Hardy Begonia

When first encountered, it's difficult to believe that this arching begonia is fully hardy to Zone 6a. It looks tropical, somewhat like a rex or angel wing begonia, but don't be fooled; it reliably returns year after year to provide color in the shade, all summer long. It's late to emerge, so be patient as you may not see activity until early June, or when temperatures really start to heat up—but once established it's a reliable bloomer. It prefers a little bit of sun, and will tolerate up to half a day, so the edge of a woodland or under a high-pruned shrub suits it just fine. At our research farm, it thrives in a border that receives morning sun but is shaded by a building all afternoon. Pendulous sprays of deep rosy-pink flowers add pops of color to shaded areas. Its thick, shiny, green leaves are accented with prominent red vines on the undersides. This perennial complements hostas, ferns and other shade-loving plants. Begonia grandis 'Heron's Pirouette'