American Begonia Society

Herbert P. Dyckman of Long Beach, California started the California Begonia Society with a group of enthusiasts. By 1934, the organization had garnered national interest and changed its name to the American Begonia Society. Today, the ABS has 54 regional membership branches in the United States and hundreds of at-large members worldwide.

Although there are large pockets of members on the east and west coasts of the United States, the American Begonia Society counts half of its members as not affiliated with any branch. The organization keeps members apprised of new cultivars, and shares growing tips through The Begonian, regional meetings, and horticultural correspondents.

Conservation is an important aspect of begonia appreciation, and the society furthers this effort through its support of species banks, seed swaps, adopt-a-species projects, and collecting trips. Members can choose between annual, sustaining, benefactor, and life membership levels.