Rex Begonia
The Fascinating Variations Of The Rex Begonia
The Rex begonia is actually a class within the begonia family, and is most prominently known for its brilliant foliage, patterns, and sometimes subtle designs. Rex begonias will flower, but the flowers tend to be overshadowed and outdone by the striking leaves and patterns that these wonderful plants are known for. In true begonia style, Rex begonias will flourish under humid conditions, whether grown indoors or out. Ideally, these plants with their remarkable foliage will be placed in defused or indirect sunlight and will have plenty of room to spread out. Some varieties will lay close to the ground, while others will take on an almost climbing habit, leaning against structures and stronger plants but not clinging, as do vines.
These are no frost plants, though the Rex begonia will weather a bit more unfavorable weather than will the more delicate flowering species. Other begonias are primarily grown for their striking flowers, but as a ground cover or ornamental addition to your flower beds, the Rex begonia will offer some of the most unique and picturesque leaf patterns, colors, and sizes known to the plant kingdom. They can be jagged and long, tapered, or twirled, all the way to multicolored or brilliant gold to silver. The miniscule flowers common on these types of begonias are rarely noticeable, and therefore not prized as the other varieties are, but they are a nice discovery when you spend time weeding and watering.
The Rex begonia appreciates a fair amount of moisture, and a mix of peat moss and common potting soil or garden soil will retain enough water to support its needy root system. Most common fertilizers will give your Rex begonia plants ample feed as they do not need as much nutrition and energy as the blooming tuberous varieties. They will keep with the tradition, as their relatives are prone to, of going dormant toward the end of summer. During this cooling out before the over wintering cycle begins, you will want to slowly decrease their feedings and water intake. Eventually, as they shed and go to sleep, you will decrease their water supply until they are receiving one slight watering per week. Don’t allow the soil to dry out, but be careful not to drown the tender roots.
If you are keeping the Rex begonia indoors, it will benefit from a light misting once per week. Because of its thirst for humidity, keeping a pan of pebbles beneath the pot is a good idea. Put water in the pebble pan, but be sure that the begonia pot does not touch the water. This will keep moisture and humidity in the air immediately surrounding the plant, keeping it happy and healthy the whole year round.