🌿 Plant Overview

• Scientific name: Begonia rex-cultorum
• Common names: Rex Begonia, Painted-Leaf Begonia, King Begonia
• Type: Perennial foliage plant
• Native region: Eastern Himalayas, Assam, Northern India, and Southeast Asia
• Light requirement: Bright, indirect light
• Water requirement: Moderate (keep soil evenly moist, not soggy)
• Humidity: High (60–80%)
• Temperature: Prefers 18–25°C (65–77°F)

🌱 Care Tips

🪴 1. Light

• Place in bright, indirect light — near a window with filtered sunlight.
• Avoid direct sun, as it can scorch the leaves.

💧 2. Watering

• Keep the soil slightly moist; water when the top inch feels dry.
• Avoid overwatering — soggy soil can lead to root rot.
• Use room-temperature water.

🌡️ 3. Temperature & Humidity

• Prefers warm, humid environments.
• Avoid cold drafts or sudden temperature drops.
• Increase humidity with a humidifier or pebble tray.

🌿 4. Soil

• Use a well-draining mix — e.g., peat moss, perlite, and compost.
• Ensure the pot has drainage holes.

🍃 5. Fertilizing

• Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer (diluted to half strength) every 2–3 weeks during growing season (spring to early autumn).
• Avoid fertilizing in winter.

✂️ 6. Pruning & Maintenance

• Remove dead or yellowing leaves to encourage new growth.
• Pinch back leggy stems to maintain a compact shape.

⚠️ 7. Common Issues

• Brown leaf edges: Low humidity or too much sunlight.
• Wilting or yellowing leaves: Overwatering or poor drainage.
• Powdery mildew: Poor air circulation; treat with fungicide if needed.

🌸 Bonus Tip

Rex Begonias can be propagated easily via leaf cuttings — simply cut a healthy leaf, lay it on moist soil, and cover with plastic until new plantlets form.