The Florist and Horticultural Journal, Vol. II. No. 7, July, 1853

An enthusiastic 1853 journal article introduces the striking Begonia xanthina, a yellow‑flowered marvel that arrived from the Bhutan Himalayas via Mr. Booth’s nephew. The piece details its botanical features—large, slightly reddish leaves, bright yellow blossoms tinged with red, and a compact rhizome—offering a vivid picture of a plant that, until now, has been known only in white or red varieties. Readers learn that the specimen first bloomed in July 1852 at Mr. Nuttall’s collection in England and that its arrival promises a fresh splash of colour for gardens far beyond its native Asian tropics.

Beyond the plant itself, the article reflects on America’s horticultural ambitions, urging growers to move beyond merely copying English styles. It argues for a confident, independent approach, describing how Begonias can thrive in greenhouses or shaded outdoor spots with modest care. The tone is both instructive and hopeful, inviting amateur and commercial growers alike to welcome this exotic beauty into their gardens.