Black Mamba Begonia For Sale? Top 42 Best Answers

The wide world of begonias

The genus Begonia includes more than 1,300 species and countless hybrids, mutations and suitable seedlings, which are divided into several classes according to their general appearance and similar culture. Originally there were only four accepted classes; there are now eight clearly defined groups. For more information on begonias, visit the American Begonia Society’s website, www.begonias.org.

Semperflorens: This group is probably the best known in the world. Often referred to as “wax” or “bedding” begonias, these plants are perpetual bloomers with round, glossy leaves that are usually green or brown. There are a few colorful varieties.

Canes: These begonias have tough, elongated stems with a bamboo-like appearance. Her grandparents nicknamed them “Angel Wings” because of their recognizable wing-shaped leaves.

Shrubs: From miniature to giant, these bushy, multi-stemmed species are easy to grow. Many plants in this class have hairy stems or matted leaves.

Rhizomatous: Grown for their showy foliage, these begonias are heavy spring bloomers. They don’t get very tall because they grow from creeping rhizomes. The wide variety of leaf shapes makes them popular with collectors.

Bulbous: These begonias are typically grown for their showy flowers, which come in all colors except blue. They vary in size and are dormant during the fall and winter months, restarting each spring.

Rex: Famed for their outstanding foliage, color, and texture, Rex begonias are actually a type of rhizomatous begonias. With hundreds of cultivars bred for foliage, flowers are secondary to the stout foliage.

Hanging/Scandent: Usually grown in hanging baskets, this class has telltale glossy leaves and pendulous buds.

Thick-stemmed: Not widespread, these begonias have large, fleshy stems and an upright habit.

You usually see flowering begonias brightening up summer porches and garden beds, but the following odd varieties are unlikely to be spotted on your next stroll.

Cultivated more for their foliage than their flowers, these super-rare Begonias will make you see this common garden favorite in a whole new light.

From color-changing abilities to trippy patterns and 3-D textures, here are 22 begonia varieties every plant lover needs to see!

1. Begonia baramensis

This stunning Begonia has dark green – almost black – spade-shaped leaves with prominent pink veins and outer edges that appear to be dipped in silver!

Occasionally scattered silver spots appear on the innermost leaf blades, giving the impression of a starry night sky.

Common name: Begonia baramensis ‘Sarawak’

Average price: $90-100

Average size: 15-20 inches tall

Key Features: Intensely dark leaves, contrasting silver edges, showy pink veins

2. Begonia manicata ‘Aureomaculata’

The wonderful mottled white and yellow pattern mixed with the deep green leaf color of this begonia creates the appearance of leopard skin.

Shaped somewhere between hearts and lily pads, its broad, smooth leaves reveal another striking feature upon closer inspection – dark red petioles and tiny red hairs lining the edges.

Common Name: Leopard Begonia

Average price: $25-40

Average Size: 6-12 inches tall

Main features: Mottled white and yellow variegation, shiny broad leaves, red petioles and hairs on the leaf margins

3. Begonia longiciliata ‘Sizemoreae’

This captivating plant has large, rounded leaves with a dark green base and a light green halo near the edges, and deep pink undersides with densely hairy pink-white stems.

The darker green area is covered in black veining and the leaves have an intensely ruffled texture with soft white hairs scattered across the surface and edges.

Common name: Begonia sizemoreae

Average price: $25-30

Average size: 12-15 inches tall

Key Features: Heavily crimped texture, light green inner band, white hairs, prominent veining

4. Begonia imperialis

This begonia has elegant heart-shaped leaves that taper to a perfectly curved tip and has a striking silver-green base color streaked with dark green.

The paved texture and soft, fine hairs covering the leaf surface give them a luxurious, velvety feel, making this plant a delight for the senses.

Common Name: Imperial Begonia

Average price: $30-70

Average Size: 6-15 inches tall

Key Features: Heart-shaped foliage; grey-green/dark green combination; nubby, velvety texture

5. Begonia luxurius

With a shape unique to many other begonias, this variety’s long, draped, lance-shaped leaves appear closer to a mini palm tree.

The glossy and exotic leaves have slightly jagged edges and are a rich dark green.

Meanwhile, the undersides sport a bronze hue with chestnut-brown stems, and great care will produce sweetly scented yellow mini-flowers.

Common Name: Palm Leaf Begonia

Average price: $20-50

Average size: 1-2 meters high

Key Features: Long, palm-like fronds; jagged edges; copper-colored underside; maroon stems

6. Begonia listada

Compact yet full of character, this decorative begonia variety is full of elongated ovate leaves that almost resemble lips or angel wings.

The leaves are a rich, deep green enhanced by a light green stripe running down the center and are covered in tiny hairs that give them a silky texture.

The dark red underside and sweet, daisy-like blooms add an extra appeal too!

Common Name: Striped Begonia

Average price: $20-35

Average size: 7-10 inches tall

Key Features: Elongated ovate foliage, bold green stripe detail, white daisy-like flowers

7. Begonia blancii ‘Variegata’

This intriguing little Begonia with smooth and thick spatulate leaves with a yellow, dark green and mottled brown appearance is from a relatively recent discovery on the Philippine island of Palawan.

The strikingly mottled leaves are borne on brown to rose-pink stalks with wispy white hairs, and with great care will produce pretty rose-white tulip-like flowers.

Common Name: Begonia blancii ‘Mottled Shape’

Average price: $25-40

Average size: 12-20 inches tall

Key Features: Rounded, spatulate foliage; colorful mottled pattern; maroon stems

8. Begonia rex

Known alternately as Painted, Fancy Leaf, and King Begonia, this bushy, stunning species features large, cupped, ovate leaves in shades of metallic green and pink/purple, dramatically forked with dark green lightning forks along the leaf veins are striated.

As a wonderful contrast, the stems and undersides of the leaves show a deep burgundy tone.

Common Name: Painted Leaf Begonia

Average price: $15-30

Average size: 1-1.5 feet tall

Key Features: Large ovate foliage, silvery green and dark green striped pattern, burgundy undersides

9. Begonia rex ‘Tie Dye’

This quirky begonia hybrid brings all the colorful vibes of the ’60s with its gorgeous spiraling leaf pattern of red, deep pink and white – creating a trippy ombré effect!

B. rex ‘Tie Dye’ plants often feature a silvery-white spiral in their midsection with a rose-pink or purple color scheme, and have a maple-leaf shape with multiple pointed lobes.

Common Name: Tie Begonia

Average price: $15-20

Average size: 10-14 inches tall

Key Features: Spiraled pink/purple and white chromaticity, broad maple leaf shape, exaggeratedly pointed lobes

10. Begonia ‘Black Mamba’

Although small, this highly dramatic Begonia hybrid is hard to miss with its black foliage.

Its rounded, slightly star-shaped leaves grow out in a loose spiral from the center, and each leaf overlaps in a dense, bushy display.

The leaves are also fringed with tiny pink hairs that match the bright pink flowers that shoot up on tall stalks.

Common Name: Black Mamba Begonia

Average price: $12-15

Average Size: 4-6 inches tall

Key Features: Night sky black foliage, loose spiral formation, pink hairs/margins, rounded pale pink flowers

11. Begonia brevirimosa

A contender for one of the showiest of all Begonias is this bold and beautiful variety with glossy 12 inch long leaves with a striking dark olive green (almost black) and bubblegum pink stripe pattern!

The long elliptical leaves cascade in a dense, shrubby habit as it grows, accentuating the dramatic veining detail and creating light pink streaks that take on a metallic sheen with age.

Common Name: The Exotica Begonia

Average price: $40-50

Average size: 2-3 feet tall

Key Features: Large, meaningful leaves; bold dark green/metallic pink stripe pattern; compact growth

12. Begonia plebeya

This pretty begonia cultivar has large and broad, lily pad-shaped leaves of a rich emerald green hue with mottled brown markings appearing between the central veins in each section.

The effect of these coffee-brown spots, which can appear faint or strong on different leaves, highlights the light green vein detail beneath, almost like an artistic brass rub.

Common Name: Barsaloux Begonia

Average price: $35

Average size: 12-14 inches tall

Key Features: Large lily pad, emerald green leaves, rich brown markings in each leaf section

13. Begonia soli mutata

With its name meaning ‘sun-changing’, this beautiful, heavily textured begonia variety sees its clumping, algae-green foliage darken as light levels intensify!

Its broad, rounded leaves are mostly dark green with light green veins and have a ruffled, pebbly texture. A gorgeous pink-red tone also lines the edges and undersides.

Common name: sun begonia

Average price: $20-30

Average Size: 6-12 inches tall

Key Features: Foliage darkens with light pebble/goosebump surface and rich light and dark green color contrast

14. Begonia dregei

This showy variety has deep green leaves with two small and two large lobes on each side with an elongated pointed tip and a slightly serrated edge, similar to a maple leaf.

But unlike the common maple leaf, this begonia plant is dotted with silver-white flecks on its smooth, glossy surface. With great care, round, white-pink flowers also bloom in summer.

Common Name: Maple Leaf Begonia

Average price: $40-50

Average size: 20-40 inches tall

Key Features: Maple leaf shaped foliage, green with white spotted pattern, white/pink flowers

15. Begonia microsperma

A small but showy variety, the microsperma or “small seed” begonia has thick, textured green leaves that can be ovate or almost perfectly rounded.

The glossy foliage has a beautifully wavy surface covered in hundreds of tiny, white bristles.

The buttercup-yellow flowers, which it sends up in summer, form a pretty contrast to the lush green.

Common Name: Begonia ‘Ficicola’

Average price: $30-55

Average Size: 4-6 inches tall

Key Features: Deeply embossed leaf structure, rounded/elliptical foliage shape, covering of white hairs

16. Begonia kingiana

Named after the 19th-century botanist Sir George King, this compact and charming begonia plant produces a dense cluster of small spade-shaped leaves that are emerald green in color and have prominent light green and yellow veins that create a tortoise shell pattern.

The leaves grow on hairless red stalks and have a subtle white “dot” where the stalk joins the petiole below.

Common Name: Tortoiseshell Begonia

Average price: $30-45

Average size: 6-8 inches tall

Main features: Green-yellow variegated tortoiseshell pattern, small spade-shaped foliage, red undersides

17. Begonia mazae ‘Nigricans’

Similar in shape to Begonia ‘Black Mamba’, this beautifully patterned, pendulous cultivar features almost rounded leaves with a perfectly curved lateral tip, almost like a speech bubble or an angel’s wing.

The unique leaves begin life with striking shades of light and dark green before turning a duller green and eventually black as they mature.

Common name: Begonia nigricans

Average price: $15-20

Average Size: 6-12 inches tall

Key Features: Angel wing shaped foliage, light to dark green pattern, matures to a solid black hue with age

18. Begonia crassicaulis

This strange and extremely rare variety of Begonia grows from a thick central stem that resembles bark and sends out a dense clump of deeply lobed, glossy green leaves that fan out like palms.

Impressively, this species of begonia defoliates (drops its leaves) naturally during the winter before sending out large and healthy pale pink flowers on the same leafless stems the following spring!

Common name: Begonia crassicaulis

Average Price: $20-25 (seeds only)

Average Height: 6-18 inches tall

Key Features: Thick, bark-like trunk; dramatically lobed foliage; defoliated in winter

19. Begonia salaziensis

Native to the tropical dry forests of Mauritius, this endangered begonia species features dull dark green leaves that grow in a pointed ellipse or angel’s wing shape.

When this begonia blooms, it produces quite showy pink and white bell-shaped flowers that hang down in clusters, quite overwhelming the foliage.

Common name: Begonia salaziensis

Average Price: Currently unknown

Average size: 1-2.5 meters high

Key Features: Winged/elliptical leaf shape, matte dark green color, showy pink/white flowers

20. Begonia x Voodoo

This striking hybrid of the Begonia rex cultivar has light green, slightly lobed and pointed, spade-shaped leaves with beautiful silvery veins embedded in the dark green stripes.

Each sheet has even the tiniest hint of pink blush! The leaves are thicker than most other begonias, and the rigid veins are said to feel like palm lines on the hand.

Common Name: Begonia ‘Voodoo Star’

Average price: $10-15

Average Size: 4-6 inches tall

Key Features: Pale green foliage with dark green/silver striped pattern; thick, pronounced vein detail

21. Begonia fuchsioides

Grown for its attractive pink inflorescences as well as foliage, the bushy fuchsia begonia produces multiple branches of small and glossy dark green leaves with an elliptical shape.

Hanging from each clump of leaves is its sweetest feature – pendent buds ranging in color from pale lilac and fuchsia pink to passionate red!

Common name: fuchsia begonia

Average price: $10-30 (depending on flower color)

Average size: 1-2 feet tall

Key Features: Showy pink/purple/red pendulous flowers; bushy, clump-forming growth; shiny dark green leaves

22. Begonia maculata

The variegated pattern of this dazzling Begonia species seems too decorative for nature, and features perfectly applied speckles of silvery white on its long bottle-green leaves.

Its oblong, angel-wing shaped leaves are 8 inches long with dark red undersides supported on thick, bamboo cane-like stems for an extra whimsical factor!

Common Name: Polka Dot Begonia

Average price: $150-300

Average size: 1-1.5 meters high

Key Features: Showy leaves with white polka dot pattern, long leaf with angel wings; bamboo-like stalks

Conclusion

In summary, among the rarer begonia varieties, hunters of exotic houseplants have plenty to choose from.

From compact, colour-changing species like B. soli-mutata to the large showy leaves of B. brevirimosa and pleasing textures of B. imperialis, there is sure to be something for every decorating style and budget!

Photo credit: Names of Myanmar Plants, LaKaz Barrage

Discover different types of Begonias and add color to your home decor and gardens with beautiful blooms and colorful foliage!

Begonias have gained widespread popularity due to the showy foliage and equally amazing flowers. There are around 1000 species in countless colours, sizes and shapes! You can decorate your gardens with these wonderful specimens or place them indoors near a bright spot and watch them thrive! Here are some of the best begonia species you can grow!

Read our article on the best ornamental plants for shade here

Varieties of Begonia houseplants

Based on root structure, begonias are classified into four types: tuberous, fibrous, hardy, and rhizomatous.

Fibrous: This category includes cane begonia, wax begonia, angel wing begonia, and other varieties. All have a standard root ball with thin roots, round, small and waxy leaves. Grow small flowers.

: This category includes cane begonia, wax begonia, angel wing begonia and other varieties. All have a standard root ball with thin roots, round, small and waxy leaves. Grow small flowers. Tubers: This species has the most eye-catching large flowers in neon colors like yellow, pink, orange, red, or white. Blooms in midsummer to fall.

: This species has the most showy large flowers in neon colors such as yellow, pink, orange, red or white. Blooms in midsummer to fall. Hardy Begonias: This category is related to the species Begonia grandis and is grown as a perennial in southern regions. Foliage resembles bulbous begonia with small flowers in shades of pink or white.

: This category is related to the species Begonia grandis and is grown as a perennial in southern regions. Foliage resembles bulbous begonia with small flowers in shades of pink or white. Rhizome: This species is grown primarily for interesting foliage and preferably as a houseplant rather than a garden plant. Rex is the most popular subcategory with the most beautiful foliage of all begonias!

Note: Instead of dividing begonia species into four categories, we’ve simply listed them below in order of popularity.

Best Types of Begonia Houseplants

Flower

1. Boliviensis Begonia

Botanical name: Begonia boliviensis

This strain produces bright orange-red flowers with contrasting green leaves edged with pink. It works well in partial shade and looks great in traffic lights!

2. Reiger Begonia

Botanical name: Begonia x hiemalis

A cross between waxy and bulbous begonia, with waxy foliage and brightly colored flowers in shades of yellow and orange. It blooms profusely from spring to autumn.

3. Large Red Bronze Leaf

Botanical Name: Begonia ‘Big Red Bronze Leaf’

This has amazing red flowers that combine very well with dark green leaves with a bronze tint. This specimen can do well in both bright sun and partial shade.

4. Solenia Dusty Rose Begonia

Botanical name: Begonia ‘Solenia Dusty Rose’

A bulbous begonia hybrid, this signature cultivar features frilly pink flowers from mid-spring to mid-autumn that pair charmingly with its heart-shaped succulent leaves.

5. Ambassador White

Botanical Name: Begonia ‘Ambassador White’

Fan of white flowers? Then this variety will surely convince you! The plant thrives in both sun and shade, and blooms profusely in spring, summer, and fall.

Here are some of the prettiest white flowers you can grow

6. Ambassador Rose

Botanical Name: Begonia ‘Ambassador Rose’

This drought and pest resistant wax begonia is the perfect choice for novice gardeners. The thick, fleshy green leaves create an amazing contrast to the large buds.

7. Million Kisses

Botanical name: Begonia boliviensis ‘Million Kisses Elegance’

She blooms a subtle shade of pink that is beautifully complemented by her green foliage. The plant blooms profusely on overhanging stems and is perfect for hanging baskets.

8. Glowing embers

Botanical Name: Begonia ‘Glowing Embers’

The plant produces bright orange buds that almost look like they’re glowing! It is a compact variety with bronze-purple foliage.

9. Lighting

Botanical Name: Begonia ‘Illumination Scarlet’

With large, pendulous flowers in a rich shade of red, the plant looks gorgeous with its cascading, deep green leaves. Looks best in hanging baskets!

10. Apricot tones

Botanical Name: Begonia ‘Apricot Shades’

The exotic, apricot-colored, double flowers bear subtle hues of white, orange, and yellow. It has one of the largest flowers on the list and blooms all summer.

11. Waterfall

Botanical name: Begonia ‘Waterfall’

With large double flowers, the flowers look a little like roses. If you are looking for a flowering strain for hanging baskets, this is the strain for you!

12. Supercascade

Botanical Name: Begonia ‘Super Cascade’

Ideal for window boxes, hanging baskets and containers, the Super Cascade offers you a palette of bright colors in sun and shade.

13. Solenia Salmon Coral

Botanical Name: Begonia ‘Solenia Salmon Coral’

If you’re looking for a compact strain that blooms in a bouquet of alluring buds, then this is for you! She will look great in containers with rich, opulent deep red-orange buds!

14. Solenia Light Pink

Botanical Name: Begonia ‘Solenia Light Pink’

The plant is a favorite in flower boxes and features full pink, rose-like flowers. She also does quite well in the sun and does just as well in the shade!

Check out our article on the best balcony box flowers here

15. Nonstop Rose Begonia

Botanical Name: Begonia ‘Nonstop Deep Rose’

‘Nonstop Rose’ is a beautiful variety from the distinctive ‘Nonstop series’ of tuberous begonias. It offers flowers in beautiful shades of red, pink and mixed!

16. Rose Green Leaf

Botanical Name: Begonia Big ‘Rose Green Leaf’

The plant’s large pink flowers go very well with its light green leaves. It does well in containers, is easy to care for, and thrives in both partial sun and shade.

17. Cocktail mix

Botanical name: Begonia semperflorens-cultorum ‘Cocktail Mix’

The Cocktail series features light pink, white and red flowers with a touch of yellow in the centre. It is a compact strain and does well in partial shade.

foliage and pattern

18. Tornado Rex Begonia

Botanical name: Begonia rex ‘Tornado’

A thoroughly exotic strain, the plant has dark green leaves patterned with silver, bronze and deep purple flecks, making it stand out from the rest!

19. Ballet Rex Begonia

Botanical name: Begonia rex ‘Ballet’

The plant features stunning silver-green leaves with medium green margins on red stems. The plant also has a slight red accent overall.

20. Fairy Rex Begonia

Botanical name: Begonia rex ‘Fairy’

If you are a fan of greenery then the silvery leaves with shades of pink and cream along with the dark green veins will surely tempt you to grow them!

21. Pink Charming Rex Begonia

Botanical name: Begonia rex ‘Pink Charming’

As the name suggests, the plant features a gorgeous light pink hue on its leaves, patterned with shades of green and hints of silver.

22. Duarten Rex Begonia

Botanical name: Begonia rex ‘Duarten’

This specimen has unique pointed foliage bathed in bronze and silver tones. The leaves are also veined and spotted, giving this compact plant a great look!

23. Red Kiss

Botanical name: Begonia rex ‘Red Kiss’

One of the showiest plants on the list, it’s popular for purple-black foliage with a broad metallic red ring. Can make quite a statement wherever it is kept.

24. Salsa Rex Begonia

Botanical name: Begonia rex ‘Salsa’

The plant has dark green leaves splattered with pink color with hints of silver accents here and there. The leaves are also variegated with burgundy hues.

25. Spitfire Rex Begonia

Botanical name: Begonia rex ‘Spitfire’

With striking red-pink foliage edged in silver and edged in shades of green, it’s one of the best begonias you can grow!

26. Camouflage

Botanical Name: Begonia ‘Camouflage’

You can grow her both indoors and outdoors and she will never cease to amaze you with her fantastic red-brown leaves and small buds. It does well in the shade.

27. Polka Dot Begonia

Botanical name: Begonia maculata

Go retro in style with this amazing species of begonia with wing-shaped leaves marked with silver spots on a green background. Clusters of pretty white flowers also grow.

28. Angel Wing Begonia

Botanical Name: Begonia ‘Angel Wing’

Categorized as a tubular begonia due to its long stems, it is popular for its foliage, which is shaped like angel wings. It also makes attractive edible pink flowers.

29. Crinkle Leaf Begonia

Botanical name: Begonia moyesii

Deeply veined, lily pad-like glossy green leaves with dark brown undersides of this compact begonia give this plant a crumpled appearance, hence the name.

30. Begonia exotica

Botanical name: Begonia brevirimosa ssp. exotic

This exotic variety has large metallic leaves with light pink variegation on a bronze-green background. It does well under bright light.

31. Beleaf Begonia

Botanical Name: Begonia Beleaf Inca Flame

This plant is a real eye-catcher thanks to its deep pink large leaves with deep veins that resemble a heart shape!

31. Begonia Ambassador Scarlet

Botanical Name: Begonia ‘Ambassador Scarlet’ (Ambassador Series)

Generally grown as a semi hardy annual, this evergreen perennial features glossy rounded green foliage with red edges, you will see single red flowers with yellow stamens throughout summer.

32. Wax Begonia “Party” series

Botanical Name: Begonia (Party Series)

‘Party’ begonias have large, waxy leaves with a red tint around the edges. Scarlet, pink or pinkish-white flowers will make the overall look more pleasing.

33. Senator White Wax Begonia

Botanical name: ‘Senator White’ Begonia Semperflorens

It has dark bronze colored foliage and pure white flowers. ‘Senator White’ is drought and heat tolerant and makes a good annual in summer gardens.

34. Begonia rex ‘Zurich’

Botanical name: Begonia rex-cultorum ‘Zürich’

This begonia resembles Caladium, it features heart-shaped leaves in deep burgundy, green, pink and silver tones, green edges, pink, silver patterns and dark veins in the middle.

35. Painted Leaf Rex Begonia

Botanical name: Begonia rex-cultorum ‘Painted leaf’

Also known as Royal Begonia, it displays oval leaves in a spiral shape and patterns. The silver-grey foliage shows pink edges and a fuzzy texture.

36. Begonia Rex ‘Paul Gibory’

Botanical name: Begonia rex-cultorum ‘Paul Gibory’

‘Paul Gibory’ has pointed lobed edges, small hairy habit, the edges are surrounded by shades of pink and purple and a maroon center.

37. Rex Begonia Hybrid “Merry Christmas”

Botanical Name: Rex Begonia Hybrid ‘Merry Christmas’

This begonia hybrid features bright lime green leaves with notable red-maroon veins and a fuzzy texture on the leaf surface.

38. Rieger Begonia

Botanical name: Begonia × hiemalis

Also known as Elatior, it has dark green foliage with serrated edges and clusters of dainty red, pink, orange, or yellow single and double blooms. This strain has a compact growth habit, making it a suitable choice for growing as a houseplant.

39. Wax Begonia ‘Double Red’

Botanical Name: Wax Begonia ‘Doublet Red’

‘Doublet Red’ has small, ruffled red, rose-like flowers and glossy bronze-green leaves. It grows up to 12 centimeters high and wide.

40. Dragon Wing Begonia

Botanical name: Begonia x hybrida ‘Dragon Wings’

This hybrid features glossy, dark green leaves and clusters of bright red or pink flowers. It has a similar shape to the angel wing begonia.

Your guide to planning, planting, and growing begonias

Begonias brighten up shady spots with their colorful blooms. Unlike most flowering plants, which need at least half a day of full sun, begonias prefer to grow in the shade. You never have any downtime either. Once begonias start blooming, they bloom continuously from summer until frost.

There are different types of begonias. Wax begonias and angel wing begonias are usually grown as outdoor annuals or houseplants. Both grow from a root ball and are hardy in growing zones 9-11. Rhizomatous Begonias and Rex Begonias are prized for their decorative foliage. They grow from fleshy, creeping roots and are typically kept as houseplants. Begonia grandis is a hardy perennial begonia (zones 6-9) often grown with hostas and astilbes.

The focus of this article is on tuberous begonias. These frost-sensitive plants grow from firm, round to oval tubers. They have either an upright habit (for window boxes, flower pots and garden beds) or a cascading habit (for planters and hanging baskets). Most have rose-like flowers and come in a variety of beautiful colors. You can find some of the options HERE.

Start with a better tuber

Differences in quality are easy to spot when comparing two tuberous begonias side by side. Larger bulbs (as shown on the left) will produce taller plants with more stems and more buds. Longfield Gardens offers 5/6cm tubers that grow into large, full plants. Begonia tubers ready to plant should feel dense and firm like a potato.

Plan for success

Sun/Shade: Tuberous begonias are sensitive to intense sunlight and should also be protected from extreme heat. They grow best in filtered light under tall trees or in an area that gets around 4 hours of morning or late afternoon sunlight.

Zone: Both the foliage and bulbs are cold sensitive and will not survive winter outdoors except in zones 8-11. In cooler climates (zones 3-7), tuberous begonias are typically grown as annuals for flowers from summer through fall. To verify your growing zone, use the USDA Hardiness Zone Map here.

When to Plant: Bulbous begonias don’t grow in cold soil. Plant them outdoors in late spring, after the soil is warm and all danger of frost has passed. For earlier blooms, the bulbs can be grown indoors in pots about 8 weeks before anticipated planting outdoors. All you need is a pot, some moist growing mix and a warm, sunny spot. Start early and your begonias can bloom by Memorial Day. Learn more about growing begonias indoors.

Where to Plant: Bulbous begonias require bright light, but no direct sunlight. They grow well in full to partial shade but may not bloom in areas of heavy shade and low light. Begonias are ideal container plants for shady gardens, patios, porches and patios. Check out the range of bulbous begonia flower styles and some container options HERE.

How to plant tuberous begonias

If you are planting begonia bulbs directly in the garden, start by loosening the soil and digging a shallow hole. Place the bulb in the hole and cover with no more than 2.5 cm of soil. If you’re growing the tubers indoors, you can plant them in individual pots or in a tray filled with several inches of moist growing mix.

Place the tuber in the hole (like a bowl) with the dimple facing up. Learn how to tell which end is up HERE.

If you live in an area with wet spring weather, you can tilt the bulb slightly to prevent water from settling in the depression.

Cover the bulb with about an inch of soil, then water lightly to set it in place.

Planting tips for tuberous begonias

After planting, wait until the first sprouts appear before watering. Overwatering before you see leaves can cause the bulb to rot. Sprouts should appear in 2-4 weeks. When planting begonias in pots or planters, make sure the containers have a drainage hole at the bottom. Fill them with moistened seed mix containing about 20% compost. Plant the tuber and cover it with about an inch of soil. When planting multiple tubers in the same container, space them 3-4 inches apart. If you are growing tuberous begonias in your garden or landscape, plant them in fertile, well-drained soil. Adding compost or topsoil at planting time improves soil fertility and helps it retain moisture. What to expect

Begonias are a fantastic choice for container gardens. They are a great choice to add as a fill plant. Place containers along walkways, at the edge of front steps and in shady places where a splash of color would benefit your garden design. Make sure the container you use has a drainage hole. Overwatering begonias is an easy way to kill them.

Planting begonias in pots

For the outdoor container garden, create container gardens after the threat of frost has passed. Non-tuber begonias can be overwintered as houseplants. Pot them up before temperatures drop into the 40s. Begonias are extremely sensitive to cold. Always use a container with a drainage hole.

Begonias do not like moist soil. Containers can be placed in full sun to shade depending on the variety. Read the label to learn what’s best for your plant.

Best soil for potted begonias

Use good quality potting soil for potted begonias. It is optional to mix some compost into the soil before planting the plants.

Caring for begonias in planters

Begonias make excellent container plants. They prefer to be lightly attached to roots rather than having room for their roots to spread. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings and add a balanced liquid fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season.

Water begonias in pots

Allow the top 2 inches of soil to dry out between watering sessions. Water until the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Porous containers, such as unglazed clay pots, require more frequent watering than plastic, glazed, or other non-porous containers. Containers placed in sunny locations or under overhangs will also need more frequent watering.

If there is a coaster under the container, be sure to empty it after watering and rain events. Begonias tolerate short periods of drought. You will most likely be fine if you go away for a few days and it doesn’t rain.

Fertilize begonias in the pot

Add a balanced liquid fertilizer to container begonia gardens during their active growing season. If you’re using slow-release granular fertilizer, try to avoid getting it on the stems or foliage. Water after applying granular fertilizer. Water every two weeks or as directed on the package. Do not give more fertilizer than recommended. Adding less fertilizer is healthier for plants than adding too much. Begonias will flower more often if you develop a regular feeding habit.

Winter care for potted begonias

Unless you live in a warm climate where the temperature doesn’t drop below 45 degrees F, your begonias won’t survive the winter months outdoors. Place your non-tuber begonias indoors and treat them like houseplants.

Can begonias be grown indoors

Dig up tuberous begonias. Allow the top of the plant to die off and the tuber to dry. Place individual tubers in paper bags or wrap in newspaper. Store begonia tubers individually in paper bags or place them in a single layer on newspaper. Place the tubers in a box and store the box in a cool, dark, dry place over the winter.

Move non-tuber begonias indoors. Repot or spray with insecticidal soap to prevent pests from entering your home. Place the container in front of a window on the east, south, or west side of your home. Keep the pot away from hot air nozzles. In the winter months, indoor lighting levels in north-facing windows are too low. Use grow lights to provide adequate light.

Begonias are ideal houseplants – they add beautiful color and are forgiving of neglect

Begonias offer something for everyone. Looking for a long floral display? There are begonias with large, lush, bright flowers in shades of scarlet, orange or lemon. You will also find small, delicate flowers in delicate blush or pure white. Do you prefer a tapestry of richly colored and textured foliage? There’s a begonia for that, too.

You may be familiar with begonias from your outdoor gardening, but these diverse plants can add a new dimension to the indoor experience as well. Begonias prefer low light and shine where other plants struggle. They forgive neglect and tolerate forgetful gardeners, storing water in their stems to survive periods of drought.

story

Begonia is a genus of over 1,000 species native to tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. They were discovered in 1690 by a Franciscan friar, Charles Plumier, while on an expedition in the Brazilian rainforest in search of medicinal plants. He named it after his patron Michel Begon, an amateur botanist who was also the governor of Haiti.

Plumier died shortly after his discovery, and begonias did not reappear in horticultural circles until the mid-18th century—and then quite by accident. Some were inadvertently spread to Europe in soil samples shipped from Brazil to the Berlin Botanical Garden in 1821. Others were inadvertently mixed with orchids shipped to England from India in 1856.

Eventually, Richard Pierce discovered new species of begonia in unusual shades of yellow, red and orange in the Andes, fueling interest in these spectacular plants. Botanists began crossing and hybridizing begonias in earnest to create the variety of colors, textures, and sizes that we enjoy today.

Types of Begonias

There are three types of begonias based on their root structure – fibrous, rhizomatous and bulbous. In general, fibrous and rhizome begonias are the best houseplants. Tuberous begonias can also be grown indoors, but are best suited as temporary bloomers rather than long-term indoor accents, as their growth cycle includes a dormant period during which both flowers and foliage die back.

Fibrous begonias are prized for their charming year-round blooms. Angel wing and cane begonias are the best known for indoor use, and wax begonias (Semperflorens) are essential for the summer garden.

Begonias are prized for both their spectacular foliage and their flowers

Rhizome-like begonias are ideal for someone looking for decorative color schemes and intricately shaped silhouettes. With rhizome-like begonias, their delicate blooms are almost an afterthought! Among the most popular rhizome-like begonias is the Rex begonia, which features an almost endless variety of mottled, painted, swirled, puckered, and scalloped foliage in shades of green, chartreuse, mauve, merlot, white, and almost black.

Bulbous begonias are for those who love tropical colors. They produce spectacular flowers ranging from luscious ½ inch blooms to luscious plate sized flowers. Among bulbous begonias, Rieger begonias are a favorite for brightening up a room or adding pizzazz to a party.

care tips

After coming home with your new begonia, you may be wondering, “Now what? “Whether you’re growing begonias for the flowers or the foliage, with a little know-how you can keep them looking their best.

Light: Begonias prefer bright but diffused light. Place them near a sunny window or under a lamp. Direct sunlight will scorch their leaves.

Water: Don’t overwater your begonias – they like consistently moist soil, but moist soil is good for them. Always check the soil before watering, and when it feels dry to the touch ½ to 1 inch below the surface, slowly pour water over the surface until it runs out of the holes in the bottom of your pot. Leave for about half an hour and repeat the process – discard any water that has collected in the plant saucer or decorative outdoor pot.

Moisture: Begonias thrive on moisture! If the air in your home is dry, mist your plants daily or try a humidifier. Another option is to place your begonia on a pebble tray to keep the surrounding air moist (see sidebar).

Fertilizer: Apply fertilizer regularly when plants are actively growing and producing new leaves and/or flowers. Look for a fertilizer labeled specifically for begonias and follow package directions for application amounts and frequency. If you decide to use an all-purpose houseplant product, you can dilute it to a quarter of the strength for gentler feeding.

Care: Flowering begonias often bloom continuously for months, so be sure to remove wilted flowers and dead leaves to keep the plants looking their best. If you have a Rex begonia, remove the small flower buds as soon as they emerge so the plant can focus its energy on the foliage. When Rieger begonias stop producing new flower buds, prune them to encourage fresh new growth and another round of blooms.

repot

Begonias add tropical color with lush blooms that last for months

The best way to keep begonias happy and healthy is to grow them in relatively small pots. You’ll know it’s time to repot when roots fill up the container and plants begin to dry out more frequently. When choosing a new pot, keep in mind that a pot that is too big can cause root problems and cause you to lose your plant. Look for a container that is only an inch wider than the current one. It can be the same height as the current container or up to 2.5 cm lower.

After transplanting your begonia to its new container, fill in the voids with a good quality soilless potting mix made from peat moss and perlite or vermiculite. This mix provides your begonia with an ideal balance of good drainage and moisture retention.

During summer…

Consider giving your indoor begonias a summer vacation in the garden. The fresh air and brighter light will rejuvenate your plants and stimulate growth. If temperatures are consistently above 55 degrees Fahrenheit, move your potted plants to a shady spot in the garden. Initially they should not get any direct sunlight at all, but over the course of a few weeks you can gradually introduce some morning sun or dappled light under an open canopy tree. To prevent plants from drowning in rainy weather, remove any plant saucers or ornamental pots without drainage.

When it gets colder in the fall, it’s time to bring the plants back inside. Prune the plants back a bit to shape them up and examine them carefully for signs of pests or disease. Treat any symptoms before you bring them in.

Rieger Begonias go dormant when the weather gets too hot, but moving them outdoors to a cool, shady spot can extend their blooming season. Prune plants occasionally to stimulate new flower buds and prevent or delay dormancy. When your Rieger Begonias begin to die, they are most likely entering their dormant phase. Either discard the plants or cut them back to the ground and place the pot in a cool, dark place such as a basement or root cellar. Bring them out when their days are getting shorter in the fall, watering them well to wake them up and then only as needed while you wait for new growth to resume.

Troubleshooting

Begonias are easy to grow and relatively unforgiving, but problems do sometimes arise, the most common of which are light and water related. Too much or too little water stresses the plant and makes it more susceptible to insects and diseases. Too much light can scorch the plant and too little light will stunt growth.

If your plant is wilting or dropping leaves, it’s probably not getting enough moisture. Check the soil regularly and increase watering as needed.

Faded, deformed, or discolored foliage is a sign of nutrient problems. Chances are that you are either over-feeding or under-feeding your begonia. If you’re not using a fertilizer for begonias, try switching to one and follow the product directions carefully. This is said to help improve soil and nutrient quality.

If your plant is sunburned or scorched, it will suffer from too much light; Move your plant to a place where it is better protected from direct sunlight.

If your plant looks sparse, scrawny, or flowering is reduced, it may be due to poor lighting. Try moving your begonia to a brighter spot or supplementing it with plant lights.

When it comes to gorgeous foliage, you can’t go wrong with Rex begonias. These light-leaved begonias don’t bloom very spectacularly, but are highly valued for their variety of leaf shapes and colors. Though caring for Begonia rex can be a bit of a challenge, its showy foliage makes it worth a try.

Read on for everything you need to know about Begonia rex care and growing Rex begonias in your own home.

Name(s) (general, scientific) Rex Begonia, Variegated Begonia, Variegated Begonia, Ornamental Begonia, Royal Begonia, Begonia rex Difficulty Moderate Recommended Lighting Indirect Water Water evenly Soil Type Well-draining

Rex Begonia natural habitat

This popular houseplant is naturally found in Asia.

Here it is part of the undergrowth in forest areas in India, China and Vietnam.

Begonia rex Care: Light, Location & Temperature

light

Rex begonias are not too picky when it comes to light. They are an undergrowth species, however, so remember not to subject them to too much direct sun!

Keep them in a place that gets bright, indirect light, or under fluorescent lights.

location

Like many houseplants, Rex begonias appreciate a moist environment that’s not always easy to provide. In terms of location, these plants could appreciate being placed in the bathroom. The air here can be a little more humid than the rest of your home.

As explained further below, you can try a plant terrarium if you are interested in growing these begonias but are concerned that the humidity levels in your home are too low.

temperature

Rex begonias thrive best in a relatively warm environment. Room temperature is good for them. In fact, they can stop growing or even go dormant and drop all their leaves when temperatures are too low (especially in autumn/winter).

That means it’s a good idea to keep this species away from cool windows if you want them to keep their beautiful foliage year-round.

Did you know? There are countless different varieties of Begonia rex, each with unique leaf colors, shapes, and patterns. Look for beautiful varieties like the spiral-leaved ‘Escargot’, the maroon ‘Red Robin’ or the almost silvery ‘Arctic Breeze’. Seriously, you can collect these guys for the rest of your life and never finish!

Begonia rex Care: Soil & Planting

floor

When choosing soil for planting a Rex Begonia, keep in mind that these plants appreciate a very humid environment but really don’t like excess water in their planter.

This means that a well-draining, loose soil type is a good idea. Regular potting soil should work well as a base. Adding lots of perlite will help achieve a proper mix and keep things from getting too muddy.

Plant

Try a relatively shallow, wide pot (with a drainage hole!). This is usually recommended for Rex Begonias as their rhizome grows horizontally and requires some space. Due to their high moisture requirements, it can also make sense to plant them in a terrarium. Don’t worry: this can be something as simple as an old fish tank or even a large storage jar.

You can repot your Begonia rex in the spring when it has outgrown its container (when the rhizomes begin to touch the sides of the pot).

Begonia rex care: watering

Rex begonias are notorious for being a bit fussy about watering, which ails many houseplant lovers. They appreciate moisture and some degree of moisture, but do not respond well to excessive amounts of water at all.

Watering schedules should always be based on the amount of light a plant is receiving, so we can’t tell you exactly how often you’ll need to water. However, a good basic guideline is to wait until the top of the soil has dried out. Better to wait a little too long than water too often. Never let the ground get soaked!

If your begonia has lost its leaves and is dormant, adjust your watering schedule accordingly, reducing both the amount and frequency.

Begonia rex care: fertilizer

You can feed rex begonias about every two weeks with a diluted, regularly balanced houseplant fertilizer during the growing season (spring through fall).

Do not fertilize houseplants during the winter months: they are not usually actively growing. This means that their roots cannot absorb the fertilizer and could suffer damage instead.

Propagation of Begonia rex

Rex begonias are not difficult to divide and propagate, which is handy since individual plants don’t usually live very long lives. By dividing/propagating plants, you can enjoy them for years to come.

The easiest way to turn a Rex Begonia into two (or more) Rex Begonias is to split the rhizome. You can do this when repotting the plant or at any other time (although it will be slower in winter). All you have to do is pull apart the rhizomes and transplant them all into their own containers.

Tip: Rex begonias can also be propagated with stem and leaf cuttings. If you want to learn more about the different ways to propagate this species, take a look at the complete begonia propagation guide.

Buy Rex Begonia

Rex begonias are popular houseplants and you should be able to find them at most plant stores and garden centers. Keep in mind that with so many different varieties, they may not always be named appropriately.

Here you can also buy Rex begonias online!

Is Begonia rex toxic to cats and dogs?

The ASPCA lists Rex begonias as toxic to cats and dogs. Pity! Why not check out the list of cat-safe plants instead?

If you have any other questions about Begonia rex care or would like to share your experiences with this colorful plant, don’t hesitate to leave a comment below!

Item photos from our Dutch sister webshop Second Green.

Common Name Rex Begonia Botanical Name Begonia rex-cultorum Family Begoniaceae Plant Type Perennial Mature Size 12-18 inches tall, similar spread Sun Exposure Partial shade to full shade Soil Type Porous soil pH 5.7-6.2 (more acidic) Flowering Time Not grown for flowers Flower Color None grown for flowers Hardiness Zones 10-12 (USDA) Native Range Northeast India, southern China and Vietnam Toxicity Toxic to animals

Rex begonia care

Rex Begonia (Begonia rex-cultorum) is a semi-tropical perennial plant typically grown outdoors as a container plant or houseplant. The forms sold commercially are carefully cultivated varieties of the B. rex species native to parts of East Asia. When planted in the garden (a relatively rare occurrence), Rex Begonia is grown as an annual in all but the warmest climates.

Since these are primarily foliage plants, careful care is important to develop their full beauty. Use a porous potting soil in a relatively shallow pot, fertilize the plant regularly and keep the plant moist, but avoid overwatering.

Finding just the right conditions for the Rex Begonia to show off its best leaf color can be difficult. Ideal daytime temperatures are around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, nighttime temperatures around 60 degrees, and a constant humidity level of around 50 percent. Provide the plant with plenty of bright indirect sun, but keep it out of direct sunlight. Rotate the plant frequently to get even light from all sides.

The Spruce / Krystal Slagle

light

Rex begonias like bright, indirect light all year round. Not being aggressive bloomers, they tolerate less light than other begonias and thrive under fluorescent lights.

floor

Airy, light, fast-draining soil is best for rex begonias.

water

Rex begonias require regular watering, but be careful not to overwater them. They thrive on moisture, but be careful when spraying the leaves lest they remain too wet and encourage powdery mildew. Allow the soil surface to dry before watering. But do not let the soil get too dry, otherwise the plant will begin to wither. The soil should be watered until it feels lightly but evenly moist.

temperature and humidity

Rex begonias thrive best in moderate temperatures (60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit) and moderately high humidity (about 50 percent). Growth slows in freezing temperatures and some species of begonias go into a dormant period in winter due to lack of light. As with other begonias, rex and other deciduous begonias prefer the same moist, mellow environment that understory ferns thrive in.

fertilizer

Use quarter strength liquid fertilizer weekly or half strength every two weeks.

Types of Rex begonias

Begonia rex is the basis for many hundreds of hybrids, and their forms are too numerous to count. The resulting hybrids are often only known commercially under the fancy trade names used to market the plants. As a result, you may find that the same hybrids have different names at different garden centers.

Another interesting and beautiful begonia is B. masoniana, also known as Iron Cross Begonia. Introduced to cultivation in 1952, this beautiful plant has ruffled leaves with a dark cross in the center. It is available in different colors.

Propagation of Rex Begonia

The vast majority of commercially available begonias are hybrids, so they cannot exactly be propagated from seed. Rhizomatous begonias such as the Rex begonia can easily be propagated by dividing the rhizomes when repotting. Almost all begonia species sprout easily from leaf tip cuttings. A rooting hormone can help the cuttings germinate.

Rex begonias can also be propagated by attaching a leaf to the litter mix and making small incisions in the veins of the leaf, or by sticking a leaf (with petiole) directly into the soil. The petiole is the stalk that attaches the leaf blade to the plant stem.

Potting and repotting Rex begonias

Rex Begonias are rhizome-like plants that grow from a flat and knobby rhizome. As such, they do best in large, relatively shallow pots that give the rhizome room to spread out. If the rhizome still has room to grow in its pot, the begonia should be considered happily potted.

However, when the rhizome starts bumping up the sides of the pot, it’s time to transplant to a fresh pot with fresh soil. Divide the rhizome when repotting to increase your plant population. As with all begonias, do not soak the soil of newly potted plants, but keep slightly moist and warm.

Common pests and plant diseases

Mealybugs can be a problem. To prevent this, keep the plant well trimmed and remove dead leaves from the surface of the planting mix.

Rex begonias are often attacked by powdery mildew and botrytis fungal diseases. A systemic fungicide can help. Remove dead leaves promptly and ensure good air circulation.

Common problems with Rex begonias

You’ll notice when your beautiful Rex Begonia’s leaves begin to wilt, which is one of their most common problems. In addition to a pest infestation, there can be other reasons for the wilting of the leaves, including the following:

The soil is too dry or too wet.

The soil does not drain enough.

The plant needs more light, but not intense light.

Humidity is too low (but do not spray the plant as Rex begonias do not like wet foliage).

Begonias are as beautiful as they are versatile. With flowers and foliage that work just as well in hanging baskets, porch pots, or garden beds, they’re a workhorse of the gardening world! Most of us think of their luscious, tropical-looking flowers when we picture begonias. However, the species that people keep indoors as houseplants aren’t quite the same as those with the showy flowers that thrive outside.

Begonias fall into three main types with many subcategories and over 1,000 species worldwide. They are mainly classified according to their root system, either bulbous, fibrous or rhizomatous. Fibrous and rhizome begonias are usually the easiest to grow indoors. They have showy leaves but less prominent flowers. Bulbous begonias are the ones with the large, showy flowers that do best outdoors.

If you’re keen to enjoy fibrous or rhizome begonias as a houseplant, it’s always best to review the care needs of the specific strain you have your eye on. In general, however, you can follow these rules of thumb for caring for these colorful, elegant, and low-maintenance plants in the home!

Best location for begonias in your home

All begonias need bright, indirect light. This means indoor strains prefer a spot near a large window with a sheer curtain to protect them from direct sunlight. Direct sun can burn their leaves. However, the lighting conditions inside our homes are drastically reduced compared to outside, so they don’t look good even in a dark corner.

In the winter, you may need to provide supplemental light from a lamp with a full-spectrum bulb for about 14 hours a day.

Begonias like constant temperatures between 60-70°, so keep them away from draughty doors and windows.

Moisture & Water for Begonias

Begonias are native to places with high humidity, so they don’t push water to the edges of their leaves as much as other plants. This property makes them ideal for terrariums. The drier prairie air here in Iowa can be a challenge for moisture-loving plants, especially during the colder months. If the air is dry, provide a gravel tray under the pot or a humidifier nearby.

The best way to know when to water your begonia is to check the soil with your finger every few days. Begonias like evenly moist soil, but they prefer to dry out just a bit between waterings. Stick your finger in the soil up to the first knuckle – when it’s dry, water it. When watering your begonia, opt for distilled water or rainwater whenever possible, as the plant can be sensitive to the salts dissolved in tap water. This sensitivity can cause some leaf browning, which is not usually fatal to the plant but can affect the appearance of your begonias.

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Make sure your begonias have adequate drainage so their roots are never standing in standing water. Soggy roots drop leaves and can make them susceptible to root rot, pests, and other diseases. If there is still water in the drip tray 30 minutes after watering, empty it.

Apply fertilizer according to package directions when your plant is actively growing, which is usually during the summer months.

When to repot your begonia

Begonias prefer to be root bound, so don’t put them in a big pot! If the soil stays moist for several days after watering, you may need to repot a pot size. When bringing home a new begonia, only move it to a larger pot if it is already root bound in its nursery pot. If it’s not already root bound, place it in a pot that’s the same size as the nursery pot.

Whichever variety you choose, begonias make excellent houseplants with an incredible ability to recover from the brink of death. We’ve often been shocked at just how hardy and adaptable these delicate looking plants really are! With a little care and a good location, your begonia will thrive for many years.

If you’re looking for a plant that will add robust color to interiors, look no further than the flamboyant Rex Begonia (Begonia rex-cultorum). The vibrant foliage more than makes up for the plant’s insignificant floral display. Though considered difficult by some, with proper care, your Rex Begonias should thrive and show off their colorful display for years to come. Read on as we unravel the care of the rex begonia indoors.

A little story about the Rex Begonia

Although a Franciscan friar in Brazil made the first documented discovery of fiber begonias in 1690, the discovery of the rex begonia was almost accidental.

In 1856, while shipping orchids to England, someone noticed an exotic and mysterious plant with ornate leaves growing from one of the orchid’s feet. Such was the first documented discovery of Rex begonias.

Somewhat later, other cultivars of Rex Begonias were found in the Andes, including those with leaf hues of orange, yellow, and red. From then to now, Rex Begonias continue to brighten interiors with their stunning displays of patterned foliage.

Basic Description of Rex Begonias

Rex begonias are classified as flower begonias because of their ornate foliage. Although plants produce attractive pink and white winter flowers, the blooms are small and considered insignificant compared to their showy foliage.

growth habit

Depending on the cultivar (the botanical name for a particular cultivar), Rex begonias average between 12 inches and nearly 24 inches tall, and are of a similar width when fully grown. They have a clumping and rounded habit and their foliage grows densely together, giving the plant density.

Rex Begonia foliage is the main attraction

One look at the foliage and it’s easy to see why they’re known as the “kings” of the begonia world. The size of the leaves varies by variety but averages about 6 inches long and 4 to 5 inches wide.

There are too many different cultivars to count and a multitude of different leaf shapes and colors. One look at any online plant catalogue, you are sure to find a Rex, or maybe several, which are a must have. Leaves form from rhizomes and have characteristics such as unique veining, ripples and ripples, with spots, spots, stripes or margins of a variety of different hues.

The colors of the different types of Rex begonias include blends of green, silver, white, red and pink, maroon, purple, yellow and orange. Many species have a silvery or metallic sheen across the leaves, adding even more interest.

Rex begonias can be grown indoors or outdoors

In their natural habitat, Rex begonias are undergrowth plants in shady to partially shaded areas of the jungle and are considered tropical and subtropical plants. Although it’s doubtful you’ll have a “jungle environment” in your own backyard, those who live in frost-free locations can grow the begonia outdoors.

Even if you aren’t lucky enough to live in an area where winters are mild, you can still put rex begonias outside during the warm season and bring them inside when old man Winter comes to visit.

If you want to give your Rex begonia a break from the house, simply place it outside in a shady to partially shaded spot and care for it as usual. They are attractive, showy plants to decorate mixed containers, hanging baskets and placed in an entryway, covered porch or patio area, balcony or roof garden, and even used in a shady garden in the landscape.

Rex Begonias bring their flamboyant star appeal to outdoor areas where many flowering plants will not thrive, and are sure to steal the show wherever you decide to place and grow them. Just water them regularly.

Choosing Containers and Soil for Growing Rex Begonias Indoors

The steps for transplanting Rex begonias from their nursery container to a more permanent container are relatively simple. However, there are some aspects you need to consider when choosing a container and growing medium so you can be sure of having happy plants thriving in your home.

Pots or hanging baskets made of any material work well as long as there are drainage holes at the bottom. Potting in containers that don’t have a drain encourages root rot and eventual plant death.

Note that soil in ceramic or terracotta pots will dry out faster than soil in plastic pots. Therefore, the begonia needs to be watered more often.

Transplant into a container one to two sizes larger than the container the rex begonia is currently growing in.

When it comes to soil, any peat-based potting soil that is light and well-drained will do well. You can also use an all-purpose soil mix if you can’t find a peat-based mix.

Expert Tip: Don’t use potting soil as it is heavier than potting soil, tends to hold too much water and does not have good aeration, which means the rex begonia may develop root rot.

Rex Begonia planting steps

Once you’ve chosen the Rex Begonia you want, a suitable pot, and soil, the next fun part comes – planting. This is the first important step in care that will ensure your begonia has the best start.

When potting your Rex Begonia, it is important to remember not to “handle” it, as the root system is very delicate and delicate. Treat it like you are holding a newborn baby, especially when you take it out of its original container and place it in the new one.

Fill the container about a quarter full with potting soil and water to settle the soil. Make a small indentation in the middle. Carefully remove the Rex Begonia from its nursery pot, treat the root system gently and place in the center of the new container. Fill the rest of the container with the potting soil, tightening it gently around the begonia, being careful not to plant deeper than it grew in its nursery pot. Water the container’s soil again and until it runs out of the bottom drainage holes.

Rex Begonia care video

In this video you will learn everything you need to know about growing Begonia Rex houseplants. I cover all the essential tips you need to keep your plants healthy and how to deal with common problems. I also share my experiences of growing two of my favorite Begonia Rex strains.

How many Rex begonias per pot?

If you are creating a mixed container garden or planning to plant multiple Rex begonias together, there are a few considerations you need to make to ensure their continued health.

All types of Rex begonias, with proper care and growing conditions, will mature into dense plants. Keep in mind that some species grow to nearly 24 inches across. Therefore, do not overcrowd the plants as this will make the begonia prone to disease problems due to the lack of air circulation.

Sticking to one Rex begonia per pot is probably the healthiest option and reduces the possibility of overcrowding. However, if you’re growing smaller varieties, mixing begonias with plants that have more of a slender, upright habit, like certain palms or dracaenas, or using a 3-gallon or larger container, planting several together will work.

Expert tip: When choosing companion plants that will grow well with Rex begonias, be sure to select those that require the same growing conditions of cooler temperatures and moist soil. In addition, use plants with a slow to moderately slow growth, as fast-growing species quickly overtake and displace the begonia.

The basics of proper care for Rex begonias as houseplants

Now that you’ve taken the first step in caring for indoor Rex begonias – planting them properly – it’s time to embark on a program of ongoing care. Although they have a reputation for being difficult to get along with, your Rex should have few if any problems if you give them the care and conditions they prefer.

Rex Begonia lighting conditions

When considering the best location for your indoor Rex Begonias, you can safely place them by an east- or west-facing window and they will perform equally well. If you live in a place where spring and summer conditions are not extremely hot, you can also put them by a south-facing window.

Rotate the container weekly so all sides of the rex begonia receive the same amount of light.

If you lack enough natural light, Rex begonias also do well under fluorescent lighting, giving you more options in suitable indoor locations.

Expert tip: If the leaf edges turn brown and look burnt, the Rex begonia is too close to the window. If it starts to get long and lanky and stretches towards the light, it’s not getting enough sunlight.

Indoor Temperature for Rex Begonia Houseplants

Rex begonias thrive best when indoor temperatures are between 65°F and 84°F. They stop growing when temperatures drop below 50°F (14.4°C).

How to water a Rex Begonia indoors

Knowing when to water your Rex begonia is easy, although you will likely need to water weekly, especially during the growing season. Look at the soil of the container and when the top has just dried, pour water until it runs out of the bottom drainage holes of the pot. Don’t keep the soil too moist, however, or rot can occur, and don’t let the soil get so dry that the rex begonia will wilt.

If you use a trivet under the pot to catch the water, empty it after the container is completely empty. You can also fill the saucer with small pebbles and set the pot on top as this will lift it out of the wet conditions.

Try to apply the water only to the soil and keep it off the leaves, which will reduce disease problems. Watering early in the day gives the foliage time to dry before dark.

In winter, when the Rex begonia is not actively growing, reduce watering to about every two to three weeks.

Is humidity important for Rex begonias indoors?

Probably one of the biggest problems with growing Rex Begonias indoors is making sure you create humid conditions for them. They are true drama queens when they can’t get enough and thrive.

Unless the humidity in your home is already above average, you will need to increase the humidity manually. I covered 10 great ways to increase humidity in another article.

Signs that the Rex begonia is not getting enough moisture are burnt, brown spots on the leaf edges.

How do I fertilize a Rex Begonia houseplant?

Once the rex begonia starts growing again in spring, fertilize with a water-soluble, all-purpose houseplant fertilizer, applied at quarter strength. Reapply every two weeks while the plant is actively growing.

You can also use an all-purpose, slow-release formula that is applied every three months.

Stop fertilizing in the fall or early winter when the rex begonia is dormant (when its growth is slowing).

Expert tip: Flush the soil of the container with fresh water about every three to four months. This washes out any salt deposits that may be building up in the soil from the fertilizer.

circumcision needs

Rex begonias require minimal pruning unless long, bare stems need pruning or you want to create a fuller plant. Simply trim the stem back to the base with clean pruning shears and the remaining portion should sprout new leaves and stems. Pinching the tops on younger plants also helps them become fuller.

Indoor pest and disease control

Well cared for Rex begonias are usually only bothered by a few problems and keeping fallen leaf debris clean, making sure they get adequate air circulation and proper watering goes a long way towards prevention.

Mealy bugs

When indoor conditions are warm, rex begonias are susceptible to a mealybug infestation. It’s easy to identify a problem with these sap suckers, as they leave a cotton-like mass where the stems connect. To control an outbreak, simply soak a cotton ball, cotton swab, or artist brush in alcohol and blot the mealybugs off the plant. You can also spray the entire begonia with alcohol, being careful not to spray the soil.

root rot

If the soil is kept too moist, root rot can develop in rex begonias. Signs of a problem usually show up first at the base of the plant, where black, squishy lesions develop on the lower leaves and stems. It is best to discard the plant and start over with a healthy plant. Prevention is as simple as following a proper watering schedule and only watering when the top of the soil is dry.

Botrytis leaf blight

Leaf blight affects the lower leaves that are in contact with the ground and presents as water-soaked, dark lesions that develop and grow larger over time. The problem is most common when nighttime conditions are cool, daytime conditions are warm, soil is too wet, and foliage is damp.

Prevent the problem by following a correct watering schedule, avoiding getting water on the leaves, and watering early in the day to allow the foliage to dry before dark.

You can also treat the problem with a homemade fungicide consisting of 1 tablespoon baking soda, 1 small squirt of non-degreasing dish soap (helps the product stick to the begonia) in a quart of water. Shake well and spray the rex begonia.

powdery mildew

Powdery mildew is another common fungal problem that can affect Rex begonias, especially if the soil is kept too moist and the foliage gets wet. Signs of a problem show up as a white, powdery substance covering the leaves.

Control the problem by removing infected leaves, watering properly, and not wetting the foliage. You can also treat the fungus by spraying it with the homemade baking soda fungicide mix detailed in the Botrytis section above.

A note of caution when caring for indoor Rex begonias

Although Rex Begonias are sure to add an exotic and tropical touch to your indoor spaces, use caution when deciding where to place them. The plant contains soluble calcium oxalates that are toxic to cats and dogs. Problems associated with ingesting the plant, especially the underground parts, include kidney failure, drooling, and vomiting. Choose a place out of the reach of children and your pets.

Whether you prefer flowers or foliage, there is a type of begonia for every houseplant lover. Collecting them all can be addicting! If you’re spreading the love of begonia or just want to add to your own collection, you’ll be glad to know that most begonias are super easy to propagate.

Read on for everything you need to know about begonia propagation and how to make one plant many for free.

Note: Don’t feel like propagating or are you yet to start your begonia collection? You can buy a ton of different strains online. How about the polka dot begonia, one of the many colorful Rex begonia, a beefsteak begonia, or even a spiral-leaved variety?

© bozhena_melnyk on Adobe Stock.

Taking a begonia cutting

There are several ways to take a cutting from your begonia to use as a starter for new plants. There’s the usual method of cutting off a piece of the plant and re-rooting, but did you know that begonias are one of those plants that can propagate with just a piece of a single leaf?

Let’s dive into the different ways to take a begonia cutting.

Taking a stem cutting is probably the most well-known way of propagating a houseplant. Many of the houseplant begonias have tubular stems from which leaves sprout.

The plant will regrow from stems very easily, so if you snip off an inch or two with some leaves like in the picture below, you’re set for success. It doesn’t have to be the top of the stem: any piece 2″ or larger will work.

Cutting a leaf is a technique quite unique to begonias. Simply cut off a healthy, large leaf where it meets the petiole.

Cutting a rhizome is similar to cutting a stem, except you don’t even necessarily include leaves. Rhizomatous begonias regrow so easily that you can cut a rhizome into 2-inch pieces; As long as the parts have growth nodes, they can grow leaves and roots.

Did you know? Some indoor gardeners have kept their heirloom begonia alive for decades by propagating from an original mother plant!

How to propagate begonia from cuttings

water spread

If you have decided to take cuttings from your Begonia, propagation will be a breeze. My favorite method is aquatic propagation as I like the look of pretty vases with plants growing in them. There are many special propagation kits that make propagation beautiful!

To propagate your begonia in water, all you have to do is partially submerge the stem in water and let the leaves stick out. Then place the vase or jar containing the plant in a light and warm spot to create the perfect growing conditions. Avoid full sun as water can heat up quickly in a clear container and begonias aren’t a fan of it anyway.

After a few days or weeks (depending on the time of year and circumstances), your begonia cuttings will have developed a root system and may even have sprouted new leaves. Congratulations!

Use some light but rich soil (a peat moss based mixed with perlite works well) to pot the new plants and keep them slightly moist. They might be a bit cranky about moving into soil, but should keep growing after a short acclimatization period.

propagation in the soil

Soil propagation is preferred by some because it eliminates the possibility that the susceptible mini plants will have trouble adapting to the soil after being in water.

To propagate this way, simply fill a few small pots with the same light but rich soil and insert the cuttings about halfway into them. Keep the soil very slightly moist. Voila!

You can’t see if the cuttings are rooting successfully, so you may not know if they’re doing well for the first few weeks. It’s normal for the leaves to go a bit limp as the stem tries to push out a root system. No fear! As soon as you see the first leaf growth, you know that your propagation attempt was successful.

How to propagate begonia from the leaf

whole leaf

If you have decided to propagate your begonia with leaves, which is possible with most begonias grown as houseplants, using a plastic seedling tray is the easiest option. The resulting plants will be very small at first.

It is easiest to use the leaves whole. Locate the petiole: it’s the part where the leaf connects to its petiole. Dip that in rooting hormone if you have it on hand.

Tuck the leaf into the soil so that the petiole is covered but not the rest, or alternatively, pin the leaf so the petiole is touching the soil but not buried. If you choose the latter, you can even make tiny cuts/notches in each leaf vein to encourage new growth in multiple locations rather than just the petiole.

Once your leaves are ready, they can be moved to a bright and warm windowsill or even to a germination station (covered mini greenhouse for seed initiation). Then just be patient while keeping the soil slightly moist. A tiny version of the mother plant should emerge from the petiole tip, drawing nutrients from both the leaf and its own tiny root system.

partial leaves

If you really want to take things to the next level, you can actually split a single begonia leaf into pieces, all of which can be used to grow new plants. This is probably a good option if the mother plant doesn’t have a lot of leaves to pick from.

Take a clean knife and cut the leaf into pieces, each containing part of the leaf vein. Then simply follow the instructions above and you should end up with lots of new mini begonias!

Begonia propagation from rhizome

If you have decided to use the rhizome method, prepare a seedling tray as described in the previous paragraph. All you have to do is lay the rhizome piece horizontally on the soil and give them a good nudge so they are about half covered.

That’s it! The bottom half of the rhizome section will sprout roots while the top half will sprout new leaves, creating a whole new little plant.

Recently propagated Begonia rhizome cuttings.

Growing begonia from seed

Begonias can be grown from seed at home and it’s a popular way to propagate some species, particularly the outdoor varieties grown for their flowers. It can be a bit tricky, especially if the seeds you get aren’t pelleted: they’re extremely small.

The upside is that it’s a cheap, fun project, and you might be able to get seeds for species you’d normally have a hard time finding. Begonia seeds can be bought online.

To start your Begonia seeds, use sterile soil in a seedling tray and simply sprinkle the seeds on top. You can easily push them into the ground, but don’t bury them. Place the tray in a humidity station to keep things warm and humid, preferably under fluorescent lights. Water carefully to avoid spilling the seeds everywhere; Fogging is probably the best option here. Be patient as it can take quite a while for begonias to germinate and start growing.

Because begonia seeds are so difficult to place correctly, you must carefully separate them and transplant them once they have some leaf growth.

If you have any other questions about begonia propagation, or would like to share your own experiences with this wonderfully diverse genus of houseplants, don’t hesitate to leave a comment below! 🌿

Rex Begonias are admired for their fabulous foliage. The variety offers a wide range of colors, textures and shapes. Its leaves can vary in shape – from hearts to swirls of shells to ivy-like shapes and more. Characterized by dramatic colors — often a mix of green, pink, or burgundy — the Rex begonia can also include metallic shades of gray silver. Always stunning to look at! Native to tropical regions, Rex begonias are good-natured houseplants—they’re as easy on the eyes as they are easy on the eyes.

General care

sunlight

Moderate to bright indirect light.

water

Water weekly, allowing the top inches of soil to dry out between waterings.

humidity

Tolerates dry air, but prefers high humidity. Avoid fogging, which can cause problems with powdery mildew.

temperature

Average house temperature of 65°F-75°F. If you’re comfortable, the rex begonia will be comfortable.

size

A well cared for Rex Begonia will produce leaves up to 6 inches long

General problems

SYMPTOM: Wrinkling, shedding and leaf rot

CAUSE: Overhydration

SYMPTOM: Leaves too soft

CAUSE: Under water

SYMPTOM: Fluffy blobs in leaf crumbs

CAUSE: Meal bugs; remove with alcohol-soaked cotton swabs.

SYMPTOM: White powdery spots on leaves

CAUSE: Powdery mildew; Remove affected leaves and increase air circulation around the plant.

Precautions

Toxic to cats and dogs if ingested.

If swallowed, please contact your veterinarian.

Best practice is always to keep houseplants out of the reach of small children and pets.

Questions? Email to help@thesill

Begonia rex should be watered when the soil or pot feels dry, but don’t wait until the plant starts to wilt. During hibernation you can reduce the water and only water when the pot dries up. Moisture is crucial to keeping your Rex begonia happy, but spraying the leaves can cause spotting. It’s better to group your plants so they can create their own humid environment or use a gravel tray.

More information on black foliage plants

Black leafy plants bring something mysterious to the garden. Plants that produce large amounts of purple, brown, or maroon pigment have leaves that are so dark they appear black. Black-leaved plants are popular with garden designers because they stand out against a green background and make excellent color companions for white, yellow, or other light-colored plants.

Examples of Black Leaf plants

Certain groups of perennials are particularly known for their black foliage, including Dahlia, Oxalis, Canna, Colocasia, Ophiopogon planiscapus, and Ajuga.

Use of black-leaved plants in the landscape

We love combining black foliage plants with silver foliage plants like euphorbia, artemisia, brunnera and pulmonaria. The combination of silver on black is very striking. We also like to combine yellow flowering plants with black foliage plants to bring out both colors even more. Try some yellow flowering dahlia, farfugium, coreopsis or helianthus against a black elephant ear and you’ll see what we mean. What a combo!

When you are ready to buy black leafed plants for your garden, check out our online listing of black leafed plants for sale. Also take a look at our plants with black flowers.