Description
In the wild, this plant grows in mountainous regions and tropical forests, but it adapts beautifully to life indoors. Rex Begonia has a well-developed root system that often pushes up through the surface of the soil. Its broad, heart-shaped leaves have pointed, slightly serrated edges.
Depending on the variety, leaf color can range from glossy burgundy to copper with a silvery sheen.
Rex Begonia Varieties
The most popular varieties include:
Caring for Rex Begonia
Avoid placing the plant in shaded corners of the room — insufficient light causes the leaves to fade and gradually dry out. At the same time, keep it away from direct sunlight, as the leaves are delicate and can easily get scorched. The ideal spot is one with plenty of bright, indirect light.
It’s also important to water the plant on a regular schedule, avoiding both overwatering and letting it dry out completely. Too much water leads to root rot, leaf drop, and disease. During the warmer months, pay close attention to soil moisture and don’t let the root ball dry out completely.
From spring through fall, water the plant 2 to 4 times a week using room-temperature water that has been left to sit overnight. In winter, reduce watering to 1–2 times a week. Misting with a spray bottle is not recommended. If needed, it can be done sparingly — no more than once every 10 days.
Rex Begonia helps purify indoor air by collecting dust on its leaves. Wipe them down gently with a soft, damp cloth once or twice a month. Keep in mind that the stems and leaves are fragile — handle the plant with care during all maintenance, including watering.
Repotting
When repotting, choose a pot with a slightly larger diameter than the previous one — Rex Begonia has a well-developed, branching root system that needs room to spread. Repot into a fresh, pre-prepared potting mix. You can make your own by combining loam, leaf mold, sand, and peat. Many growers also add compost, which improves porosity and aeration. Always place a drainage layer at the bottom of the pot to prevent water from sitting and causing root rot.
Rex Begonias do best in wide, shallow containers, since their roots spread outward rather than downward. You can plant several cuttings together in one larger pot to create a lush, eye-catching display.
Propagation
There are several ways to propagate Rex Begonia:
From seed. This is the most time-consuming method, since begonia seeds don’t have the best germination rate. However, it’s also the cheapest way to get a new plant. The seeds are extremely small and resemble dust. Seed propagation is typically done by breeders, as it requires a lot of patience and time.
By tubers. Dividing the root system is a tricky process, because for the plant to develop properly you need a section of the root that has a growth bud — and there usually aren’t many. You’ll also need special rooting stimulators to help the future plant take root.
From a leaf or cutting — the most popular and easiest method. Place the freshly cut piece in a diluted fertilizer solution or plain water until the first roots form (they appear quite quickly). Then transplant the cutting into a peat-based potting mix and cover it with a glass jar or clear plastic wrap. Lightly moisten the soil every day.
Pests & Diseases
Pests often spread to begonias from nearby plants. To protect against them, you can use insecticides or natural home remedies such as insecticidal soap, chamomile tea spray, or a wood ash solution.
Use chemical insecticides with caution and only as a last resort — they are toxic and can be harmful to people and pets. As a preventive measure, keep to a proper watering schedule without overwatering, and place the plant in a comfortable spot so it stays strong and resilient. Experts recommend regularly airing out the room where your begonia lives, while being careful to avoid cold drafts.
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Questions & Answers
It does, but very sparsely — the main decorative feature of the plant is its foliage.
The material doesn't matter, as long as a proper drainage system is in place.
Water your begonia when the top ½ inch (1 cm) of soil feels dry to the touch.
Water the soil thoroughly and move the pot out of direct sunlight.
This happens when the plant isn't getting enough light.
