- Begonia Rex, is a stunning and exotic houseplant known for its large, velvety leaves with bold patterns and vibrant colors. Begonias are renowned for their striking, variegated leaves, which resemble natural canvases painted with shades of green, red, silver, and even regal purple. This ornamental and artistic foliage makes Begonia Rex one of the most popular colorful houseplants.
It is a member of the Begoniaceae family, which includes over 1,800 species of plants. Begonia Rex is native to the rainforests of Southeast Asia, where it grows in the shade of taller trees and shrubs.
The flowers of the Begonia Rex are typically small and appear on long, slender stems. They can vary in color but are often pink or white. These flowers are considered secondary to the striking foliage and are not as showy as those of some other begonia species.
In regions with mild, temperate climates, Begonia Rex may be grown outdoors as long as it is provided with the right conditions, including filtered sunlight, well-draining soil, and protection from extreme temperatures.
- Begonias is versatile when it comes to lighting, adapting well to moderate to bright, indirect sunlight. Position them in a well-lit spot that avoids harsh direct sunlight, allowing their variegated leaves to shine.
Consistently maintaining moist but not waterlogged soil is key to their health. Water your Begonia when the top inch of soil feels dry, and adjust watering frequency during the winter months when growth slows.
Ensure you give this plant a high-quality, well-draining potting mix designed for Begonias or tropical houseplants. Adding some perlite to the mix enhances aeration and drainage and promotes robust root growth.
Begonias thrive in moderate temperatures between 60°F and 70°F. These plants do not like extreme heat exceeding 85°F or chilling cold below 50°F. They flourish in environments with humidity levels around 50% or higher.
To encourage their vibrant foliage, provide monthly nourishment with diluted houseplant fertilizer during their active growing season in spring and summer.
Begonia Rex contains calcium oxalate and can be toxic if ingested. Keep these plants out of reach of pets and children.
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USDA Zone 10-11
USDA Zone 9b: to -3.8 °C (25 °F)
USDA Zone 10a: to -1.1 °C (30 °F)
USDA Zone 10b: to 1.7 °C (35 °F)
USDA Zone 11: above 4.5 °C (40 °F)