Double begonia tubers

Double begonias produce densely layered flowers that can occupy almost as much visual space as the foliage beneath them. Their overlapping petals form rounded blooms in white, yellow, orange, pink, red and softer intermediate shades, giving these tuberous begonias a particularly full character in pots, containers and sheltered borders. Unlike trailing forms, most classic double begonias have an upright, compact habit, so their flowers sit clearly above or among the leaves rather than spilling over the edge.

Start double begonia tubers under cover in spring if you want to give them time to establish before summer, then move them outside once frost is no longer a risk. They appreciate bright conditions away from strong midday sun, fertile compost or soil and reliable moisture without waterlogging. Containers suit them especially well because moisture and drainage can be managed closely.

Once flowering begins, the succession can continue through summer and into autumn. Remove faded blooms, keep container-grown plants watered and feed during active growth to support further buds. Their compact habit means several colours can be grouped together without needing much ground space, while a single variety repeated through several pots creates a calmer, more considered display. In the UK, tuberous double begonias are tender, so keep the tubers frost free over winter if you intend to grow them again.