Rex Begonia Relationship Advice
Holly Berger, Anoka County Extension Master Gardener
Like many gardeners, I’m always falling for new plants, and I fell head-over-heels three years ago when I met ‘Escargot.’ With curled green and silver leaves swirling in snail-like spiral patterns, I was instantly enamored by this fun and unusual Begonia rex! I didn’t know then that Rex Begonias can be temperamental, but they are definitely worth the extra effort. You’re sure to find a new love with Rex Begonias, but you’ll have a healthier, happier relationship if you understand their needs. With more than 2,000 species and thousands more hybrids and cultivars, Begonias fall into four main types: cane, wax, tuberous, and rhizomatous. Rex Begonias are grown from rhizomes; they are native to subtropical regions of Southeast Asia.
Popular for their show-stopping foliage, Rex Begonias have thick, asymmetrical leaves that feature an astounding assortment of colors, patterns, and sizes. They are sometimes sold as annuals in Minnesota, but Rex Begonias also prosper as houseplants. Take heed that all Begonias are toxic to pets and humans if ingested.
Rex Begonias have a reputation for being the divas of Begonias, and I encountered some challenges while getting to know ‘Escargot.’ I eventually learned that Rex Begonias are good communicators if you’re paying attention -- if their leaves are wilting, crispy, brown, or leggy, it’s time for intervention. Here’s the advice I wish I’d gotten before I brought my rex home:
Moisture: Rex Begonias can be easily overwatered. They have very fragile root systems that will quickly succumb to rot if left soggy. They prefer evenly-moist soil, but wait until the top inch of soil is dry, and then water sparingly.
Drainage: They need pots with good drainage and should never sit in water. They also need light and airy potting soil, and some gardeners amend their soil with peat moss, perlite, or orchid bark.
Light: Whether indoors or out, Rex Begonias require bright, indirect light to flourish. Direct sun will scorch them.
Humidity: Rex Begonias do best with humid conditions. Indoors, use a humidifier, group plants together, or set them on trays of moistened pebbles (but always keep the roots dry). Leaf misting is generally not recommended, as wet leaves can lead to fungal diseases.
Fertilizing: Apply fertilizer every two to four weeks during spring and summer months. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength.
Temperature: Rex Begonias prefer stable temperatures between 60 to 80 degrees, and they dislike drafts. Outdoors, a patio or entrance will provide some wind protection.
Pests: Be vigilant about checking for pests such as mealybug, spider mites, aphids, and scale, and if detected, take immediate action.
I recently lost my beautiful ‘Escargot’ to a massive aphid infestation, and I was devastated. Still, Rex Begonias have a special place in my heart, and with some hands-on experience and knowledge, I’m ready to give them another try. If you’re a plant enthusiast looking for a new love, you should get to know Rex Begonias.
To learn more about Rex Begonia care, visit: https://www.thespruce.com/grow-rex-Begonia-1902492