[3][4] One of the first hybrids produced was B. x sedenii in 1870, a cross between B. boliviensis, collected by botanist Richard Pearce and a species from the Andes.

[5][6] Another species from Peru, B. davisii (named after Walter Davis), was also used in early breeding.

However, too much shade will result in compensatory growth of foliage at the expense of flowers.

Plant a Begonia in a pot with equal parts perlite and coarse sand.

Remember that sand has an excellent soil structure as it consists of tiny spaces where air, water and nutrients can move freely.