Begonia tub. 'Bonfire'

Introducing Begonia tuberhybrida 'Bonfire'

Begonia tuberhybrida 'Bonfire' is a spectacular flowering plant renowned for its fiery, cascading display of brilliant orange-red blooms and vibrant green, serrated foliage. A tuberous begonia with a semi-trailing habit, 'Bonfire' is perfect for hanging baskets, containers, and window boxes, bringing bold colour to patios and balconies from late spring through to the first frosts. Its prolific flowering and easy-care nature make it a firm favourite among gardeners looking to brighten up shaded outdoor spaces.

Planting and Positioning

For the healthiest and most floriferous plants, it’s important to get the planting location and growing conditions right. Begonia 'Bonfire' performs best in sheltered, partially shaded environments.

• Light Requirements:

  • Prefers partial shade to dappled sunlight; avoid harsh midday sun, which may scorch the leaves.

  • Can tolerate some morning or late afternoon sun, especially in cooler climates.

• Ideal Planting Sites:

  • Excellent in hanging baskets, containers, and window boxes where the trailing habit can be appreciated.

  • Also suitable for raised beds or the front of shady borders.

• Soil and Compost:

  • Requires well-draining, rich compost or soil; a mix of peat-free compost and perlite or sand ensures proper drainage.

  • Avoid heavy, clay soils that retain too much water and risk tuber rot.

• Spacing:

  • When planting in containers, allow 15–20 cm between plants to encourage airflow and healthy growth.

• When to Plant:

  • Plant tubers indoors in early spring (February–March) for an early start, or outdoors once all risk of frost has passed.

Ongoing Care and Maintenance

Once established, Begonia 'Bonfire' is relatively low maintenance and continues to bloom abundantly with regular care.

• Watering:

  • Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

  • Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, particularly during hot weather.

  • Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of mildew or fungal leaf spots.

• Feeding:

  • Feed with a balanced liquid fertiliser every 2–3 weeks during the growing and flowering season.

  • High-potassium feeds will encourage more blooms (e.g., tomato fertiliser).

• Deadheading:

  • Remove spent flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming and maintain a tidy appearance.

• Pest and Disease Watch:

  • Generally resilient but may attract aphids, mealybugs, or slugs.

  • Ensure good air circulation to prevent powdery mildew or botrytis (grey mould).

• Staking or Support:

  • In windy locations, container-grown plants may benefit from light staking to prevent stems from snapping.

• Overwintering:

  • Being a tender tuberous plant, Begonia 'Bonfire' is not frost-hardy.

  • In autumn, once the foliage dies back, lift the tubers, dry them off, and store them in a cool, frost-free place in dry peat or sand.

  • Replant in spring for another colourful display.

Seasonal Impact and Garden Uses

Begonia 'Bonfire' delivers dramatic, long-lasting colour that transforms shaded spaces and patio areas.

• Flowering Period:

  • Blooms continuously from late spring to the first frosts.

  • Flower colour is a vivid, almost neon orange-red, creating a bold visual contrast against lush green leaves.

• Growth Habit and Size:

  • Compact yet vigorous.

  • Grows to about 30–40 cm tall with a spread or trailing length of 40–50 cm.

  • Its cascading habit makes it ideal for elevated containers and baskets.

• Great For:

  • Adding instant colour to shady balconies, patios, and porches.

  • Combining with trailing lobelia, fuchsias, or bacopa in mixed containers.

  • Bringing colour to darker garden corners or under the canopy of trees.

• Wildlife Benefits:

  • Attracts pollinators such as bees with its vivid, nectar-rich blooms.

• Container Tips:

  • Use containers with good drainage holes.

  • Elevate pots on feet or bricks to prevent waterlogging and promote airflow.

Begonia tuberhybrida 'Bonfire' is a show-stopping, versatile plant that rewards gardeners with months of vibrant colour and lush growth. With just a little care and protection from frost, it will return year after year to brighten outdoor living spaces with its fiery charm

• Size
  P11

We currently only deliver within the island of Ireland, other countries can be quoted for by contacting [email protected] or via telephone on 06964084
 

Standard Delivery is FREE on orders over €250*

All standard deliveries will be completed within 5-7 working days via Fastway Couriers, any delay to this delivery time, the customer will be notified by One of our staff.

The in-Store delivery charge will vary compared with online, in-store delivery charge is done on a case by case basis. 

* Only mainland Ireland addresses qualify for free delivery.
 

Live Plants Delivery

Our live plants are packed with care and diligence by our staff, our horticulturists review each plant before despatch to ensure quality is maintained.
Live Plant delivery charges are not calculated on weight but on the space required per package to ensure safe delivery, so delivery charges may vary as some plants require more space than others when packed.
All live plants are despatched within 3-5 working days where possible, our couriers aim to deliver within 48 hours of despatch from our Garden Centre to allow the plant to arrive in healthy condition.
 

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