Begonia Rex (Painted-leaf Begonia) Care & Propagation Guide

The American Begonia Society calls Begonia rex "The showboat of the begonia world". That may additionally be, however the king begonia, or Begonia Rex Cultorum Group as they are greater formally known, can also simply be my Achilles' heel: a plant that actually will no longer thrive for me, alternatively a whole lot care and interest I lavish on it.

Begonia Rex Quick Info

Botanical/Scientific Name	Begonia Rex
Common Name	Rex Begonia, King Begonia, Painted-leaf Begonia, Beefsteak Geranium
Varieties	Fairy,Rumba,Pink Charming,Tornado,Angel Wing,Duarten,Ballet Rex
Uses	Perfect indoor plants for the window garden
Origin	Northern India
Light Care	Bright indirect light
Soil Care	Fast-draining soil
Temperature Care	65F (18C) to 75F (24C)
Humidity Care	At least be 50% humidity
Watering	Regular water
Pruning Care	Minimal pruning
Fertilizer Care	Diluted dose of organic, soluble food every four to six weeks
Toxic	Poisonous for both cats and dogs

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Begonia Rex Care in Detail

Begonia Rex Watering

Begonia Rex do high-quality with accurate drainage so the roots are by no means soaking in water, reduce off from oxygen. There is extra than one way to create a appropriate developing medium in a terrarium, however commonly speakme a loose, porous combine of equal components peat moss (moisten earlier than use) and perlite works nicely for begonias. Some Begonia Rex mixes comprise different components, such as sand or vermiculite, which is fine. It would possibly take some experimentation to determine out what works excellent in your terrarium, however remain away from potting mixes that comprise soil as they can keep too a lot water. Another begonia rex alternative to scan with is putting a layer of gravel or small pebbles underneath the developing medium to assist with drainage. Begonia Rex Plain inexperienced sphagnum moss is every other frequent developing medium for terrarium begonias. Wet the moss with warm water and squeeze out the extra earlier than putting Begonia Rex into the terrarium.

Begonia Rex Soil Requirements

The Begonia rex is one of the most stunning houseplants out there. And that's besides producing many vegetation like different Begonia species.
A Begonia rex wishes fast-draining soil. The soil must be porous. It wants vivid however oblique daylight and the soil have to constantly be moist.
The unique Begonia rex had darkish leaves with awesome silver designs. The unique plant got here from the us of a of India.
This plant can come in a range of colorations relying on how it’s bred. But most come with leaves in a tremendously crimson with blackened edges. Or purple with begonia rex silver edges.
Like most Begonia Rex species, this Begonia is handy to care for. But it's vital to recognize the small print due to the fact it's no longer like most different houseplants.
We're going to take you via all the important components of caring for a Begonia rex. Keep studying to discover out how to hold your Begonia Rex healthy, happy, and beautiful.

Begonia Rex Light Requirements

Begonia Rex typically select shade, so retaining them out of direct solar is a cardinal rule of developing them in terrariums. Give Begonia Rex filtered light, such as from a north or east window in summer season or a south or west window in winter. Fluorescent lights additionally work well. Leave them below lights for 12 to 14 hours per day. Experiment with synthetic and herbal mild and region primarily based on the place you stay and seasonal changes.
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Begonia Rex Temperature Care

Begonia Rex do first-rate in a distinctly heat environment. Begonia Rex Room temperature works nicely for them. In fact, can end developing or even go dormant and drop all their leaves if temperatures drop too low (especially at some stage in fall/winter time).
This capability it’s a right notion to hold this species away from chilly home windows if you prefer it to preserve its lovely foliage year-round.

Begonia Rex Humidity Care

While Begonia Rex do no longer like their developing medium to be too moist and soggy, they do like excessive humidity. This is accurate information for the begonia rex terrarium gardener, seeing that a terrarium naturally continues the moisture inside. Aim for a minimal of 50 percentage humidity to hold your Begonia Rex alive, however lookup the particular range of plant to locate out the perfect humidity. Some kinds of begonia thrive between 60 and eighty percentage humidity, whilst sure sorts do great with almost one hundred percentage humidity. Mist the terrarium with water as regularly as wanted to hold the humidity in the suited range. Aim the water spray at the backside of the terrarium, alternatively than on the begonia foliage, as water on the leaves can inspire disease. Use a hygrometer to measure the humidity inner the terrarium.
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Begonia Rex Fertilizer

Growing Begonia Rex vegetation in a terrarium creates a special fertilization situation. Because the developing medium will by no means be flushed out, the salts from fertilizer will remain in the developing medium and construct up over time. For this purpose fertilize very little, if at all. If you fertilize Begonia Rex, you can use a mild plant meals diluted by way of 1/2 as soon as a yr in the spring or summer. (Find more Vine Plants Indoor here.)

Begonia Rex Pruning

Begonia Rex require minimal pruning until long, naked stems require reducing back, or you’d like to create a fuller plant. Using easy pruning snips virtually reduce the stem lower back to the base and the ultimate component have to sprout new leaves and stems. Pinching the Begonia Rex recommendations on youthful plant life helps them develop fuller too.

Begonia Rex Repotting

When repotting Begonia Rex to a higher pot, pick out a barely large pot for a transplant. Slightly capability to pick a pot that is an inch (2.5 cm.), than Begonia Rex's preceding pot no large or bigger. It is higher to regularly make bigger the dimension of the pot as the plant grows as an alternative than plunking it in a massive container. Before repotting begonia Rex at all, make positive they have a strong root structure. Select a Begonia Rex pot with sufficient drainage holes. You can also even desire to fill the backside of the container with gravel and then pinnacle it with the potting medium. Use a soilless planting medium that is equal components peat moss, vermiculite, and perlite. Amend the medium with a couple of tablespoons of floor limestone to assist manipulate humidity. Mix collectively nicely and moisten with water. Gently cast off the Begonia Rex from its container and without delay transplant it into the new medium. Water the begonia transplant and acclimate it in an location out of direct sun.

Begonia Rex Pest & Disease Cotrol

As stated above, Begonia Rex are inclined to powdery mildew. Initial signs and symptoms may additionally encompass recognizing and curling of the foliage observed by means of white patches on the leaves. As the disorder progresses, foliage and shoots may additionally grow to be distorted, buds might also fail to open normally, and Begonia Rex foliage can also flip chlorotic and yellow. Some Begonia Rex leaf drop may also occur. Keeping the foliage dry and imparting true air circulation are beneficial in stopping powdery mildew. Low-toxicity picks for treating powdery mildew consist of neem oil and horticultural oil.
Begonia Rex may additionally be contaminated with spider mites in hot, dry circumstances. Initial signs of spider mite feeding are small yellow or whitish stippling (spots) that show up on the foliage the place chlorophyll has been removed. Begonia Rex leaf or needle drop might also be brought about by way of dehydration due to loss of water by using such feeding. In heavy infestations, plant power is frequently decreased and ugly webbing can also be viewed on the foliage. Insecticidal soap, summer time oils, and miticides can be used for manipulate of spider mites.
Begonia Rex is once in a while afflicted by using mealy bugs. The nymphs of mealy bugs feed on the sap of the plant with the aid of piercing the outer layer of plant tissue and then they secrete the honeydew that can lead to sooty mould and is additionally alluring to ants. Begonia Rex Mealybugs can be managed via wiping the location with a cotton ball dipped in rubbing alcohol.
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Begonia Rex Propagation 

Begonia Rex Propagation from Leaves

We can propagate Begonia Rex in a medium to vibrant spot as a houseplant. In Southern regions, it may additionally advantage from a safety from direct solar at some point of the warmth of the day, however in Northern regions, some Begonia Rex solar on the leaves gives no problem.
Water Begonia Rex when the potting combine simply dries. It's higher to maintain them a little too dry than too wet; they can rot if the soil does not dry out nicely enough.
Begonia Rex do not require pretty as a great deal humidity as many different unique houseplants, however if your domestic has dry air, enhance humidity in the iciness months to maintain the leaf suggestions from turning brown and dry.
Begonia Rex don't seem to be heavy feeders, so you can fertilize them as little as as soon as or twice a year. But if you prefer Begonia Rex quicker growth, fertilize them greater often with a general-purpose houseplant fertilizer (following the instructions on the packaging).

Begonia Rex Propagation from Cuttings

Gather the objects on the "Materials & Tools" listing above. To be cautious, I constantly rinse all my resources (and my hands) in a answer of 1 teaspoon bleach to 1 quart of water. Begonias are susceptible to fungal infections, and bleach kills any lurkers. Fill the tray with damp potting combine and you’re geared up for the exciting section — taking the Begonia Rex cuttings!
Look for a healthy, full-grown leaf on the mother or father Begonia Rex plant. It can be a tattered, older leaf, however on the underside, the foremost veins ought to be plump and undamaged. Cut the Begonia Rex leaf and stem from the most important plant, then take off the leaf stem and throw it away so you're left with simply the leaf.

Begonia Rex Propagation in Water

If you’ve determined to take stem cuttings from your Begonia, propagation will be an absolute breeze. My favourite technique is to propagate Begonia Rex in water, given that I like the appear of quite vases with flora developing in them. There are many specific propagation units out there that make propagation beautiful!
To water propagate your Begonia Rex, all you have to do is partly submerge the stem in water, leaving the leaves sticking out. Then, location the vase or glass containing the Begonia Rex in a mild and heat spot to supply the ideal developing conditions. Do keep away from full sun, as water in a clear container can warmth rapidly and Begonias are no longer a fan of it anyway.
After a few days or weeks (depending on season and circumstances) your Begonia Rex cuttings will have grown a root device and possibly even already have pushed out their first new leaves. Congrats!
Take some mild however wealthy soil (a peat moss-based one combined with perlite works well) to pot up the new flora and preserve them gently moist. Begonia Rex would possibly be a bit cranky about the go to soil however ought to proceed to develop after a quick adjustment period.

Begonia Rex Varieties

• Angel Wing Begonia

Angel Wing begonia is an upright-growing range that has wing-shaped leaves noticed in silver and crimson flowers. It can develop two toes tall.

• Ballet Rex Begonia

Ballet Rex begonia points suitable silvery-green leaves edged in mid-green. Reddish stems accent the plant. It grows about eight inches tall and wide.

• Duarten Rex Begonia

Showing off pointed leaves stipped in bronze and silver, Duarten is a showstopper for desks and tabletops.

• Fairy Rex Begonia

A pleasant range with silvery leaves, Fairy additionally provides colors of crimson and cream in its leaves.

• Flamenco Rex Begonia

Flamenco Rex begonia suggests off pleasant silver-green leaves accented with pink and inexperienced veins. It grows eight inches tall and wide.

• Pink Charming Rex Begonia

As you may assume from a range named Pink Charming, this one provides purple and inexperienced leaves playfully splashed in silver.

• Red Kiss Rex Begonia

Red Kiss Rex begonia indicates off terrific purple-black foliage with a broad, metallic-red ring. It's an dependent and alluring houseplant variety. Red Kiss Rex begonia grows about eight inches tall and wide.

• Rumba Rex Begonia

Rumba Rex begonia is a impressive decision that suggests off reddish-green leaves and silvery variegation. It grows eight inches tall and wide.

• Salsa Rex Begonia

Salsa Rex begonia is a silver-leaf kind this is variegated with colors of inexperienced and burgundy-red. It grows eight inches tall and wide.

• Silver Limbo Rex Begonia

Silver Limbo is a compact, small-leafed range that gives stunning metallic-silver foliage that has purple-red backsides. It grows about 6 inches tall and wide.

• Spitfire Rex Begonia

Spitfire Rex begonia is a beautiful range that indicates off reddish-pink leaves edged in silver and green. It grows about eight inches tall and wide.

• Tornado Rex Begonia

A wildly distinctive variety, Tornado affords darkish inexperienced leaves accented with splashes of silver, bronze, and deep, wealthy purple.

• Yamileth Rex Begonia

An especially showy indoor plant, Yamileth provides green-black leaves that transition to silver towards the edges. Yamileth is a showstopper!
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Begonia Rex Care FAQs

Begonia Rex Drooping

The most vital aspect to do first is to verify your Begonia Rex's developing prerequisites and work out if there are any foremost troubles that should have resulted in your begonia's leaves drooping.
Check how moist the soil is – Begonia Rex don't like absolutely dry or waterlogged soil.
Check the pot you are the usage of – Make certain it has masses of drainage holes to let the extra water drain away after watering.
Think about the place your plant is placed – Low mild prerequisites make overwatering plenty extra likely, as your plant’s water desires will decrease dramatically in low light. Placing your plant in excessive direct daylight is no longer a high-quality choice either, as this can motive leaf hot and wilting due to speedy water loss from the plant.
Consider the soil – Begonia Rex like their soil to preserve onto some moisture, however extra water must drain easily. If water swimming pools on the floor of the soil for greater than a few seconds when watering, the soil is no longer sufficiently well-draining.
Check the humidity stage – Begonia Rex humidity under 40% makes wilting a whole lot greater likely.
Examine your Begonia Rex for pests – Many pests like to feed on begonias, accelerating water loss from your plant, inflicting wilting in the case of a massive infestation.
Check for Begonia Rex contamination – Black or brown patches on the leaves might also point out infection. Pathogens such as pythium unfold hastily to the roots, stems, and leaves, rapidly ensuing in your plant dying.

Begonia Rex Silver

Its leaves are brightly colored metal silver with beautiful darker marking on the edges and red colouration in a megastar shape, lined with darkish red-purple colouration, in the centre of the textured leaves. Leaves have roughly toothed margins. Frequently grown indoors as a houseplant for its putting foliage, this plant fits container growing. It has a hairy dependancy and is frost tender, so it is encouraged to preserve above freezing temperatures, and plant in a function of partial sunlight, in moist well-draining soil for top of the line growth.

Begonia Rex Houseplant

A long-time preferred of residence plant lovers, Begonia Rex is grown for its colorful, textured foliage.
Fancy-leafed begonias produce dramatic, massive leaves streaked, veined, or splashed in colorings of silver, pink, purple, cream, green, or burgundy.
Tiny, insignificant flower clusters can also develop on tall stems. Flowers use the plant's energy, which is better used to develop these wonderful leaves. Pinch them off as quickly as you see them to inspire giant leaves.
Begonia Rex is rhizomatous, developing from a thick, fleshy rhizome that grows simply under the floor of the soil. Repot in spring when the rhizome outgrows the pot. Because rhizomes have shallow roots, a shallow pot will do.
Begonia Rex can be tough to develop due to the fact of its want for excessive humidity. Dry, brittle leaves are a symptom of dry air. A terrarium, Wardian case or glass cloche may additionally be simply the answer for your humidity-loving begonias.
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Begonia Rex Indoor Care

Here are a few steps to take earlier than bringing your new Begonia Rex home.
1. Have a wide, shallow potting vessel and saucer geared up to repot Begonia Rex.
2. Make positive you have the proper begonia rex soil and equipment on hand earlier than repotting your rex begonia. These objects are certain below.
3. Find a best area in your domestic to region your rex begonia. It will thrive in an region with masses of oblique sunlight.
The most appropriate pots and planters for rex begonias are extensive and shallow to make room for their developing rhizomes. Rex begonias select a well-draining pot, so clay pots with drainage holes work well. These flowers additionally develop properly in a striking basket.
The best pot measurement for your rex begonia will rely on its modern size. Since the rhizomes want room to grow, it is high-quality to make sure the plant has an inch or so of house round the root ball to develop outward. Repotting each 12 months to make greater room for the rhizomes will preserve your Begonia Rex developing happily.

Begonia Rex Red Robin

Begonia Rexs are a complicated team of perennial flora which can take a wide variety of forms. They are in the household Begoniaceae which has many distinctive species. Most are native to moist subtropical and tropical environments, and as such many of these are grown indoors as houseplants the place temperatures are cooler. A wide variety are additionally grown outside in cooler climates however though they are perennials they are handled horticulturally as annuals as they generally can't face up to less warm winters. They select a moist nicely drained soil that is no longer too moist or allowed to dry out completely. Begonia (Rex Cultorum Group), or Begonia rex as it used to be earlier recognized as, is the Rex Begonia (also regarded as Painted Leaf Begonia, King Begonia, or Fancy Leaf Begonia). It is a crew of hybrids that all originated traditionally from the species Begonia rex, following crosses with different Begonia species, and its dad or mum is native to north jap India via to China. All hybrids in this crew are grown specifically for its foliage - shape, form, colour, sample and colouring - and at the same time as they all produce flora they are pretty insignificant. They are a kind of rhizomatous begonia even though they are classed one by one to others due to their barely specific cultural requirements. Rex Begonias are in many instances grown as houseplants, and are botanically evergreen perennials. They have alternate leafs alongside a fleshy stem, which creeps and grows simply above the soil surface. Rex begonias are convenient to propagate through leaf cuttings, or even stem cuttings, or division in greater hooked up plants. 'Harmony's Red Robin' is a chosen cultivar which has darkish red-black centre and shiny pink leaves, with a chocolate brown margin.
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