Find begonia bonanza at Shepard Center

They’re vibrant, colorful and easy to grow with gorgeous foliage (and flowers, too). Plus they thrive in the Sacramento shade.

Who doesn’t love begonias?

During the first weekend of September, you’ll find a bevy of begonias at the Shepard Garden and Arts Center during the annual Sacramento begonia show and sale. Speaking of love is this year’s theme: “Romancing the Begonia.”

Hosted by the Joan Coulat Sacramento Branch of the American Begonia Society, this free event offers a begonia bonanza – more than 1,000 plants will be offered for sale. In addition, see gorgeous specimens on display during the chapter’s begonia show.

“Come explore a stunning display of begonias grown by our talented members, and shop from a huge variety of begonias to take home – because let’s be honest, you can never have too many begonias!” say the hosts.

In their diverse foliage and flower forms, begonias are true garden gems that thrive in Sacramento shade. This event also is an opportunity to get expert advice on how to nurture these plants in your own garden.

The club’s annual fundraiser, the sale is always a huge draw, featuring unusual and eye-catching plants. Club members go to great efforts to offer begonias not available from local sources.

In particular, find a great selection of rex begonias with foliage in a rainbow of colors and patterns. (They’re called “painted begonias” because each leaf looks like a living masterpiece.) Some even shimmer with a silvery patina.

Besides the amazing rex begonias, the sale features cane-type “Angel Wing” begonias as well as rhizomatous-type begonias and mini-begonias that prefer life in terrariums.

Show and sale hours are 10 a.m to 4 p.m Saturday, Sept. 6, and 10 a.m to 3 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 7. Admission and parking are free.

Shepard Center is located at 3330 McKinley Blvd., Sacramento, in McKinley Park.

For more information: https://www.sgaac.org/