Begonia

Begonia rexAlso known as: Rex Begonia, King Begonia, Painted-Leaf Begonia

The Rex Begonia is a stunning foliage plant grown for its dramatic, asymmetrical leaves in swirling patterns of silver, pink, red, purple, and green. Native to northeastern India, it's often called the 'King of Begonias' for its spectacular leaf colors and textures. Grows 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) tall.

Moderate Care

Medium Light

Perennial

Quick Care Summary

Light
Medium Light

Temperature Range
60-75°F (16-24°C)

Ideal Temp
68°F (20°C)

Toxic to Pets

This plant is toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. Keep it out of reach of pets, or consider pet-safe alternatives. Symptoms of ingestion may include drooling, vomiting, or difficulty swallowing.

Seasonal Care Schedule

Adjust your care routine based on the season for optimal plant health.

Watering Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Every 7-10 days, when top inch (2.5 cm) of soil is dry
Summer	Every 5-7 days, keep soil evenly moist
Fall	Every 10-14 days
Winter	Every 14-21 days, reduce significantly

Avoid wetting leaves - causes disease. Water at soil level. Prefers slightly moist but not soggy soil.

Misting Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Mist around plant, not on leaves
Summer	Use humidifier or pebble tray
Fall	Maintain humidity without wetting leaves
Winter	Maintain humidity - avoid leaf misting

Needs humidity but wet leaves cause powdery mildew. Use a humidifier instead.

Fertilizing Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Every 2 weeks with balanced liquid fertilizer
Summer	Every 2 weeks at half-strength
Fall	Monthly
Winter	No fertilizing - plant is semi-dormant

Light feeder. Avoid fertilizer on leaves.

Pruning

Frequency: As needed to shape

Best Season: Spring

Remove leggy stems to encourage bushier growth. Remove any flowers to direct energy to foliage.

Repotting

Frequency: Every 1-2 years

Best Season: Spring

Use well-draining, peat-based mix. Shallow pots work well - shallow root system. Handle rhizomes gently.

Flowering

Season
May produce small flowers

Color
Pink or white, small

Grown for foliage - flowers are insignificant and often removed to promote leaf growth.

Propagation Methods

Leaf cuttings - cut veins and lay on moist soil
Stem cuttings
Division of rhizomes

Common Problems

Powdery mildew: Water on leaves or poor air circulation
Leggy growth: Insufficient light
Brown leaf edges: Low humidity or inconsistent watering
Leaf drop: Cold temperatures or overwatering

Pro Tips

Good air circulation prevents disease
Never mist directly on leaves
Pinch growing tips for bushier plants
May go semi-dormant in winter - reduce care

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