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Begonia rex /ˈɹɛks/

Common name: Rex begonia · Painted-leaf begonia · King begonia

Begonia rex is a rhizomatous begonia native to the forests of northeast India and Southeast Asia. It is grown primarily for its spectacular foliage: large, asymmetrical leaves patterned in silver, burgundy, purple, and green, often with a metallic sheen. Though it produces small pinkish flowers, it is prized as a houseplant and shade-garden specimen for its leaves, which rank among the most ornamental of any plant.

Care summary

Sun Bright indirect light; avoid direct sun
Water Water when top soil dries; avoid wet leaves
Soil Light, airy, well-drained potting mix
Hardiness Zones 10–12; usually grown indoors
Mature height About 30–45 cm (1–1.5 ft)
Pet safe No — toxic to cats and dogs
Difficulty Fussy
Propagation Propagates readily from leaf cuttings or rhizome division. For leaf cuttings, lay a healthy leaf with a short petiole flat on moist mix (or wedge the petiole into it), keep it humid, and plantlets form along the cut veins in a few weeks. Division of the rhizome is quicker: cut a rhizome section with at least one growth point and pot it shallowly.

Fun facts

  • The species was introduced to Europe in 1856 from Assam, India, sparking a breeding craze.
  • Rex begonias are parents of hundreds of cultivars, forming the Rex Cultorum group.
  • A single leaf laid on moist soil can root and sprout new plantlets from its cut veins.
  • Many cultivars go semi-dormant in winter, dropping leaves and needing much less water.

Common problems

    • Let soil surface dry between waterings
    • Grow in pots with drainage holes
    • Cut away and discard mushy stems
    • Improve airflow around crowded plants
    • Avoid wetting foliage when watering
    • Apply sulfur fungicide at first sign
    • Dab insects with rubbing alcohol
    • Rinse plants under a firm spray
    • Isolate infested plants from others
    • Move plants to brighter indirect light
    • Pinch stem tips to encourage branching
    • Raise humidity around the plant
    • Keep away from heating vents