Painted-Leaf Begonia
Begonia rex
Also known as
King Begonia, Fan Plant
Begonia rex-cultorum 1, Korkenzieher Begonie, Botanical Garden Heidelberg by Nemracc (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Partial Shade
Easy care
Moderate watering
Tender
H1b
RHS hardiness
10°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
|---|---|---|
50cm | Max | 50cm |
10cm | Min | 10cm |
3 years to reach maturity
Flowering
-
spring
-
summer
-
autumn
-
winter
More images of Painted-Leaf Begonia
Painted-Leaf Begonia Overview
Begonia rex lies in the Rex Cultorum Horticultural Group. This grouping contains rhizomatous hybrids and cultivars with attractive leaf colourations, that have been bred from the species Begonia rex. Begonia rex plants typically grows to around 30 cm tall, producing large, oval foliage coloured metallic green with attractive silver markings on the upper surface and red colouration on the undersides. Originating from Northern India, this plant produces stunning pink flowers, and is commonly grown indoors as a houseplant due to its striking foliage. Many hybrids and cultivars have been bred from this species, in a huge range of colourations.
Common problems with Painted-Leaf Begonia
A simple cure for some of these insects is to spray the affected areas with a little dishwashing liquid, mixed with water, in a spray bottle (make routine sprays if the pests are persistent). Prevent powdery mildew by spraying with a registered fungicide.
How to harvest Painted-Leaf Begonia
Generally not harvested.
How to propagate Painted-Leaf Begonia
Cuttings
Leaf cuttings: cut a healthy leaf in early summer. Starting at the base of the leaf and using the veins as a guide, cut the leaf into triangular sections, ensuring the central veins stay intact. Insert the tip of each section into compost, ensuring the main vein is in contact with the growing medium and the leaf is upright. Keep covered and place on a bright windowsill where the temperature remains between 16 to 27°C. Roots should appear within two months. Take softwood cuttings of about 10 cm and root in a glass of water.
Rhizomes
Divide Begonia rhizomes in early spring just as the plant starts to put on more growth. Make sure each section has one or more growing points and replant straight away.
Seed
Sow seeds of species at 21C as soon as they are ripe.
Special features of Painted-Leaf Begonia
Attractive flowers
Attractive leaves
Attractive, brightly coloured foliage.
Indoor plant
Pot plant
Other uses of Painted-Leaf Begonia
Indoor plant. Hanging baskets.