Begonia & Impatiens

Begonia & Impatiens

Begonias and impatiens are two of the best choices for adding long-lasting color to shady spaces. These dependable annuals thrive where many other flowers won’t, brightening porches, patios, and garden beds with nonstop blooms from spring until frost. Whether you prefer the glossy leaves and tidy growth of fibrous begonias, the bold flowers of tuberous types, or the lush, full look of impatiens, each offers an easy way to bring vibrant life to low-light areas.

Varieties and Features

Fibrous Begonia

  • Height & Spread: 6–8 inches tall; spreads about 8 inches
  • Light: Shade to filtered sun
  • Bloom Time: Blooms continuously until frost
  • Traits: Low-growing, low-maintenance, and heat-tolerant
  • Cold Sensitivity: Frost tender
  • Care Tip: Keep soil moderately moist but avoid overwatering

Tuberous Begonia

  • Height & Spread: Varies; available in upright and trailing varieties
  • Light: Shade to partial shade
  • Bloom Time: All summer until frost
  • Traits: Large, showy flowers; ideal for baskets and containers
  • Cold Sensitivity: Frost tender
  • Common Issue: Root rot from overwatering — allow soil to dry slightly before watering
  • Care Tip: Keep soil almost dry before rewatering; use well-draining soil

Impatiens

  • Height & Spread: 8–12 inches tall; spreads to about 10 inches
  • Light: Shade
  • Bloom Time: Continuous color until frost
  • Traits: Excellent for adding color to shaded areas
  • Cold Sensitivity: Frost tender
  • Care Tip: Water consistently; don’t allow soil to dry completely

Double Impatiens

  • Height & Spread: 8–12 inches tall; spreads to about 10 inches
  • Light: Shade
  • Bloom Time: Continuous color until frost
  • Traits: High petal count; blooms resemble miniature roses
  • Cold Sensitivity: Frost tender
  • Care Tip: Keep evenly moist and protect from temperature extremes

New Guinea Impatiens

  • Height & Spread: 12–18 inches tall; spreads about 12 inches
  • Light: Partial sun to shade
  • Bloom Time: All summer until frost
  • Traits: Large, richly colored blooms; more sun-tolerant than standard impatiens
  • Cold Sensitivity: Frost tender
  • Care Tip: Tolerates morning or filtered sun; avoid hot afternoon exposure
Plant Type Growth Habit and Size Light Preference Notable Traits Care Tips
Fibrous Begonia 6–8″ tall, spreads to 8″  Shade to filtered sun Low-growing, low-maintenance, good heat tolerance, frost tender Blooms until frost; keep soil moderately moist
Tuberous Begonia Upright or trailing forms Shade to partial shade Large, showy flowers; great for containers or baskets Avoid overwatering—let soil almost dry between waterings to prevent root rot
Impatiens 8–12″ tall, spreads to 10″ Shade  Bright color for shady areas; frost tender Keep evenly moist; excellent for borders or mass plantings
Double Impatiens Similar size to standard impatiens Shade High petal count; resembles miniature roses Water regularly but don’t oversaturate; great in containers or shaded beds
New Guinea Impatiens Taller and larger-blooming Partial sun to shade Larger, richly colored flowers; more sun tolerant than standard impatiens Tolerates more light but still prefers protection from intense heat

Whether you prefer the bold color of begonias or the constant bloom of impatiens, both are reliable choices for adding vibrant life to shaded areas of your garden. With the right light, watering, and care, these plants will reward you with lush growth and long-lasting color all season long. Stop by the garden center if you need help choosing varieties or want advice on keeping them healthy and thriving.