Begonia 'Bellisa Flame' - 12 x Jumbo Plugs
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The Begonia 'Bellisa Flame' is ideal for gardeners seeking vibrant, long-lasting color in containers, hanging baskets, or shaded spots. Its key benefit is the striking fiery-orange double blooms that provide continuous interest from early summer to autumn. A minor consideration is its preference for moist, well-drained soil, requiring mindful watering. This variety offers a profusion of large, ruffled blooms, robust growth, and excellent weather tolerance, making it a reliable choice for adding dramatic flair to any garden with minimal fuss.
All features
| Model Part Number | bellisa Flame |
|---|---|
| Brand | Marshalls Garden |
Extended Product Information
FAQs
When is the best time to plant Begonia 'Bellisa Flame' outdoors?
Plant outdoors after the last frost date in your area, typically late May or early June, once the plants have been hardened off.
Can this begonia tolerate full sun?
Begonia 'Bellisa Flame' prefers sun or partial shade. While it can tolerate some direct sun, intense afternoon sun, especially in hot climates, may scorch the leaves. Partial shade is often ideal.
How often should I water my Begonia 'Bellisa Flame'?
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. This may be daily in hot weather or less frequently in cooler conditions.
What kind of soil is best for this begonia?
It thrives in moist, humus-rich soil that drains well. A slightly acidic pH (5.5–6.5) is preferred. Adding compost to the soil will improve its structure and fertility.
Do I need to deadhead Begonia 'Bellisa Flame'?
While not strictly required for continuous blooming, deadheading spent flowers can improve the plant's appearance and encourage further flower production.
Can I grow Begonia 'Bellisa Flame' indoors?
These plants are primarily grown for outdoor summer displays. While they can be started indoors, they are not typically suited for long-term indoor growing conditions.
What is the difference between these and other begonia varieties?
The 'Bellisa Flame' variety is specifically bred for its large, double, fiery-orange blooms and its robust growth habit, offering reliable color and weather tolerance suitable for containers and partial shade.
Troubleshooting
Plug plants arrive looking dry or limp.
Immediately soak the plug plants in a tray of water for about 15-20 minutes until they rehydrate. Then pot them on as per instructions.
Yellowing leaves.
This can be due to overwatering (root rot) or underwatering. Check soil moisture and adjust watering accordingly. Ensure good drainage.
Few or no flowers.
Ensure the plant is receiving adequate light (sun or part shade). Lack of nutrients can also be a cause; try feeding with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
Powdery mildew on leaves.
Improve air circulation around the plants. Avoid overhead watering. Apply a fungicide if the problem is severe.
Plants look leggy and weak.
This might indicate insufficient light or poor nutrition. Move to a brighter location or ensure regular feeding. Pinching out the growing tips can encourage bushier growth.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Provides striking, intense orange color.
- Blooms continuously from early summer until autumn.
- Suitable for a wide range of planting situations, including containers and shaded areas.
- Good weather tolerance ensures reliable flowering.
- Easy to cultivate, making it accessible for gardeners of all levels.
- Adds a touch of drama and luxury to garden displays.
Cons
- Requires moist but well-drained soil.
- May require regular watering, especially in dry conditions.
- Best performance in sun or part shade, less suited to deep shade.
- Supplied as plug plants, which need initial care and potting on.
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Setup:
Begonia 'Bellisa Flame' is supplied as strong, healthy plug plants. Upon arrival, it is recommended to:
- Potting On: Carefully remove the plug plants from their packaging. Pot them into individual small pots (e.g., 9cm pots) using a good quality, peat-free compost that is rich in organic matter and free-draining.
- Watering: Water thoroughly after potting, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- Environment: Place the potted plants in a warm, bright location, but avoid direct, harsh sunlight initially. A greenhouse or windowsill is ideal.
- Hardening Off: Before planting outdoors, gradually acclimate the young plants to outdoor conditions over a week to ten days. This process is known as hardening off.
Planting Outdoors:
- Timing: Plant out after the risk of frost has passed, typically in late May or early June.
- Location: Choose a site in sun or partial shade. Begonia 'Bellisa Flame' thrives in locations with 4-6 hours of sunlight per day.
- Soil: Prefers moist, humus-rich soil with a slightly acidic pH (5.5–6.5). Amend heavy soils with compost to improve drainage.
- Spacing: Space plants approximately 20-30 cm apart, depending on the desired density of the display.
Compatibility:
- Containers & Baskets: Excellent for pots, window boxes, and hanging baskets due to its compact and free-flowering nature.
- Borders: Suitable for mass planting in beds and borders, especially in areas with dappled shade.
- Companion Plants: Pairs well with other shade-tolerant or semi-shade loving plants such as fuchsias, impatiens, or hostas.
Care:
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but well-drained. Avoid allowing the soil to dry out completely, as this can stress the plant and reduce flowering. Water at the base of the plant to prevent fungal diseases on the foliage.
- Feeding: During the growing season, feed every 2-4 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer. A fertilizer high in potassium can encourage more blooms.
- Deadheading: While not strictly necessary for continuous flowering, removing spent blooms can help maintain a tidier appearance and encourage the plant to produce more flowers.
- Pest & Disease: Generally resistant, but watch for slugs and snails. Ensure good air circulation to minimize the risk of fungal issues like powdery mildew, especially in humid conditions.