Begonia ‘Sophie Cecile’ is a hybrid Angel Wing Begonia from the Begoniaceae family of plants. It was cultivated by Belva Nelson Kusler, an American hybridizer in 1961. The parentage includes Begonia sceptrum x ‘Lenore Olivier’ and Begonia acontifolia.
This is an evergreen perennial, and it is a cane-stem, Superba variety. It grows tall and upright. Begonia ‘Sophie Cecile’ grows to about 4ft or 1.2m tall. The leaves are long, narrow, and palmately lobed, with up to 9 lobes, and they are green with silvery splotches and reddish in the back.
The flowers grow in hanging clusters and are usually salmon-pink in color and fragrant. The ovaries are waxy white. Begonia ‘Sophie Cecile’ flowers from late spring into autumn, and in the right climate all year.
How to grow Begonia ‘Sophie Cecile’:
Light: Begonia ‘Sophie Cecile’ can be grown in both sun and partial shade, but it generally prefers filtered sunlight rather than direct sun. If planting outdoors, consider providing it with some protection from the intense afternoon sun, especially in hotter climates. If growing indoors, place the plant near a window where it can receive bright, indirect light.
Soil: This begonia thrives in rich, fertile soil that is moist but well-drained. Use a high-quality potting mix that provides good drainage. The soil pH should be neutral to slightly acidic. Adding organic matter, such as compost or peat moss, can help improve the soil’s fertility, moisture retention, and drainage.
Watering: Begonia ‘Sophie Cecile’ prefers consistent moisture, so keep the soil evenly moist but avoid waterlogging. Water thoroughly when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch. It is important to prevent the soil from drying out completely, as begonias are not tolerant of drought. Be cautious not to overwater, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot.
Attracting Bees and Butterflies: Begonia ‘Sophie Cecile’ has attractive flowers that can attract bees and butterflies to your garden. These pollinators help with the plant’s reproduction and contribute to a healthy ecosystem.
Planting Options: Begonia ‘Sophie Cecile’ can be planted outdoors in garden beds, borders, or containers. It also makes a beautiful houseplant, adding color and vibrancy to indoor spaces. When growing in containers, ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogged roots.
Propagation: You can propagate Begonia ‘Sophie Cecile’ through stem cuttings or division. Take stem cuttings from healthy plants, remove lower leaves, and plant them in a well-draining rooting medium. Division can be done when the plant has grown larger, and you can separate it into smaller sections, each with its own roots.
Pinching and Pruning: To encourage bushier growth, pinch the tips of the plant regularly. This will help promote branching and a fuller appearance. Additionally, you can prune the plant to shape it or remove excessive growth. Pruning can be done throughout the growing season as needed.
Pests and Diseases: Begonia ‘Sophie Cecile’ is generally pest-free. However, keep an eye out for powdery mildew, a fungal disease that can affect begonias. Ensure good air circulation around the plant, avoid overhead watering, and remove any affected foliage promptly to prevent the spread of the disease.
By following these care instructions, you can cultivate and maintain a healthy Begonia ‘Sophie Cecile’ plant, enjoying its beautiful flowers and foliage.
Also, you may enjoy reading about Begonia ‘Dragon Wing® Red’
