This plant truly is a work of art, from spiralling leaves to intricate patterns and stunning colours, it's hard to beat the magnificence of the Rex Begonia.
Begonia rex-cultorum
beh-GO-nee-ah rex kul-TOR-um
Common Names: Rex Begonia, Beefsteak Geranium, Painted-Leaf Begonia, King Begonia, Fancy-Leaf Begonia
Family: Begoniaceae
Origin: India
Growth: Clumping
Light: Bright, indirect
Foot Candles: 100 - 200
Water: Keep moist
Humidity: 40% - 70%
Temperature: 16°C - 28°C
Soil: Regular potting mix
Container: Self-watering planter, living wall
Nutrients: 15-10-10 Monthly
Propagation: Seed, division, or leaf cuttings
Interiorscape Use: Adds colour and interest
Common Pests: Mealybugs, Aphids, Spider Mites, Scale, Thrips.
Common Issues: Direct sun will crisp the leaves. If grown for foliage, remove flowers. Susceptible to mildew.
Comments: Named after Michael Begon, Governor of French Canada from 1638 to 1710. Rex is latin for King. One of the most hybridised plants in interior horticulture. Many colours available and some even have interesting spiral patterns.
Toxicity: Kidney failure in animals, vomiting, salivation in dogs and cats. The most toxic part is the roots, which are never visible so the threat is negligible.
