[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.

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.

In addition, some can be propagated from leaf cuttings or even sections of leaves, particularly the members of the rhizomatous and rex groups.

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.