Begonia Rex, or Rex Begonia, is a type of begonia that is known for its interesting and vibrant foliage.
If you are looking for a plant that can add some color to your garden, Begonia Rex is a great option. In this article, we will provide you with tips on how to grow and care for Begonia Rex.
Keep reading to learn more!
Plant Facts
| Botanical name | Begonia rex-cultorum |
| Common names | Rex begonia, painted leaf begonia |
| Family | Begoniaceae |
| Plant Type | Houseplant |
| Height and Width | 12-18” tall and wide |
| Origin | Northeastern India, Vietnam, southern China |
| Flower colors | None |
| Foliage color | Green, red, silver, or purple |
| Sun Exposure | Partial to full shade |
| Soil Type & pH | Well-drained, acidic soil |
| Special features | Toxic to animals, semi-tropical, great for containers, perfect for shade |
How to Grow Rex Begonias
Rex begonias are beautiful, flowering plants that make a great addition to any indoor garden. Most Rex begonias do best in bright, indirect sunlight and medium that is rich in organic matter.
When planting Rex begonias indoors, it is important to choose a location that receives plenty of light but is not in direct sunlight. These plants also prefer warm temperatures and high humidity, so a bathroom or kitchen windowsill is often a good choice.
These plants are susceptible to root rot, so it is important to not let them sit in damp soil. With proper care, Rex begonias will thrive indoors and provide a lovely addition to your home.
Propagation
Rex begonias are beautiful, lush houseplants that are relatively easy to care for. One of the best things about them is that they can be propagated relatively easily.
There are a few different methods that can be used to propagate rex begonias, but the most common is stem propagation. To do this, simply cut a 4-6 inch section from a healthy stem and remove the lower leaves.
The cutting should then be placed in a clean pot filled with moistened potting mix. It is important to keep the soil moist but not wet, and to provide bright indirect light. Within a few weeks, roots should begin to form and new growth will appear.
At this point, you can begin to water the plant more frequently and fertilize it monthly. With a little patience and care, you can produce an abundance of beautiful rex begonias.
Soil
Begonias are beautiful, unique flowers that come in a wide variety of colors and patterns. They’re also relatively easy to care for, which makes them a popular choice for both experienced gardeners and beginners alike.
One of the keys to keeping begonias healthy is to choose the right type of soil. Unlike many other plants, begonias prefer alkaline soil with a pH level of 6.5-7.5. The soil should also be well-draining to prevent root rot. In addition, begonias need plenty of moisture, so be sure to water regularly.
With the proper care, your painted leaf begonia will thrive and provide you with years of enjoyment.
Pruning
As any gardener knows, pruning is an essential part of plant care. Not only does it help to keep plants healthy and vigorous, but it can also encourage new growth and improve the overall appearance of a garden. When it comes to begonias, there are a few things to keep in mind.
First, begonias are best pruned when they are actively growing. This means that late spring or early summer is the ideal time to do it.
Second, begonias should be pruned after they have flowered. This will help to ensure that the plant has enough energy to produce new flowers.
Finally, when pruning begonias, be sure to use sharp, clean shears. This will help to prevent damage to the plant and encourage neat, tidy growth. With these tips in mind, pruning begonias is a simple and straightforward task that any gardener can do.
Repotting and Transplanting
While they are generally easy to care for, rex begonias do require some special attention when it comes time to repot or transplant them. Here are a few tips on how to successfully repot and transplant a rex begonia:
When repotting, choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the one the plant is currently in. Begonias prefer to be slightly pot-bound, so going too much larger can lead to problems with watering and drainage. It’s also important to use a well-draining potting mix that contains perlite or vermiculite to help combat root rot.
When transplanting, it’s best to wait until early spring when the plant is just beginning to actively grow. Gently loosen the roots and carefully remove the plant from its current pot. Plant it in the new location at the same depth it was previously growing, and water thoroughly. Be sure to choose a spot that receives filtered light – too much direct sunlight can scorch new leaves. With a little care, your
How to Care for Rex Begonias
Rex begonias are beautiful, exotic plants that are prized by many gardeners. While they are not the easiest plants to care for, with a little bit of effort, you can enjoy these stunning specimens in your own home. Rex begonias prefer filtered light and consistently moist soil. They will also require regular misting to maintain high humidity levels.
Here are our begonia rex care tips to follow:
Water
Rex begonias are one of the most popular houseplants because of their beautiful, variegated leaves. Though they’re relatively easy to care for, they do have some specific watering needs.
Rex begonias should be watered thoroughly, but allowed to dry out between waterings. They’re also sensitive to fluoride, so it’s best to use filtered or distilled water.
When watering rex begonias, be sure to avoid getting water on the leaves, as this can cause brown spots. Instead, water at the base of the plant, taking care not to let the root system sit in water. With a little care, your rex begonia will thrive and add a splash of color to your home.
Sunlight
Rex begonias enjoy indirect sunlight, partial shade, and full shade. They will tolerate some direct sun, but too much direct sun can scorch their leaves. If you are growing rex begonias indoors, place them near an east- or west-facing window or in full shade.
Outdoors, they will do best in a shady spot with dappled sunlight.
Temperature and Humidity
Rex begonias also prefer warm temperatures. They will not tolerate frost and should be brought indoors if temperatures fall below 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
However, they also do not like it when the air is too dry. To help maintain the proper humidity level for your rex begonia, you can mist foliage plants or set their pot on a tray of pebbles filled with water.
There are a few easy ways to maintain the right conditions for your plants. First, consider placing your plants near a window where they can get indirect sunlight. This will help to regulate the temperature and prevent the air from becoming too dry. You can even grow your plant atop a pebble tray, which will allow you to provide the right amount of humidity without causing the roots of the plant to become saturated.
You can also install a humidifier in your home to increase the humidity levels. Finally, make sure to water your plants regularly and mist the leaves with water if the air is particularly dry. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your plants stay healthy and thrive indoors.
Fertilizer
Fertilizing Rex begonias is important to ensure they thrive. These plants are native to the tropics and prefer humid conditions with filtered sunlight or complete shade.
The best way to fertilize these perennials is to use a water-soluble fertilizer that is high in phosphorus. Phosphorus promotes root growth. Fertilize every two weeks during the growing season, from spring to fall.
Be sure to dilute the fertilizer solution according to the package instructions, as too much fertilizer can burn the leaves. Apply the fertilizer solution to the soil around the plant, being careful not to get any on the leaves.
Water the plant well after fertilizing. With proper care, your Rex begonia will reward you with beautiful blooms all season long!
Pest and diseases
As any gardener knows, pests and diseases can quickly ruin a begonia rex plant. Some of the most common problems include root rot, powdery mildew, and aphids. To avoid these problems, it is important to choose a well-drained planting site and to water only when the soil is dry. In addition, regular inspection of the plants will help to catch problems early. With a little care, begonia rex plants can be healthy and vigorous.
Root Rot
Root rot is caused by excessive moisture, and it can quickly kill a plant.
Root rot is a serious problem for houseplants. The condition is caused by a variety of fungi that attack the roots, causing them to rot. This can lead to a number of problems, including wilting, yellowing leaves, and stunted growth. In severe cases, root rot can kill a plant.
There are a few things that you can do to prevent root rot from occurring in your plants. First, make sure that you plant them in well-draining soil. Second, water them regularly, but do not over-water.
Finally, if you notice any signs of root rot (e.g., brown or black roots), remove the affected roots and replant the plant in fresh soil. With proper care, you can keep your houseplants healthy and free from root rot.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a type of fungal disease that can affect a variety of different plants, including houseplants. The fungus responsible for powdery mildew thrives in warm, humid conditions, and it can spread quickly from plant to plant.
The first signs of powdery mildew are small white or grayish-white spots on the leaves or stems of the plant. These spots eventually spread and form a thick, powdery coating on the plant.
Powdery mildew can weaken the plant and make it more susceptible to other diseases. In severe cases, it can even kill the plant. There are a few things that you can do to prevent powdery mildew from attacking your houseplants.
First, make sure that your plants are getting enough air circulation. Second, water your plants at the base instead of from above to prevent water from splashing onto the leaves and spread the fungus. Finally, avoid overwatering your plants as wet leaves are more prone to powdery mildew.
If you do notice powdery mildew on your houseplants, there are a few different ways to treat it. You can use a fungicide that is specifically designed to kill powdery mildew, or you can make your own spray
Aphids
Aphids are small insects that feed on the sap of plants. They can cause begonia rex plants to become stunted and yellow.
They are most commonly found on new growth, and they feed by piercing the plant’s stem and sucking out the sap. This can weaken the plant and make it more susceptible to disease. In addition, aphids excrete a sticky substance called honeydew, which can attract other pests and promote the growth of sooty mold.
To prevent aphids from infesting your houseplants, be sure to inspect them regularly and remove any that you find. If aphids are already present, you can treat them with a soap-and-water solution or an insecticidal spray.
Common Varieties and Cultivars
Among the most popular and easily recognized of all the begonias, Begonia rex is a tropical perennial that is native to India.
Grown for its dramatic, colorful leaves, this plant comes in a wide range of colors and patterns.
Some common rex begonia varieties and cultivars include ‘Escargot’, which has tightly spiraled leaves with alternating bands of light and dark green; ‘Fireworks’, which has bright red leaves with yellow splotches; and ‘Kimono’, which has pinkish-white leaves with green veins. With proper care, Begonia rex can make a stunning addition to any indoor or outdoor garden.
Conclusion
Begonias are a fantastic addition to any home, and Rex begonias are some of the most beautiful and interesting varieties available. They’re often grown for their colorful leaves that add a touch of elegance to any setting.
Rex begonias are easy to care for and thrive in indirect sunlight, making them ideal for both indoor and outdoor gardens. They’re also relatively drought-tolerant, so you won’t have to worry about watering them too often. With their striking foliage and elegant flowers, Rex begonias are sure to add a touch of beauty to any space.
If you’re looking for a beautiful and low-maintenance plant to add to your home, look no further than the rex begonia. With just a little bit of care, this lovely plant can thrive in your garden or indoor space. We hope you will try growing a rex begonia of your own using some of these tips!
See more: Tuberous begonia care
*image by RBagusdiani/depositphotos
