Begonia 'Viking Explorer Red'

Begonia 'Viking Explorer Red' is a striking variety of begonia known for its vibrant red flowers and bronze foliage. This plant is part of the hybrid Begonia x benariensis series, bred for robust growth, heat tolerance, and striking floral displays. The 'Viking Explorer' series is particularly known for its trailing habit, making it ideal for hanging baskets and containers.

Plant Characteristics:

- Flower Color: Bright red

- Foliage: Bronze or dark green leaves

- Growth Habit: Trailing or mounding

Native Range:

The parent species of Begonia x benariensis, such as Begonia cucullata, are native to South America, particularly Brazil and Argentina. However, 'Viking Explorer Red' is a hybrid developed for ornamental use and does not have a natural habitat.

USDA Hardiness Zones:  

- Grows best in zones 9-11. In cooler zones, it is typically grown as an annual or a houseplant.

Height and Width:

- Height: 12-18 Inches (30-45 cm)

- Width: 18-24 Inches (45-60 cm)

Light Requirements:

- Thrives in partial shade to full sun. In hot climates, providing some afternoon shade can help prevent leaf scorching and maintain vibrant foliage.

Soil Requirements:

- Prefers well-draining, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0).

- Amending the soil with organic matter like compost can enhance drainage and nutrient content.

Watering:

- Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Begonias are susceptible to root rot if overwatered.

- Water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases.

Fertilization:

- Feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the growing season to encourage healthy growth and flowering.

Temperature and Humidity:

- Ideal temperatures range between 60-75°F (15-24°C).

- Prefers high humidity but can tolerate moderate levels. In dry indoor environments, increasing humidity with a pebble tray or misting can be beneficial.

Pruning and Maintenance:

- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming.

- Prune leggy growth to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth.

 Uses

- Hanging Baskets: Ideal for its trailing growth habit, which allows it to cascade over the edges of baskets and containers.

- Containers: Great for adding color and texture to patios, balconies, and decks.

- Border Planting: Can be used as a border plant in garden beds, especially in areas with partial shade.

By providing the right growing conditions and care, Begonia 'Viking Explorer Red' can be a stunning addition to your garden or container displays, offering vibrant color throughout the growing season.

---SHIPPING NOTICE PLEASE READ BEFORE PURCHASING LIVE PLANTS!---

 We WILL NOT refund the purchase of or the shipping cost of live plants purchased with the intent to be shipped to states that do not authorize importing live plants or to states with restrictions! Purchases to these states will be held for 30 days for pick-up at our Slidell, Louisiana store and the shipping cost associated with these purchases will be held for the care of the plant while waiting to be picked up. All sales are final. If the plant(s) purchased are not picked up within 30 days from the date of order, these items will be returned to our sales inventory and you WILL NOT be refunded. Thank you for understanding these policies.

Due to regulations, certain states have restrictions on importing plants. Please review the list below to ensure you're not attempting to order any restricted plants in your area.

**Important Note:** We do not ship any plants outside the U.S.

State-Specific Restrictions - We ARE NOT responsible for any plant(s) that are not listed in these restrictions. Purchaser bears all responsibility for making sure the plant(s) they desire to purchase are not banned from being imported to the shipping state:

Arizona: Juglans spp.  

California: Castanea spp., Juglans spp., Pinus spp., Quercus spp.  

Colorado: Some counties restrict Prunus spp. Please verify your local county regulations.  

Florida: Castanea spp., Cornus spp., Quercus spp., Cornus mas 

Georgia: Vaccinium spp.

Hawaii: Pinus spp. 

Idaho: Humulus lupulus, Mentha spp., Vitis spp.

Indiana: Fragraria spp., Rosa spp. 

Kansas: Juglans spp.

Michigan: Abies spp., Vaccinium spp.

Montana: Pinus spp.

Nevada: Allium spp.

Mentha spp. 

New Jersey: Rosa spp.  

New York: Vitis spp.  

Oregon: Allium spp., Castanea spp., Corylus spp., Humulus lupulus, Quercus spp., Sambucus nigra, Ulmus spp., Vaccinium spp., Vitis spp.

Texas: Juglans spp. 

Washington: Allium spp., Castanea spp., Corylus spp., Humulus lupulus, Vaccinium spp., Vitis spp.  

Wisconsin: Abies spp., Pinus spp., Picea spp., Mentha spp. 

Additionally, we cannot ship plants in soil medium to the following states: AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, HI, ID, KS, MS, MT, ND, NM, NV, OK, OR, SD, TX, UT, WA.