or flowers!
Care at a Glance:
– Light: Shade to partial sun
– Water: Allow to dry slightly between waterings
– Humidity: 40–50% is typically sufficient
Ready to grow your own? Try some of my favorite Cane-like Begonia out like Begonia 'Don Miller', Begonia 'Tingley Mallet', Begonia 'Elsa', and Begonia 'Steve's Leaves Zeste d'Orange'!
Browse our current selection of cane-type Begonias click here — all grown in-house at Steve’s Leaves.