Begonia Companion Plants: How to Choose the Best Plants for Your Garden

Have you ever wondered why your begonias aren't thriving despite giving them adequate care? One crucial factor that could be affecting the growth of your begonias is their companion plants. Just like people, plants have preferences when it comes to their neighbors. As such, choosing the right companion plants can improve the health and aesthetics of your garden.

Why Begonia Companion Plants Matter?

Begonias are beautiful, showy plants that come in various colors and sizes. They're perfect for adding color to your garden or indoor space. However, they require specific growing conditions, including temperature, water, and light. Choosing the right companion plants can help create a microclimate that supports their growth.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Begonia Companion Plants

To choose the best companion plants for begonias, you need to consider several factors. These include:

1. Soil Requirements

Begonias thrive in well-draining soil that's rich in organic matter. Therefore, you should choose companion plants with similar soil requirements. Some good options include ferns, hostas, and heucheras.

2. Sunlight

Begonias prefer partial shade to full shade. As such, you should choose companion plants that can tolerate the same amount of sunlight. Good options include impatiens, coleus, and caladiums.

3. Water Requirements

Begonias require regular watering to keep the soil moist. Therefore, you should choose companion plants with similar water requirements. Some good options include ferns, hostas, and hydrangeas.

4. Height and Spacing

Begonias come in different sizes, from the small bedding plants to the large tree begonias. Therefore, you should choose companion plants that are of a similar height and spacing to avoid overcrowding. Good options include ferns, hostas, and impatiens.

Companion Plants for Begonias

Now that you know what to consider when choosing companion plants for begonias, let's look at some good options.

1. Ferns

Ferns are excellent companions for begonias because they have similar soil and water requirements. They also provide an attractive backdrop for the showy begonias. Some good fern varieties include Japanese painted ferns and maidenhair ferns.

2. Hostas

Hostas are shade-loving plants that are ideal companions for begonias. They have similar water and soil requirements and come in various colors and sizes. Some good hosta varieties include 'Sum and Substance' and 'Patriot.'

3. Impatiens

Impatiens are annuals that thrive in partial to full shade. They're easy to grow and require minimal maintenance, making them perfect companions for begonias. Some good impatiens varieties include 'New Guinea' and 'Divine.'

4. Heucheras

Heucheras, also known as coral bells, are shade-loving perennials that provide year-round interest in the garden. They have similar soil and water requirements as begonias and come in various colors. Some popular heuchera varieties include 'Obsidian' and 'Peach Flambe.'

5. Caladiums

Caladiums are tropical plants that thrive in partial shade. They have attractive foliage that comes in various colors and patterns, making them perfect companions for begonias. Some good caladium varieties include 'Miss Muffet' and 'Candidum.'

How to Pair Begonias with Companion Plants

When pairing begonias with companion plants, you need to consider the color, texture, and size of both plants. Here are some tips to help you create a beautiful and harmonious garden:

1. Use Contrasting Colors

Pairing begonias with companion plants that have contrasting colors can create an eye-catching display. For example, you can pair pink begonias with blue hostas or white impatiens.

2. Mix Textures

Combining plants with different textures can add depth and interest to your garden. You can pair smooth-leaved begonias with ferns or heucheras with ruffled leaves.

3. Consider Size

Grouping plants of different sizes can create a sense of balance and harmony in the garden. For example, you can pair small bedding begonias with taller ferns or tree begonias with low-growing impatiens.

FAQs

Q1. Can I plant begonias with roses?

A:

Yes, you can plant begonias with roses. However, you need to ensure that the soil requirements and sunlight needs are similar. Also, make sure that the roses don't overshadow the begonias.

Q2. What is the best time to plant begonias?

A:

The best time to plant begonias is in the spring after the last frost. However, you can also plant them in the fall for a late-season bloom.

Q3. Can I grow begonias indoors?

A:

Yes, you can grow begonias indoors. They require bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged to avoid root rot.

Q4. Can I propagate my begonias?

A:

Yes, you can propagate your begonias through stem cuttings, leaf cuttings, or division. Make sure that the cutting has at least one node and remove any flowers or buds to encourage root growth.

Q5. How do I care for my begonias during the winter?

A:

Begonias are tropical plants and don't tolerate cold temperatures. Therefore, you should bring them indoors before the first frost. Keep them away from drafts and provide them with bright, indirect light. Water sparingly to avoid overwatering.


Choosing the right companion plants for your begonias can improve their growth and create a beautiful and harmonious garden. When choosing companion plants, consider factors such as soil requirements, sunlight, water, height, and spacing. Some good companion plants for begonias include ferns, hostas, impatiens, heucheras, and caladiums. Remember to pair plants with contrasting colors, mix textures, and consider size when creating a display. Happy gardening!