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Begonia rex image • Photo: Author 阿橋 HQ• CC BY-SA 2.0
Begonia rex is a striking ornamental plant known for its dramatic foliage featuring dark leaves with prominent silvery grey bands. The plant's textured, asymmetrical leaves often display metallic hues and intricate patterns ranging from spirals to splotches. As a rhizomatous begonia, it grows from thick underground stems and typically reaches 12-24 inches in height. Its popularity stems from being a parent to over 500 cultivars through hybridization, resulting in diverse leaf shapes and color combinations including purple, pink, red, and silver variations.
Plant Care Overview
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Care Guide
Essential requirements for your Begonia rex
Light Requirements
Bright, indirect light (1,500-2,200 foot-candles)
Light conditions can affect leaf color and growth rate. Adjust placement as needed based on your plant's response.
Watering Schedule
Humidity Needs
high humidity
Always check soil moisture before watering. Adjust frequency based on your home's conditions.
Temperature Range
60-75°F (15-24°C)
Native Climate
Native to Eastern Himalayas (Arunachal Pradesh) to southeast China
Keep away from drafts, heaters, and air conditioners which can stress your plant.
Soil Type
Well-draining, porous potting mix with organic matter
Fertilizer
Balanced houseplant fertilizer during growing season
Consider repotting every 1-2 years to refresh soil nutrients and accommodate growth.
Propagation
Methods to grow more Begonia rex plants
Leaf cuttings or rhizome division
Plant Info
Characteristics and background information
Eastern Himalayas (Arunachal Pradesh) to southeast China
Perennial
Symptoms: Vomiting, salivation. Kidney failure possible in grazing animals with large ingestion. Tubers are most dangerous.
Toxic parts: All parts, especially underground tubers and roots. Contains soluble calcium oxalates.
Indoor Blooming
This plant can produce flowers indoors when given proper care.
Bloom Season
Summer
Flower Description
Small pink or white flowers with yellow centers, often overshadowed by showy foliage
Fun Fact
Begonia rex is responsible for creating the entire Rex Cultorum Group of houseplants through hybridization with at least 9 other begonia species.
Troubleshooting
Solutions for typical issues with your Begonia rex
Brown, crispy edges or bleached spots on foliage
White, powdery coating on leaves
Yellowing leaves, wilting, and mushy stems
Varieties
Different varieties of Begonia rex
Cultivar with distinctive spiral-patterned leaves
Dramatic foliage cultivar
Classic variegated cultivar
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Care Guides
Detailed guides for caring for your Begonia rex
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Nurseries Near You
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