TheNaturePlanet

In spring, it's easy to get confused between the weeping begonia and the cherry blossom when they are in bloom. Now, let's talk about their differences from several aspects.

In terms of botanical classification, the weeping begonia belongs to the Malus genus of the Rosaceae family and is a unique plant in China. The cherry blossom belongs to the Rosaceae family, and in a broad sense, it belongs to the Prunus genus, while in a narrow sense, it belongs to the Cerasus genus. Although they are both in the Rosaceae family, their subdivisions are different.

In terms of flower shape, the petals of the weeping begonia are complete, round and elegant, usually with more than five petals, and the color is mostly pink. The petals of the cherry blossom have small notches at the front, are oval and egg-shaped, and the flower color is mostly white or pink.

The flower stalks are also different. The flower stalks of the weeping begonia are slender and long, and their color is purplish red. They grow upward during the bud stage and droop obviously after blooming. The flower stalks of the cherry blossom are short and straight, mostly green in color, although the flower clusters often face downward.

There are also differences in the leaves. The leaves of the weeping begonia are small and smooth, in the shape of an oval or an ellipse, with a rounded front end. The surface is glossy and has a purple halo. The midrib has short pubescence, and the rest of the part is hairless. The leaves of the cherry blossom are wider, with clear leaf veins and a pointed front end. The leaves of the cherry blossom are oval and egg-shaped or obovate, with sharp double serrations on the edge. The upper surface is dark green and hairless, and the lower surface is light green, with sparse pubescence along the veins.

In terms of other characteristics, the weeping begonia blooms and grows leaves simultaneously, and its tree shape is relatively short and the crown spreads out. The cherry blossom usually blooms first and then grows leaves. When it blooms, the whole tree is full of flowers, and when the leaves come out, they are set off by the green leaves. The tree shape is taller and the trunk is relatively straight.

In terms of maintenance and appreciation, the weeping begonia likes a sunny environment but can also tolerate semi-shade. It has no strict requirements for the soil but is afraid of waterlogging. Its flowering period is from March to April, making it a good choice for enjoying flowers in spring. The cherry blossom also likes a sunny environment but can tolerate a certain degree of cold. It has no strict requirements for the soil but is afraid of saline-alkali soil. Its flowering period is relatively short, but the flowers are dense, and the ornamental effect is excellent.

The weeping begonia and the cherry blossom each have their own unique beauty. Through the comparison of the above aspects, you can easily distinguish them the next time you see them.