Rex Begonia

Plant Identification

Common Names: Rex Begonia, Painted-leaf Begonia

Scientific Name: Begonia rex

Begonia rex, known as the Painted-leaf Begonia, is treasured for its spectacularly colorful and uniquely patterned foliage. Its leaves can showcase a variety of colors, including pink, red, purple, silver, and green, making it a popular decorative plant.

Quick Care Guide

Light: Begonia rex thrives in bright, indirect light but can also adapt to lower light conditions for limited periods. Direct sunlight should be avoided, as it can cause leaf scorching.

Water: Ensure your Begonia rex is watered when the top inch of the soil feels dry. Maintain evenly moist soil, but be cautious of overwatering, as the plant's roots are sensitive and prone to rot.

Difficulty: moderate

Growth & Appearance

Size: Typically grows to about 12-24 inches in height and spreads up to 18 inches wide.

Leaves: Features large, asymmetrical leaves with dramatic colors and patterns, often showcasing a blend of hues like silver, red, and purple.

Common Issues & Solutions

Overwatering: Look for wilting leaves or root rot as signs of overwatering. Allow the soil to dry out before the next watering cycle.

Underwatering: Leaf edges may become crispy and brown with underwatering. Increase watering frequency without saturating the soil.

Pests: Watch out for spider mites and thrips. Regularly clean leaves with water and treat infestations with insecticidal soap if required.

Toxicity & Safety

Pets: Toxic to cats, dogs, and other pets. Can cause drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.

Humans: Moderately toxic if ingested, causing gastrointestinal irritation.

Propagation

Propagate using leaf cuttings. Cut a mature leaf into segments with a vein in each piece and place them on moist soil with slight cover.

Companion Plants

Peace Lily: Shares similar light preferences and humidity requirements., Ferns: Ferns create a lush, tropical look and thrive in the same humid conditions as Begonia rex.