Rex begonia care

Begonia rex-cultorum needs bright light with no direct sun. Check the soil before you water.

This is general care advice. Check the label of your plant. Keep toxic plants away from pets and children.

Care at a glance

Botanical name: Begonia rex-cultorum
Other names: Painted-leaf begonia, King begonia
Light: Bright light, no direct sun. Put it in bright, indirect light, such as near an east window. Keep it out of direct sun.
Soil check: Every 4 to 8 days in the growing season. The app learns the real time.
Humidity: High humidity
Feeding: Feed once a month in spring and summer. Do not feed in winter.

How does the soil feel 2 to 3 cm below the top?

Push a finger 2 to 3 cm into the soil. Feel if it is dry, damp or wet.

Dry: no soil sticks to your finger. Water the plant.
Damp: a little soil sticks to your finger. It feels cool. Do not water yet.
Wet: soil sticks to your finger and feels soggy, or you see water. Do not water. Check the drainage.

Do not water on a fixed day. Test the soil first. Read the soil check guide.

Use a light, airy potting soil with extra perlite and some peat or coir.

Water the soil, not the leaves. Wet leaves cause white mildew.
Do not mist the leaves. Raise humidity with a tray of wet pebbles under the pot.
Give the plant space and some air. Cut off leaves with mildew.
Brown leaf edges mean dry air. Leaf drop in winter can be normal rest.

Toxic to cats and dogs. Keep it away from pets and children.