Begonia Elegance Begonia Elegance = 'Yagance' (PBR) (Million Kisses Series)
ABOUT
Begonia Elegance, which is part of the Million Kisses Series, boasts a striking and graceful appearance. The plant is adorned with abundant, delicate-looking flowers. These blooms are typically a soft shade of pink, which can range from a pale, almost white-pink, to a more pronounced rosy hue, each edged with subtle, yet contrasting tones that may appear as lighter or darker accents, highlighting the elegant form of its petals. The foliage of Begonia Elegance complements its floral display with lush, heart-shaped leaves. The leaves exhibit a glossy texture and may present with a deep green color, forming a dense and vibrant backdrop for the flowers. In some cases, the leaves could have a reddish or bronzy undertone, especially on the undersides, which further enhances the visual appeal of the plant. Displaying a cascading habit, the stems of Begonia Elegance gracefully spill over the edges of containers or hanging baskets, making it an ideal choice for elevated or suspended displays where its opulent blooms can trail downwards. This growth pattern contributes to the overall ornamental impact of the plant, creating a sense of movement and abundance. Moreover, Begonia Elegance is known for its continuous blooming nature, often producing a profusion of flowers that can last from spring into the fall. The combined beauty of its flowers and foliage, as well as its growth habit, makes Begonia Elegance an attractive and sought-after plant for gardeners looking to add a touch of elegance and romance to their plant collections.
About this plant
- Names
Family
Begoniaceae
Synonyms
Million Kisses Elegance, Begonia Million Kisses Elegance
Common names
Begonia Elegance 'Yagance' (PBR) (Million Kisses Series).
- Toxicity
To humans
Begonias, including the Begonia 'Million Kisses' variety, are generally not considered highly toxic to humans. However, they do contain oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation to the skin, mouth, tongue, and throat if ingested. Symptoms of begonia ingestion can include a burning sensation in the affected area, swelling, and difficulty swallowing. In rare cases, severe digestive upset can occur. It is advisable to keep begonias out of reach of children who might be tempted to chew on the plant material.
To pets
Begonias, such as the 'Million Kisses' begonia, are considered toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. These plants contain insoluble oxalates which, when ingested, can lead to symptoms like oral irritation, intense burning and irritation of the mouth, tongue, and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. It is important to prevent pets from accessing and ingesting parts of the plant to avoid these adverse reactions.
- Characteristics
Life cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
1 foot (30 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
10
Native area
Central and South America
Benefits
- General Benefits
- Easy to grow: The plant is relatively low-maintenance, requiring minimal care to thrive.
- Continuous blooming: It produces flowers throughout the growing season, adding long-lasting color to garden spaces.
- Drought-tolerant: Once established, it can withstand periods of dry weather, making it suitable for various climates.
- Attracts pollinators: The flowers attract butterflies and bees, which help pollinate other plants in the garden.
- Ideal for baskets and containers: Its trailing habit makes it perfect for hanging baskets and container gardening.
- Vibrant foliage: The leaves of the plant add aesthetic appeal with their lush, green appearance.
- Versatile use: It can be used in landscaping as ground cover or in mixed borders for a splash of color.
- Medical Properties
This plant is not used for medical purposes.
- Air-purifying Qualities
This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
- Other Uses
- Art and Craft Projects: The colorful leaves and flowers can be pressed and used in scrapbooking, card making, or as a natural dye for fabrics.
- Photography Subject: Due to its striking appearance, Begonia Elegance can be a captivating subject for botanical photography, offering intricate details and vibrant colors.
- Education and Study: Botany students or enthusiasts can use the Begonia Elegance as a live specimen to study plant structure, growth patterns, and hybridization results.
- Event Decorations: The plant can be incorporated into floral arrangements or table centerpieces for weddings, parties, and other events for a fresh and unique look.
- Garden Companionship: Planted alongside vegetables, Begonia Elegance can add aesthetic value to kitchen gardens and may help in attracting pollinators.
- Edible Arrangements: Although not typically consumed, the flowers can be used as an ornamental edible garnish for plating and presentation of culinary dishes, if confirmed safe.
- Bonsai Creation: With careful pruning, Begonia Elegance could potentially be grown as a bonsai, providing an unusual twist on this traditional art form.
- Temperature Indicator: The plant's well-being can act as an indicator of the microclimate, signaling if the environment is too cold or too warm for other sensitive plants.
- Mood Enhancement: Simply having Begonia Elegance in a living or working space can offer aesthetic pleasure, potentially boosting mood and creativity.
- Collector’s Specimen: Horticulture enthusiasts may cultivate rare and unique plants like Begonia Elegance as part of a specialized collection showcasing different hybrids and species.
Interesting Facts
- Feng Shui
The Begonia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
- Zodiac Sign Compitability
The Begonia is not used in astrology practice.
- Plant Symbolism
- Caution: Begonia commonly symbolizes a warning or caution. This might be a reflection of the plant's history where it was believed that begonias could ward off evil spirits.
- Gratitude: Begonia can also represent gratitude. Giving begonias might be a way to express thanks or deep appreciation for someone special.
- Harmony: With their balanced and symmetrical growth, begonias can signify harmony, suggesting a peaceful and well-balanced relationship.
- Individuality: The unique patterns and colors of each begonia flower suggest individuality and the idea that everyone is distinctive in their own way.
- Water
The Begonia Elegance, commonly known as the Million Kisses Begonia, should be watered regularly, ensuring the soil is consistently moist but not soggy. They should be watered approximately once a week, but this can vary depending on temperature and humidity. It's best to check the top inch of soil; if it's dry, it's time to water. Use a watering can to gently water the soil, avoiding the leaves to prevent fungal diseases, and provide roughly 8-16 ounces of water each time, depending on the size of the container and the plant's needs.
- Light
Million Kisses Begonias prefer bright, indirect light, so placing them in an area that receives dappled sunlight is ideal. They should be protected from direct afternoon sun, which can scorch their delicate leaves. An east or west-facing window where the plant gets morning or evening sun is best, or a few feet away from a south-facing window.
- Temperature
Million Kisses Begonias thrive in temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate a minimum temperature of 50 degrees Fahrenheit during the night, but temperatures below this can harm the plant. High temperatures above 86 degrees Fahrenheit should also be avoided, as they can cause stress to the plant.
- Pruning
Pruning Million Kisses Begonias is important for encouraging bushier growth and removing any dead or diseased foliage. Pinch back the tips of the stems during the growing season to promote branching. Perform a more thorough pruning to shape the plant or remove any leggy growth in early spring before new growth begins.
- Cleaning
As needed
- Soil
Begonias such as the Million Kisses Elegance prefer a well-draining soil mix composed of peat moss, perlite, and pine bark in equal parts. The ideal pH for this begonia should be slightly acidic, ranging from 5.5 to 6.5 for optimal growth.
- Repotting
Million Kisses Elegance Begonias should be repotted every one to two years, or when the plant outgrows its current pot and roots start to circle the bottom.
- Humidity & Misting
Million Kisses Elegance Begonias thrive in moderate to high humidity levels, ideally around 50-60%, which supports their lush foliage and vibrant blooms.
- Suitable locations
Indoor
Provide bright, indirect light and keep the soil moist.
Outdoor
Place in partial shade, protect from strong winds and frost.
Hardiness zone
10-11 USDA
- Life cycle
Begonia Elegance, commonly known as the Begonia Million Kisses, begins its life as a seed or cutting, which when planted, germinates or roots within a few weeks under the right conditions of moisture and temperature. The seedling or rooted cutting then develops into a juvenile plant with characteristic heart-shaped leaves and begins to establish a root system. As the plant matures, it enters a vigorous growth phase where it produces long, trailing stems and an abundance of delicate flowers ranging from pink to white throughout the growing season, usually from spring to autumn. After blooming, if the faded flowers are removed (deadheading), the plant can continue to produce new flowers, prolonging the flowering stage. In regions with colder climates, Begonia Million Kisses is treated as an annual, completing its life cycle within one year, but in milder climates or when overwintered indoors, it can survive as a perennial, going dormant in the winter before resuming growth in the spring. Eventually, after completing its growth and reproduction stages, the plant will senesce and die, although it can leave behind seeds or be propagated through cuttings to begin the cycle anew.
- Propogation
Propogation time
Spring-Summer
The most popular method of propagation for the Begonia Elegance 'Yagance' from the Million Kisses Series is through stem cuttings. This process is best undertaken in late spring to early summer, coinciding with the plant's most active growth phase. To propagate, select a healthy stem about 4 to 6 inches long (approximately 10 to 15 cm) with a few leaves attached. Cut just below a node, where the leaf joins the stem, using a clean, sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears. Remove the lower leaves to expose a clean section of stem, and insert the cutting into a pot filled with a well-draining soil mix. Ensure the cutting is placed in a warm, indirect light area and kept moist. Roots usually develop within a few weeks, after which the new plant can gradually acclimate to typical growing conditions.