Reviewed by Debra LaGattuta Begonias bring vibrant color to shaded porches, making them ideal for long-lasting displays. In ...

It's been a good growing year. However, another good begonia that is absent from many local gardens is the hardy Begonia grandis. And yes, it is very winter hardy as it grows as far north as New York.

But you’ve already figured out that even though begonias are perennials, they aren’t winter hardy here and you have to dig them up and store them over the winter.

Begonia grandis is hardy to Zone 6 (think St. Louis) and is known as “hardy begonia.” B. boliviensis “Santa Cruz Sunset” is a tender perennial that is hardy in USDA Zones 7b–10.

For gardeners looking for a more uncommon plant, there are some "Hardy begonia species". One is the best is Begonia grandis, which can survive temperatures below 0°F.

Even if this awesome begonia hasn't survived, I recommend it. We only get a winter like we just experienced every 50 years or so, so don't let it make you too conservative.

Begonia grandis, the only winter-hardy begonia species, is a favorite companion for hostas and ferns. Resembling an angel wing, though a tuberous type, grandis comes up in late April or early May.

Begonia grandis, both the pink and the white forms, is carried by Montrose Nursery, Box 957, Hillsborough, N.C. 27278 (catalogue, $1.50) and by Woodlanders, 1128 Colleton Avenue, Aiken, S.C. 29801 ...

• Plant. Believe it or not, this is the perfect time to get some seeds and plants in the ground. Sow winter-hardy crops like kale, mustard, lettuce, parsley, chives, Swiss chard and Chinese cabbage.