begonia

[bih-gohn-yuh, -goh-nee-uh]

noun

1. any tropical plant belonging to the genus Begonia, including species cultivated for the handsome, succulent leaves and waxy flowers.

begonia

/ bɪˈɡəʊnjə /

noun

1. any plant of the genus Begonia , of warm and tropical regions, widely cultivated for their ornamental leaves and waxy flowers: family Begoniaceae

Word History and Origins

Origin of begonia¹

< New Latin (Linnaeus), named after Michel Bégon (1638–1710), French patron of science; -ia

Word History and Origins

Origin of begonia¹

C18: New Latin, named after Michel Bégon (1638–1710), French patron of science

Example Sentences

Grandmother’s Garden Art: Any work that would be just at home nestled into a patch of begonias as it would in a prominent public place.

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My bouquet was of three waxy begonias, pink to match my dress, which is right for my coloring.

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If you’re ready for a break from the usual begonias and impatiens, try a few of these flamboyant annuals and tender perennials: ● Petunia integrifolia: A cascading petunia with little violet flowers.

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Department of Agriculture figures show that wholesale revenue for the flowers last year topped $50.6 million, putting them just behind begonias and pansies.

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Surely I could find some monsteras, begonias and birds of paradise in sunny California.

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