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filtered light (behind a sheer curtain, or set back 2-3 feet from a sunny window. A grow light 8-10 inches away works well); tolerates partial shade. Avoid direct sun (right in the window where sun actually hits the leaves. A strong grow light 4-6 inches away can substitute). An east-facing window or a spot a few feet from a brighter window works well.Light
Keep soil moist but not soggy. Water when the top inch feels dry. Rhizomatous begonias store water in their rhizomes and tolerate irregular watering better than other begonia types.Water
Prefers around 50% humidity. More tolerant of average indoor humidity than rex begonias. Avoid direct misting (note: misting does not actually raise humidity meaningfully. A pebble tray or humidifier is more effective).Humidity
Does best between 65-75°F (18-24°C); does not tolerate cold drafts or temperatures below 55°F.Temperature
moderateDifficulty
Begonia president plant

Begonia president

Begonia president

Moderate

Begonia 'President' is a rhizomatous hybrid begonia grown primarily for its large, attractively patterned foliage -- the leaves can exceed 6 inches across and display the rich coloring and textural detail typical of this begonia class. It grows from a creeping rhizome that spreads near the soil surface, sending up a mounding dome of foliage, and produces airy clusters of flowers on stems above the leaves, typically in late winter through spring. Like most rhizomatous types, it is more forgiving of neglect than cane or rex begonias and is a solid choice for indoor growing.

Begonia president plant
Wikimedia Commons contributor, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Begonia president plant
Wikimedia Commons contributor, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Care Guide

How to grow Begonia president

Light

filtered light (behind a sheer

Water

Keep soil moist but not soggy.

Humidity

50%

Temperature

65-75°F

Soil

Well-draining, peat-based or peat-free potting

Propagation

Easily propagated by rhizome division

Common Problems

Powdery mildew if leaves are kept wet.

Did You Know

Fun Facts

Rhizomatous begonias like 'President' represent the largest class of begonias by number of cultivars -- over 4,000 registered cultivars in the rhizomatous group alone, according to the American Begonia Society.

Pet Safety

Toxic to pets

Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses (calcium oxalate crystals). The underground rhizome and roots are the most toxic parts. Keep away from pets.

Sources

  1. A Beginner's Guide to Begonias: Classification and Diversity - University of Florida IFAS (opens in new tab)Reference
  2. Begonia President (President Begonia) - Backyard Gardener (opens in new tab)Reference
  3. Begonia President (President Begonia) - Backyard Gardener (opens in new tab)Reference
  4. Begonia Rhizomatous Types - NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox (opens in new tab)Reference
  5. Rhizomatous Begonia Care: Learn How To Grow Rhizomatous Begonias - Gardening Know How (opens in new tab)Reference
  6. Rhizomatous Begonia Care: Learn How To Grow Rhizomatous Begonias - Gardening Know How (opens in new tab)Reference
  7. Rhizomatous Begonias - American Begonia Society (opens in new tab)Reference
  8. Rhizomatous Begonias - American Begonia Society (opens in new tab)Reference
  9. A Beginner's Guide to Begonias: Classification and Diversity - University of Florida IFAS (opens in new tab)University Extension
  10. Begonia Rhizomatous Types - NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox (opens in new tab)University Extension
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