Common Name: hybrid tuberous begonia
Type: Herbaceous perennial
Family: Begoniaceae
Zone: 10 to 11
Height: 1.25 to 1.75 feet
Spread: 1.50 to 1.75 feet
Bloom Time: Seasonal bloomer
Bloom Description: Pale pink
Sun: Part shade to full shade
Water: Medium
Maintenance: Medium
Suggested Use: Annual
Leaf: Colorful
Culture
'Jurassic Pink Splash' is a hybrid begonia that is marketed as both a rex begonia and tuberous begonia. In general this plant is used as an annual, and prefers evenly moist, well-draining soil in part shade to full shade. Dappled sun is best. Hardy in Zones 10-11.
Noteworthy Characteristics
Begonia × tuberhybrida is a name applied to a group of hybrid, cultivated begonias known as tuberous begonias. Tuberous begonias are characterized by their thickened tubers which are used to store water and nutrients during the winter dormant period. These plants are mainly grown for their showy flowers, which come in a wide range of sizes and colors including pink, red, orange, yellow, and white.
Genus name honors Michael Begon (1638-1710), Governor of French Canada.
The hybrid name tuberhybrida means "hybrid tuber" and refers to both the hybrid parentage of these cultivated begonias and their tuberous growth.
'Jurassic Pink Splash' is a vigorous, fast-growing hybrid begonia that features colorful foliage and a densely branched, mounding to upright habit. The 5-9" long leaves are silvery with dark green, prominent venation, and pink centers. Mature plants will reach up to 20" tall with an equal spread. This begonia is marketed as a rex begonia while being assigned a scientific name most often used for tuberous begonias. This could be due to mixed parentage. In appearance it resembles rex begonias more than tuberous begonias.
Problems
Watch for ealybugs, aphids, whiteflies, slugs and snails. Susceptible to powdery mildew, botrytis, and stem rot, especially in humid conditions with poor air circulation. Tubers may rot if soils kept too moist.
Uses
Pots, baskets, containers or window boxes. Popular bedding annual used in borders or as a houseplant.