Yukon Frost Begonia

Yukon Frost Begonia (Begonia 'Yukon Frost') is a bushy foliage plant, about 45cm high and wide, with large heart shaped leaves that look dusted with frost. New leaves are grey green with white freckling, maroon underneath, and mature leaves turn almost entirely silver white. It loves warmth and humidity, and suits the shade indoors and out.

Why you'll love it

• A frosted look. White freckles spread across grey green leaves as they age, until mature leaves are almost entirely silver white.
• Maroon undersides. The backs of the leaves are maroon, which shows when the foliage moves or hangs over the edge of a basket.
• Compact and robust. Beleaf begonias are bred to be bushy, healthy and low maintenance, and they grow faster than traditional rex begonias.
• Lifts shade. The pale leaves brighten shaded spots where plain green would disappear.
• Bold, textured leaves. Large heart shapes with texture give strong form in a container or bed.

Where it works best

Indoors. A warm room with bright filtered light suits it. Begonias are toxic to cats and dogs, so keep it out of reach of pets.

Patio pots and baskets. From spring to autumn it grows well in a sheltered patio container or hanging basket, and comes inside for the cold.

Shaded tropical gardens. Plant 40cm apart as underplanting in shaded or semi shaded beds where frost never visits.

Growing Yukon Frost Begonia in Australia

Position and climate. Shade or semi shade with filtered light or indirect sun. Warm, humid air suits it, and a light mist helps in a dry room. Outdoors it belongs in tropical and subtropical gardens, and frost will kill it.

Soil. A free draining, organic rich potting mix, or humus rich, well drained soil in a shaded bed.

Water and feed. Water lightly but regularly for the first 12 weeks or until established, and avoid waterlogging. Feed with a liquid fertiliser at half strength every 8 weeks, no more often.

Pruning. Pruning is limited to removing old leaves. If foliage dies back in the cool months, stop feeding, reduce watering, and wait for new leaves. Repot in spring only if the roots fill the pot.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Yukon Frost Begonia as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly. It arrives small, with the frosting still light, and the white spreads as the plant grows. Pot it or plant it into shade soon after delivery, and keep it clear of frost and cold draughts.

Our grower raises the tube stock and does not always have plants ready. If the tube reads sold out, use the notify button on this page and we will email you the day it is available again.

Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• Shop all indoor plants
• Variegated plants
• Plants for pots
• Beginner indoor plant tips

Common questions

Why are my new leaves less white?

New leaves carry only a light dusting of white. The frosting builds as the leaves mature, until they are nearly silver white.

Can it live outside?

Yes, in a shaded, frost free garden, or on a sheltered patio from spring to autumn. Frost will damage it.

Is it toxic to cats and dogs?

Yes. Begonias are toxic if chewed, so keep the plant where pets cannot reach it.