Begonia

be-go ni-a, a large group of juicy flowering plants, known also as elephant's ear, and beefsteak geranium. There are about 300 species chiefly of tropical America, although some species are found in Asia and South Africa. The first begonia known in England, was introduced in 1777. Florists recognize four groups; the fibrous-rooted or winter-flowering; the semi-tuberous; the tuberous or summer-flowering; and the rex or ornamental leaved. Begonias may be propagated without difficulty by leaf or stem cuttings. The begonias have no near relatives. Their leaves are fleshy, and of many shapes. The flowers are white, pink, rose, scarlet, yellow, or variegated. Staminate and seed-bearing flowers grow together in loose cymes. The stigmas have the twisted shape of a corkscrew. The fruit is a three-winged capsule. The flowers of many specimens have a fuchsia effect. Begonias are favorite house plants. See Floriculture.