Painted-leaf begonia - Begonia rex (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images)

Painted-leaf begonia

Also known as: Rex begonia

Painted-leaf begonia (Begonia rex) is a flowering perennial native to tropical climates in Central America and South America. Painted-leaf begonia is cultivated inside as a houseplant in temperate climates and grown outside in cooler climates.

Scientific classification

Species

Painted-leaf begonia (Begonia rex)

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Late spring, Summer, Early fall

Bloom Time

Late summer

Harvest Time

17 cm to 40 cm

Plant Height

50 cm

Spread

Green, Red, Variegated, Silver

Leaf Color

Brown

Fruit Color

Pink, White

Flower Color

Non-dormant

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Painted-leaf begonia

Distribution of Painted-leaf begonia

Distribution Map

Painted-leaf begonia is native to the shady jungle floors of India and much of China. This plant has also been introduced to Bangladesh and several Caribbean islands.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Undergrowth in forested areas

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Painted-leaf begonia is a popular plant grown for its impressive and colorful foliage. It is suited for both indoor and outdoor use. Outside, it prefers mild temperatures and to be brought inside if frost occurs. For this reason, growing it in a container in bright, indirect light is preferred.

Symbolism

Be cautious, be aware, fanciful nature, gratitude, respect

Interesting Facts

The wild painted-leaf begonia is the parent line to many cultivars known collectively as rex begonias, which tend to be categorized separately from other begonias. Their brightly colored leaves make them popular houseplants (but care must be taken since painted-leaf begonias are relatively toxic to cats and dogs).

Name Story

Painted-leaf begonia: It seems pretty obvious that the common name of the plant is originated from its palette-colored leaves. The leaves are large and multicolored with the outer edges appear in dark green color while the inner parts are featured with a mixture of pink and white appearance. Sometimes, shades of red, purple, bronze, black, silver may appear as well.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Painted-leaf begonia, including the following common varieties :

Begonia rex 'Silver Limbo'Begonia rex 'Salsa'Painted-leaf begonia 'Raspberry Swirl'

Toxicity

Begonias are moderately toxic to cats and dogs. Consuming the plant causes symptoms like salivation, oral sores, vomiting, and refusal to eat. The sap contains sharp crystals leading to irritation. Veterinary advice is recommended if symptoms worsen.

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Care Guide for Painted-leaf begonia

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Painted-leaf begonia thrives in humidity, resembling its tropical rainforest origins. It requires balanced weekly watering to maintain optimal moisture. As an evergreen, painted-leaf begonia retains water well year-round, making it suitable for indoor environments where humidity can be controlled.

Fertilize: For painted-leaf begonia, apply high nitrogen fertilizers to encourage foliage growth. Monthly feeding with a balanced, diluted solution during spring-summer, and bi-monthly in fall-winter, is recommended. Liquid feeds minimize root damage; adjust seasonal feeding to match painted-leaf begonia's growth cycle and avoid over-fertilization.

Pruning: Painted-leaf begonia flourishes with careful pruning, ideally performed in early to late spring. Remove dead leaves and leggy stems for bushier growth. Avoid excessive cuts to reduce stress. Regular pruning enhances aesthetics and promotes health, following horticultural guidelines for effective results.

Propagation: Painted-leaf begonia is an ornamental houseplant known for its striking foliage. Propagation involves leaf cuttings with a vein segment. After cutting and drying, place them in moistened peat and perlite. Maintain humidity and warmth for rooting, then transplant once roots and shoots develop.

Repotting: Repot painted-leaf begonia every 2-3 years in spring to encourage lush foliage. Use well-draining soil in a pot slightly larger than the previous one to prevent root rot. Regular watering without wetting leaves ensures a healthy recovery post-repotting.

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Images of Painted-leaf begonia

Distribution of Painted-leaf begonia

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Care Guide for Painted-leaf begonia

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