Any of about 1,000 species (genus Begonia ) of mostly succulent , tropical or subtropical plants, many with colourful flowers or leaves and used as potted plants indoors or as garden plants.
Begonias come in a bewildering array of cultivated varieties. The wax begonia ( B. semperflorens ) is the most popular for use as a summer bedding plant ; angelwing begonias are characterized by their tall stems; hairy begonias have feltlike leaves. Most begonias are tender and intolerant of dry conditions; they require protection from strong sunlight.