Sunday, January 8, 2012

Regarding rhizomatous begonias


A rhizome is an above ground root usually horizontal in position, that usually produces roots below and sends up shoots progressively from the upper surface.  See below. 
This is the understory of the b. 'Caribbean Queen'. New leaf and flower stalks lead the growth of the rhizomes. Notice the bare rhizome following along after stalks have fallen off of root.

Many rhizomatous begonias, such as this B "Palomar Whirlwind" have beautiful leaves making them a valuable plant in and out of bloom.

Here is a shot of the rhizome of the 'Palomar Whirlwind' begonia above. When the pot gets tight, they will climb right over the rim. It's getting pretty snug in this pot.

Some rhizomes grow straight up in the air-- until gravity slowly bends them back down
b. 'Selph's Mahogany'




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