Upcoming Events: Tissue Culture Workshop August 29 @ 11 am / Macramé Air Plant Holder Class Sunday Sept. 13th @ 3 pm / Moss Art Thursday Sept. 24th @ 6pm / Moss Art Thursday Oct. 1st @ 6 pm
Rex Begonia is a stunning tropical houseplant grown primarily for its bold, colorful foliage rather than its flowers. Its dramatic leaves come in an incredible range of colors and patterns, including shades of silver, green, burgundy, purple, pink, black, and red, often with metallic highlights and intricate spirals or veining. With hundreds of unique cultivars available, Rex Begonias make eye-catching additions to desks, shelves, plant stands, and bright indoor spaces. (Plant Toolbox)
The proper botanical name is Begonia rex-cultorum Group, often shortened to Rex Begonia. This group includes Begonia rex and the many hybrids developed from it over the past century. They are prized almost exclusively for their spectacular foliage, while their small pink or white flowers are considered a secondary feature. (Home & Garden Education Center)
Rex Begonia does best in bright, indirect light. Plenty of filtered light helps maintain vibrant leaf color and bold patterns. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the foliage, while too little light may cause the colors to fade and growth to become leggy. (Plant Toolbox)
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, allowing excess water to drain away. Rex Begonias prefer evenly moist soil but are very sensitive to overwatering. Avoid allowing the soil to remain soggy, and try not to wet the leaves, as excessive moisture on the foliage can encourage fungal problems. (Plant Toolbox)
Use a light, well-draining potting mix and a pot with drainage. A blend of houseplant soil, perlite, orchid bark, and coco coir provides excellent drainage while retaining enough moisture for healthy growth.
Rex Begonia prefers warm temperatures and high humidity. It thrives in bathrooms, plant cabinets, greenhouses, or rooms with naturally higher humidity. If your home is particularly dry, a pebble tray or humidifier can help keep the foliage looking its best. Keep the plant away from cold drafts, heating vents, and air conditioning. (Plant Toolbox)
This plant grows from a rhizome, forming a compact mound of colorful foliage over time. Remove damaged or aging leaves as needed to encourage fresh growth and maintain its appearance. While Rex Begonias do produce flowers, they are generally grown for their extraordinary leaves rather than their blooms. (Home & Garden Education Center)
Rex Begonias are toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. They contain soluble calcium oxalates, with the highest concentration found in the rhizomes and roots. Keep them out of reach of pets and small children. (aspca.org)
Upcoming Events: Tissue Culture Workshop August 29 @ 11 am / Macramé Air Plant Holder Class Sunday Sept. 13th @ 3 pm / Moss Art Thursday Sept. 24th @ 6pm / Moss Art Thursday Oct. 1st @ 6 pm
