Begonia They type of begonia most often used as a bedding plant is the fibrous or wax-leaf begonias. Depending on the variety, leaves are either bronze or green and always very glossy. Flowers are usually red, rose or white. The varieties with bronze leaves are more sun tolerant than the green-leaved varieties. Begonias have to have well-drained soil.
Tuberous begonias have much larger, slightly hairy leaves and large, bold flowers.
Celosia can be divided into those that have fine, feathery flowers called plumes and those that have ruffled, crested flowers called cockscombs. There are varieties that are short and used for bedding and others that are tall and used for cutting. Celosias all need full sun to do their best and prefer rich, well-drained soil. Celosia blooms are usually in strong bold colors such as red, orange and yellow. A new, unusual variety called 'Flamingo Feather' offers a more open plant with softer lavender-pink blooms.