What is the Difference Between Begonia and Coleus

Begonia and Coleus are popular as ornamental plants. Both plants are native to tropical or subtropical regions and do well in warm climates. The most unique feature of both plants is their colorful and vibrant leaves.

What is the difference between Begonia and Coleus? Begonia leaves tend to be asymmetrical, while Coleus leaves tend to be symmetrical.

Key Areas Covered

1. What is Begonia 
     – Definition, Features
2. What is Coleus
     – Definition, Features
3. Similarities Between Begonia and Coleus
     – Outline of Common Features
4. Difference Between Begonia and Coleus
     – Comparison of Key Differences
5. FAQ: Begonia and Coleus
     – Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

Key Terms

Ornamental Plant, Begonia, Coleus

What is Begonia

Begonia is a genus of perennial flowering plants that belong to the family Begoniaceae. This genus has over 2,000 different plant species and is one of the biggest genera of flowering plants. Begonia plants are native to moist subtropical and tropical climates. However, some species are commonly grown inside in cooler climates as ornamental houseplants.

Begonias are monoecious. This means unisexual male and female flowers grow separately on the same plant. Male flowers have many stamens, while female flowers have large inferior ovaries and 2 to 4 branched or twisted stigmas. The fruit in most plants is a winged capsule with many tiny seeds. Begonia leaves are generally large with marks or are variegated. These leaves are often asymmetric (their right and left sides are different sizes).

There are various types of begonia plants. For example, ax begonias and angel-wing begonias are usually grown as indoor houseplants or outdoor annuals. They grow from a clump of roots. Meanwhile, rhizomatous and rex begonias are two varieties popular for their ornamental foliage. They have fleshy, creeping roots. Except for tuberous begonias, many begonias grow and flower year-round. Tuberous begonias usually have a dormant period.

Since begonias are from tropical regions, they need warm temperatures. Most grow as forest understory plants and need bright shade. Only a few varieties tolerate full sun, especially in warmer climates. These plants also need a well-drained growing medium. The soil should not be constantly wet or dried out completely.

What is Coleus

Coleus is a plant that belongs to the mint family. Although this plant is native to the tropics of Asia, it grows well in many environments. Coleus plants are mainly grown as ornamental plants. Coleus scutellarioides is especially popular as a garden plant because of its brightly colored foliage.

In fact, coleus plants are mainly grown for their foliage. They’re not known for flowers. Leaves of the coleus family have various shapes, sizes, and colors. Some even combine shades of green, yellow, red, pink, rust, and maroon. This plant generally has symmetrical, opposite leaves and square stems. The size of the plants can also vary. Some may reach only 1 foot tall, while some may be taller, around 3 feet. One special feature about this plant is that you can notice flower spikes appearing in the late summer.

Coleus plants require soil with good drainage. Excessive watering and poorly drained soil can damage the plant. These plants can also thrive in various light conditions. They are tolerant to anything from indirect light to full sun.

Similarities Between Begonia and Coleus

1. Both are popular as decorative plants in gardens and indoor settings.
2. They have colorful and attractive leaves.
3. These plants are native to tropical or subtropical regions.
4. Both prefer moist but well-drained soil.
5. They can be grown in pots, containers, and hanging baskets.

Difference Between Begonia and Coleus

Definition

• Begonia is a species of perennial flowering plant in the family Begoniaceae, while Coleus is a species of flowering plant in the family Lamiaceae.

Leaves

• Begonia leaves are asymmetrical, while Coleus leaves are symmetrical.

Flowers

• Begonia flowers are showy, colorful, and often have unique shapes, whereas Coleus flowers are small and inconspicuous.

Growth Habit

• Begonia can be bushy, trailing, or upright, while Coleus typically grows upright or sprawling.

FAQ: Begonia vs Coleus

1. Can begonia and coleus be planted together?

Yes, begonia and coleus can be planted together. Both thrive in similar conditions, like partial shade and moist soil. Their different colors and textures complement each other and make a beautiful combination.

2. What are the disadvantages of begonias?

Begonias require regular watering, proper drainage, and consistent care to thrive. They can rot in wet soil. Moreover, too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, but too little light can hinder growth.

3. Do begonias like sun or shade?

Some varieties of begonias can handle full sun better than others. But most varieties thrive in shade. Wax begonias and ‘Dragon Wing’ begonias are the varieties that can handle the most sunlight.

4. Do begonias need a lot of water?

Begonias prefer soil that is moist but not too wet. The key is to find a balance in watering. A good rule is to water them every two to four days. During hot, dry weather, you’ll need to water more often, while cooler air will help the soil stay moist longer.

Reference:

1. “Begonia.” Wikipedia. Wikipedia Foundation.

2. “Coleus.” Home & Garden Information Center. Clemson University.

Image Courtesy:

1. “Red Kiss Rex Begonia Rex Begonia Begonia” (CC0) via NeedPix

2. “A close up of a potted plant with red and green leaves. Coleus foliage maroon.” (CC0) via Picryl