Begonia (Begonia 'Gryphon')
Discover the striking foliage of Begonia 'Gryphon', an herbaceous perennial noted for its large, palmate leaves. Ideal for shade. Zones 8-10.
Complete Plant Information
Overview
The Begonia ‘Gryphon’ is highly valued by gardeners not for its blossoms, which are rare, but for its truly magnificent foliage. This cane-like Begonia variety showcases massive, deeply lobed leaves marbled with silver streaks over a backdrop of rich green, dramatically contrasted by deep orange-red undersides and stems. Begonia ‘Gryphon’ offers architectural interest, thriving where many other flowering plants struggle—in shadier corners of the garden or indoors.
As an herbaceous perennial in warmer climates, or a spectacular specimen during summer, this plant establishes an upright, mounded habit. Mastering the care of Begonia ‘Gryphon’ focuses on humidity and soil management rather than rigorous deadheading or feeding for blooms. Its impressive size and coloration make it a perfect focal point.
Growers should recognize the distinction within the Begonia genus; while many are appreciated ornamentally, Begonia ‘Gryphon’ is sought specifically for its structural leaf form, linking it to the tropical cane-like types celebrated for their upright stature.
Fast Facts
- Plant Family: Begoniaceae
- Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
- Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 8-10
- Size at Maturity:
- Height: 1-1.5 ft
- Spread: 1-1.5 ft
- Bloom Time: Rarely flowers
- Sun Exposure: Part shade to full shade
- Water Needs: Medium
- Maintenance Level: Medium
How to Grow
Plant Begonia ‘Gryphon’ in spring after the last frost danger has passed, or purchase as a summer annual for containers. Locate your plant in an area receiving bright light, ensuring it is protected from the harsh, direct rays of the afternoon sun, which can scorch the distinctive leaves. The key to successful cultivation lies in the soil: it must be well-drained and rich in humus to prevent anaerobic conditions which this plant strongly dislikes.
Water regularly when the plant is undergoing active development in spring and summer, keeping the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. As growth slows down during winter, significantly reduce irrigation frequency. Be aware that wet soil, particularly cold wet soil, is a primary culprit for root and stem rots, a major vulnerability for this specimen.
While Begonia ‘Gryphon’ can tolerate short dry spells, consistent moisture aids foliage production. Being a cane-like variety, it adapts well to indoor cultivation, but ensure good air circulation regardless of location to mitigate fungal risks associated with high humidity.
Landscape Uses
The upright, mounded habit and massive, colorful leaves of Begonia ‘Gryphon’ make it an exceptional choice for adding vertical texture contrast in shaded areas. It functions brilliantly as a spectacular specimen plant in mixed summer bedding displays or as the dramatic thriller centerpiece in large container arrangements. Its bold scale prevents it from being lost beneath larger shrubs.
When designing shaded borders, pair Begonia ‘Gryphon’ with plants that offer complementary textures, such as fine-leafed ferns or hostas with solid green or blue coloring. This allows the silvery and orange-red accents of the Begonia foliage to take center stage. Indoors, it serves as a sophisticated, low-maintenance houseplant, perfect for dimly lit rooms where standard ornamentals fail to thrive.
Standout Features
Noteworthy Characteristics
Begonia is a genus of about 1,300 species of annuals, perennials, shrubs and climbers. Most have fleshy stems. Some produce underground tubers or rhizomes. They are grown for their showy flowers, leaves, or both. Begonias can be divided into 7 informal groups by growth habit: Cane-like, rex-cultorum, rhizomatous, semperflorens, tuberous, trailing or scandent, thick-stemmed and shrub-like. Cane-like begonias are evergreen, perennial plants primarily from Brazil. They are generally upright growing with bamboo-like stems and are grown for their interesting form as well as attractive leaves and flowers. They have semi-woody stems and fibrous roots.Genus name honors Michael Begon (1638-1710), Governor of French Canada.‘Gryphon’ is bred for its superb foliage that combines majestic beauty with strength and durability. Its upright, mounded habit produces large, palmate rich green leaves streaked in silver. The undersides of the leaves and slender stems are deep orange-red. Named after a mythical creature with the body of a lion and the head and wings of an eagle, ‘Gryphon’ is an eye-catcher.
Tolerances
- Can tolerate short periods of drought
Potential Problems
Begonia ‘Gryphon’ requires vigilance against common soft-bodied pests, primarily whitefly, thrips, mites, and mealybugs. Inspect the leaf undersides regularly, especially if kept indoors, and treat promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil applications. Prevention is critical, as pests thrive in stagnant, stressed conditions.
Fungal diseases are another major concern, particularly powdery mildew, botrytis, and stem rot. These issues are exacerbated by high humidity coupled with poor air circulation. To manage this, ensure adequate spacing between plants when bedding them out and avoid overhead watering that leaves foliage wet for extended periods.
Stem rot is directly linked to poor drainage; if the soil remains perpetually soaked, especially during cooler periods, the fleshy stems will collapse. If you notice softening at the base of the plant, reduce watering immediately and ensure the container or bed drains freely.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hardiness zones is Begonia ‘Gryphon’ suitable for?
Begonia ‘Gryphon’ is best suited for USDA Hardiness Zones 8 through 10, where it can survive year-round as an herbaceous perennial.
How large does Begonia ‘Gryphon’ grow?
This striking foliage plant typically reaches a height between 1 and 1.5 feet, with a similar spread of 1 to 1.5 feet, forming a sturdy, mounded shape.
What sun exposure does Begonia ‘Gryphon’ need?
Begonia ‘Gryphon’ thrives best in conditions ranging from part shade to full shade, needing protection from intense midday sun exposure to prevent leaf burn.
When does Begonia ‘Gryphon’ bloom?
This plant is primarily grown for its leaves and rarely flowers; when it does, the bloom time is simply listed as Rarely flowers.
Conclusion
The Begonia ‘Gryphon’ offers unparalleled visual impact in shady garden spots due to its majestic, silver-streaked palmate leaves and rich red undersides. Integrating this cane-like Begonia elevates the texture and drama of any understory planting or container scheme. Before planting outdoors, confirm your location falls within USDA Zones 8-10, and always prioritize providing well-drained, humusy soil for lasting success with your Begonia.
Companion Planting in Shade
When planning beds featuring Begonia ‘Gryphon’, consider partners whose cultural requirements match its need for consistent moisture and part shade. Good companions include large-leafed Hostas in blues or chartreuse varieties to enhance the contrast with the dark green and silver of the Begonia. Fine-textured plants like Astilbes or various shade-loving ferns will provide textural variety without competing aggressively for root space.
Avoid placing Begonia ‘Gryphon’ adjacent to drought-tolerant perennials, as the Begonia requires more consistent watering to maintain its fleshy stems and large leaves. Grouping plants with similar water needs simplifies your maintenance schedule and ensures optimal health for all inhabitants of the shaded border.
Container Growing Strategies for Begonia ‘Gryphon’
Growing Begonia ‘Gryphon’ in containers allows for easy relocation indoors before winter hits colder zones. Use a high-quality potting mix amended with compost or coir to maximize drainage and aeration; a standard mix is often too dense initially. Ensure the container has ample drainage holes, as this plant cannot tolerate sitting in standing water.
For containers, focus on a “Thriller, Filler, Spiller” arrangement where Begonia ‘Gryphon’ serves perfectly as the vertical thriller due to its upright habit. Pair it with mounding white or silver foliage fillers, like creeping Jenny or silver falls dichondra, to complement the streaks on the Begonia leaf surface. Maintain medium water levels, always checking the top inch of soil before irrigation.
