Fancy-leafed Begonia, Painted-leaf Begonia, Rex Begonia, and Iron Cross

Rex Begonia, other species or hybrids

A Rex Begonia plant is grown for its large colorful leaves rather than its small pink flowers. Their leaves come in a variety of shapes, sizes, color combinations and patterns. These fancy-leafed begonias produce large leaves that are 6” long and 4-5” in width. Depending on the cultivar Rex Begonias average anywhere from 12” to almost 24” tall, with a similar width, when fully grown. They have a clumping and rounded growth habit and their foliage grows tightly packed together giving the plant density.

LIGHT

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Bright, indirect light or fluorescent light year-round.

WATER

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Water lightly yet frequently to keep soil constantly moist, but avoid overwatering. Never mist Begonia leaves because this causes spots to form and fungus to grow.

FERTILIZING

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Fertilize from Spring through Fall with a well-balanced houseplant fertilizer every 2 weeks. In the Winter, feed monthly unless they are dormant.

TIPS

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  • Rex Begonias grow well under fluorescent lights.
  • They require high humidity, but NEVER mist them. This will cause powdery mildew on the leaves.
  • Rex Begonias are highly toxic to dogs
    and cats.