Anthurium

What I love about 'Gryphon' begonia is its big, hand-shaped, rich green leaves splashed with silver. Flip those bold leaves over and you'll see gorgeous deep orange-red undersides and stems — so eye-catching! This versatile beauty thrives on its own or in mixed containers outside in summer, then makes an incredible foliage houseplant when it cools down. Honestly, 'Gryphon' begonia is surprisingly drought tolerant and way easier to grow than rex begonias, yet the leaves are just as jaw-dropping.

Common name:'Gryphon' begonia

Botanical name:Begoniaxhybrida'Gryphon'

Exposure:Part sun to shade

Flowers: In my experience, 'Gryphon' begonia rarely blooms — and when it does, the flowers are small and white to blush. But honestly, you're growing this one for those incredible leaves.

Foliage: Large, maple-shaped dark green leaves with striking silver streaking, all sitting atop those gorgeous red-orange stems.

Size and habit: I love how 'Gryphon' begonia forms this lush, mounded shape from its big, overlapping leaves. It usually grows just over a foot tall and a bit wider — though I've found that in hot, humid conditions it can push to two feet or so.

How to grow 'Gryphon' begonia: These are such low-maintenance beauties — just give them well-drained, fertile soil and part sun or shade. Trust me, full sun will burn and crisp those gorgeous leaves. What surprises most people is how drought tolerant 'Gryphon' begonias are — I only water when the top inch or two of soil is dry. Always err on the side of less water to avoid rot. 'Gryphon' begonia won't handle frost at all, so bring it inside when nights drop into the low 40s (F). And since shorter days and cooler temps slow growth, I cut back on watering in winter.

Images courtesy of Ball Horticultural Company