Rex Begonias are a large hybrid group grown almost exclusively for extraordinary leaf patterning rather than flowers, descended from Asian species including Begonia rex itself. The whole Begonia genus contains soluble calcium oxalate crystals throughout leaves, stems, and especially the rhizome, and is considered toxic to cats and dogs.
Also known as
Rex Begonia · Painted-Leaf Begonia · King Begonia
Care
Ideal — Bright Indirect, No Direct Sun
Light
Ideal — Evenly Moist
Water
Drought
Regular
High
Frequent
Description
Grown for spectacular, often iridescent leaf patterning in combinations of silver, deep red, purple, and green rather than for its comparatively insignificant flowers. A rhizomatous plant — the thick, creeping stem at soil level stores water and energy. Prized cultivars include 'Fireworks', 'Escargot' (with a distinctive spiral pattern), and many others, all sharing the same underlying care requirements and toxicity profile regardless of leaf pattern.
Detailed Care
WateringKeep evenly moist but never waterlogged; the rhizome rots readily in soggy soil. Water from below or at the soil line to avoid wetting the leaves, which are prone to fungal spotting.
HumidityWants higher humidity than most houseplants; dry indoor air commonly causes crisping leaf edges.
PropagationLeaf cuttings — a whole leaf, or sections cut through major veins, laid flat on moist medium will root at the cut veins.
Cause of DeathOverwatering and low humidity combined; also sensitive to leaf-wetting, which invites fungal disease.
Toxicity
CatsToxic
DogsToxic
BirdsNo data
RodentsNo data
ReptilesNo data
Contains soluble calcium oxalates throughout the plant, concentrated most heavily in the rhizome (the underground stem). Causes oral irritation, drooling, and vomiting in cats and dogs if chewed or ingested; risk is highest if the rhizome itself is dug up and eaten.