[1][2] The species are terrestrial (sometimes epiphytic) herbs or undershrubs, and occur in subtropical and tropical moist climates, in South and Central America, Africa, and southern Asia.

The plants vary in size from less than a foot to the recently discovered Begonia giganticaulis which can exceed twelve feet (3.6 meters) in height.

Most are forest understory plants and require bright shade; few will tolerate full sun, especially in warmer climates.

In general, begonias require a well-drained growing medium that is neither constantly wet nor allowed to dry out completely.

Wax begonias are very attractive, they adapt well when brought inside the house for overwintering and can live up to 4-5 years.

Because of their sometimes showy flowers of white, pink, scarlet, or yellow color and often attractively marked leaves, many species and innumerable hybrids and cultivars are cultivated.

This is safe in small amounts but potentially toxic in large quantities due to the prevalence of oxalic acid in the tissues.