Which Indoor Begonia Plants Are Best? 8 Of The Ultimate Begonia Houseplant Varieties

Indoor begonia plants continue to gain popularity among enthusiasts and collectors. Begonias are lovely in the landscape, adding lasting color to borders and shaded beds, with some species being better suited to garden growth than others. Why not try growing indoor begonias? Especially exciting cultivars offer a wide array of sizes, colors, patterns, and textures from which to choose.

Below, we’ll discuss growing some of the best begonia varieties indoors, and their care.

Choosing Indoor Begonia Plants to Grow

Shop carefully for your begonias, choosing those known to thrive indoors. More common species, like wax or tuberous varieties, are often better left to grow outdoors. Fibrous or rhizomatous types are a much better option for containers, or when kept as a houseplant. This is due largely to their needs in relation to light, water, temperature, and their growth cycle. Indoor begonia types such as these are generally considered highly ornamental, adding impressive year-round beauty to your indoor growing space.

1. Arctic Breeze

Rhizomatous types are among the most popular indoor begonia varieties. Arctic Breeze (Begonia rex) is no exception. Its intense purple foliage takes on a unique, frosted appearance, giving leaves an interesting metallic look. These compact plants are well-suited to growth where space is limited. This includes plant stands, countertops, or even hanging baskets. Begonias of this type will require both warmth and humidity to flourish.

2. Emerald Giant

Like many begonias grown as houseplants, Emerald Giant is beloved for its attractive foliage. Large leaves please gardeners with their distinctive swirled pattern, ranging in both shade and color. Indoor plants are best positioned near an east or west-facing window, where they are able to receive bright, indirect light throughout the day. Routine feeding, in tandem with the use of a high-quality acidic potting mix, will further aid in their growth.

3. Double Silver Dot

Double Silver Dot remains among the most sought-after types of indoor begonias. True to their name, first-time growers can expect stunning green foliage, dotted with silver spots. Vividly patterned leaves draw the focus of both growers and guests with ease. Gloss and shine further enhance these short-statured plants' ability to create a lush, tropical feel, complementary to indoor spaces and easily incorporated into home design.

4. Merrymaker

Merrymaker begonias are best known for their vibrant color. Those growing the plant can expect bright, magenta-pink foliage. Deep burgundy veins run through each leaf and toothy edges add both texture and interest to containers. These are a good choice if you’re looking for especially appealing focal plants. Where conditions are ideal, indoor specimens may bud, producing spritely pink blooms.

5. Neon Splash

Those growing Neon Splash delight in the plants' unique ruffled appearance. Rhizomatous plants produce an abundance of foliage, splashed with brilliant lime-green markings. Well-suited to small containers, these diminutive plants are an ideal addition to shelves, window sills, and other decorative nooks. Clusters of attractive pink blooms are likely to persist through winter, provided plants receive ample light and consistent warmth.

6. Polka Dot

One of many Begonia maculata types, Polka Dot is sure to dazzle gardeners with its narrow, spotted foliage. As the species is regarded for their ease of care, this variety remains especially popular among novice growers, and is often gifted to would-be plant parents.

Plants will flourish where the indoor climate remains relatively cool, between 65-75 F (18-24 C). Potted specimens should be positioned safely away from vents, and protected from drafts or sudden fluctuations in temperature.

7. Purple Blush

Similar in form and foliage to other Begonia rex types, Purple Blush remains among the best indoor begonias in terms of color and dramatic visual appeal. Large leaves are patterned in attractive shades of green, pink, purple, blush, and silver. The production of modest flowers only adds to their beauty, opening sporadically throughout the year. As with other species, the cultivar will appreciate consistent moisture and humidity as a means to perform its best.

8. Red Tempest

Known best for their dramatic foliage, Red Tempest begonias make a statement. White-silver leaves unfurl to reveal a veritable landscape of purple-pink tones. Serrated leaves, edged in black, add further beauty to containers with their immense contrast. Continued feeding and warmth throughout the year will aid in this plant’s growth and the overall color development in foliage.

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