Rotating potted rex begonias will keep the plants full and stocky. When planting directly in the ground, a moist, well-drained location is optimal and mulch will keep the roots shaded. Causes of Crisping Leaves in Rex Begonias Humidity Help. According to the University of California IPM Program, improper irrigation is among the most common causes of damage in plants. Rex begonia hybrids have been developed to have unusual markings, leaf shapes, and colors. The leaves grow on short leaf stalks, from the underground rhizome. Learn tips for creating your most beautiful (and bountiful) garden ever. Rex begonias have high humidity needs, requiring levels around 50 percent or more. Something is eating the leaves on my begonias and pansys, can't see any bugs, what can I spray on them? Among the various types of begonias, the Begonia rex are some of the most beautiful and stunning plants. Rex Begonia leaves also grow in purple, cream, pink, and silver. When watering, try not to do this - begonias are fussy and do not like wet leaves. Begonia maculata is a type of cane begonia that has thick stems that support spotted angel wing-shaped leaves. You can cut back on water during their dormant period in the winter, watering only when the pot dries out. Repotting rex begonias each spring will ensure that they have plenty of soil to grow in, but they like to be a little bit pot bound. Grow these babes in shade or bright, indirect light. Begonias (Begonis spp.) Above: Begonia rex ‘Red Tango’ mixes well with other shade- and humidity-loving plants such as asparagus ferns and geraniums. If it is droopy or gangly, adjust the light and water. If you don't see insect pests, I wonder if slugs or snails are busy eating the leaves after dusk? Many hybrid varieties are beautiful, but they are unlabeled or mislabeled, so be sure to ask questions so you know exactly what you're buying. Direct sunlight will bleach the leaves or cause sunscald, resulting in brown, dry tips or patches. Eventually, you'll figure out the right balance. The spots enlarge and run together, giving the leaf a blotched appearance. To really play up the unique qualities of begonia rex, pair them with solid green plants with different textures or forms. Mealybugs may attack both outdoor and indoor plants, appearing as cottony masses on the leaf joints and sometimes causing leaf stunting. They come in a variety of forms including those that grow canes a little like branching bamboo, clump formers and others with rhizomatous creeping roots, those with the largest leaves are Begonia rex. These evergreen perennial plants are native to the tropical rainforests in Brazil. Large or gangly plants can be pruned into shape. There are many cultivars available with attractive coloured and patterned leaves. The varieties of begonias number in the thousands, and their popularity is quite apparent. Exactly what is begonia pythium rot? In most cases, a spray form of pesticide will take care of the issue. Rex begonia plants have calcium oxalate, which is toxic to dogs and cats. Rex begonia requires a well draining, porous soil mix. There are hundreds of cultivars of B. rex to choose among, usually classified by leaf size—small (three inches or less), medium (three to six inches), or large (more than six inches). These plants do require high humidity (more than 50 percent), which means it can be difficult to maintain rex begonias indoors over the winter. 0. Like other begonia species and other tropical understory plants, the Rex enjoys a shaded, humid, and quiet environment to grow in. Rex Begonia Features: An Overview. A … How To Water A Rex Begonia Indoors. Avoid direct sunlight. Begonia blooms range from small and delicate to large and roselike. Why an Indoor Stephanotis Has Drooping Leaves, University of Illinois Extension: Rex Begonia, University of California IPM: Begonia — Begonia spp. If your rex begonia develops crispy brown leaves, its likely a sign that the plant's cultural conditions are less than ideal. Begonias Water sparingly if this happens; new, healthy leaves will appear in the spring. Though rex begonias love warm weather, they will not grow well in full sunlight. Read on for information about this disease and tips for treating begonia … A rex begonia suffering from mold may have discolored leaves with soft stems or patches of gray or black mold growing on the leaves. Rex Begonia fertilizer. Sometimes called painted-leaf begonias or fancy-leaf begonias, these plants are known for their showy, sometimes jaw-dropping leaf coloration. Water-soaked areas surrounded by yellow halos develop on leaves. The spots are translucent and turn brown with yellowish, translucent margins. Keep water levels low enough that they do not touch the bottom of the pot. Marie Iannotti is an author, photographer, and speaker with 27 years of experience as a Cornell Cooperative Extension Horticulture Educator and Master Gardener, The Spruce uses cookies to provide you with a great user experience. If you live in an area that's prone to flooding, growing your begonias in a pot will give you the option of bringing them under shelter in rain. are tropical plants cultivated as houseplants or as edging in a garden for their handsome, succulent, often varicolored leaves and waxy flowers. Too much food will make for a scraggly plant, so pay attention and adjust the feeding to suit your variety. Depending on the cultivar, the Rex begonia plant can reach from 12 to 24 inches in height and spread. Also, if the soil goes from wet to dry to wet, this could cause leaf problems, too. Rex begonias can be very demanding of just the right amount of water, food, and humidity. Begonias (Begonia) Posted by jmorth. Rex Begonias do bloom but the flowers pale in comparison to the amazing leaves which seem to glisten and sparkle in the light. Begonia stem and root rot, also called begonia pythium rot, is a very serious fungal disease. Aster Yellows is a disease caused by leafhoppers that results in spindly growth and yellow veins on young begonia leaves. Rex begonias have high humidity needs, requiring levels around 50 percent or more. Full sun to partial shade. Views: 2233, Replies: 2 » Jump to the end. In fall and winter, plants may undergo a natural dormancy if temperatures are low, dropping leaves and appearing dead. By using The Spruce, you accept our, The 5 'It' Plants of 2021, According to the Pros, 10 Varieties of Begonias for Gardens and Containers, 10 Top Outdoor Garden Plants That Thrive Indoors. Introducing "One Thing": A New Video Series, Annuals that can be grown as a houseplant, South and Central America, Africa, southern Asia. Stick your finger into the soil before you water to check for dampness. Despite its exotic looks, Rex begonia is actually easy to grow. Remove any damaged leaves or stems and treat plants affected by insect pests with a horticultural oil and baking soda mix. Alternatively, if your area is too cold, consider growing yours as a houseplant or in an outdoor container that can be brought indoors in cooler weather. Others suggest that they have the holes that better allow water to come in contact with their roots. ... Rex Begonias are admired for their fabulous foliage. Bacterial leaf spot, mildew, and botrytis can occur if the leaves stay wet. Though rex begonias love warm weather, they will not grow well in full sunlight. You can increase humidity by running a humidifier in the room with the plant or by placing its pot on a shallow tray filled with water and pebbles. If it's flourishing, continue with what you were doing. Make sure the sun or artificial light isn’t shining right on the plant. Rex begonia offers colorful foliage and is one of the most interesting indoor plants around. Be sure your garden beds or containers meet the requirements of the rex begonia. A sunny windowsill with a thin curtain is the best type of spot. Remove mealybugs by dipping a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol and using it to wipe off the pests. Root rot can be a problem in wet areas. Caterpillars and earwigs cause similar damage to slugs and snails. Hi, I got this begonia rex on clearance for 1$ (i know this begonia may not even worth 1$), it has put out a new leaf but I've noticed that the new leaf and the other one leaf have a hole in the middle of the leaf. Many of the houseplant Begonias have cane-like stems that leaves sprout from. Leaf spots of begonia are caused by a pathogen called Xanthomonas. More popular than begonia blooms, the leaves of certain begonia varieties grow into mosaic patterns of varying colors. It doesn’t have to be the tip of the stem: any piece of 2″ or up will work. Move your plant to a shadier area. You can keep them happy as houseplants or store them dormant over winter, as you would with other tender bulbs. To help prevent diseases and insects, keep the plant tidy by removing dead leaves and debris from the plant and the surface of the soil. Avoid overhead sprinkling. There are many different varieties of Rex begonia… Use a commercial peat-lite potting mix, and always avoid heavy and poor-draining soil mixes. Most rex begonias sold today are named hybrids, although they are not always labeled as such. Knowing when to water your Rex begonia is easy, although you will probably have to water weekly, especially during the growing season. Houseplants forum: Holes on Begonia Rex leaves. Bacterial Leaf Spot (Begonia) Problem Info . Among the first signs and symptoms that growers may notice when dealing with leaf spot on begonia is the appearance of darkened spots or “water soaked” leaves. They all have their merits. Rex begonia (Begonia rex-cultorum) is a notoriously high maintenance frost tender perennial commonly grown indoors as a houseplant. Rex Begonia. Overwatering and underwatering can both cause wilted, discolored foliage. Viewing 6 posts - 1 through 6 (of 6 … Rex begonias perform best with indoor temperatures ranging between 60°F to 85°F (15.5°C to 29.4°C). The leaf edges and undersides are covered with short red hairs. These plants are grown almost exclusively for their f… Identify the cause of the fickle plant's distress and make the necessary adjustments to help the plant recover so it can exhibit the striking foliage rex begonias are famous for. 5. Plants will vary and the only way to know what your plant wants is to watch it, once it has adjusted to its new surrounding. Worm Infestation. They eat small, rounded holes in the begonia's leaves. Bird of Paradise plants split their leaves to allow wind through as well. Don’t feed at all during the winter. Most rex begonias sold today are named hybrids, although they are not always labeled as such. Begonia rex is sensitive to temperature changes and to temperatures below about 60 degrees Fahrenheit (16 Celsius). Begonia rex: Evergreen perennial to 30cm, with large, obliquely ovate leaves which are metallic green with a silvery zone on the upper surface, reddish beneath; panicles of small pink flowers in winter. Begonia rex should be watered when the soil or pot feels dry, but don’t wait until the plant starts to wilt. Another thing that can cause your begonia to drop leaves is attack by worms. They will stop growing when temperatures dip below 58°F (14.4°C). You can feed your potted plants monthly with any good houseplant food. they are not touching my daisy's or: Answer from NGA June 25, 2009. Rex begonias (Begonia rex) are tropical plants, prized for their colorfully patterned and intriguingly shaped leaves.Although they are at home in a shady garden, they are also popular as houseplants.Many people collect and display several varieties. Because of their native environment, high humidity, warm temperatures, and indirect or filtered light are the essential care factors. It’s better to cluster your plants, so they can create their own humid environment, or use a pebble tray. Some have suggested that Monsteras create holes in their leaves to resist the strong winds of hurricanes. They need some light to keep their coloring, but bright, indirect light is best. Rex Begonia’s are also called looking glass plants. Try to keep the soil evenly wet (not soggy). Soft or droopy leaves accompanied by wet brown spots is a sign of infection by botrytis blight. Mealybugs, aphids, and caterpillars can also become a problem. In pots, be sure to provide drainage holes. Small, blisterlike spots appear on the leaves. Damp soil may cause fungus infection at the base of the stem, causing the plant to topple over. If your begonias are infected, the stems become waterlogged and collapse. Most begonias are grown a s flowering pot plants, but the Rex begonia (Begonia rex-cultorum) is grown primarily for its brightly colored, variegated foliage. Indoor plants require bright, indirect light. Propagating Rex Begonia. Family Begoniaceae (Begonia Family), University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension: Houseplants -- Begonia, Missouri Botanical Garden: Begonia Rex-Cultorum, University of California IPM: Water Excess or Deficiency. Infected begonia leaves will be covered with a white or ash-gray powdery mold. A peat-based potting mix is ideal for containers. Plant rex begonias in a container or hanging basket with drainage holes in the bottom. Conditions: Considered perennials in tropical and semitropical climates, Rex begonias are frost tender and typically grown as annuals or houseplants in North America. Poorly draining soil invites fungal disease and makes it difficult for the roots to suck up moisture. It MAY be insects, but there are also other possibilities with begonias: Have you gotten your little guy's leaves wet? Locate the main veins on the begonia leaf and cut from the edge of the leaf all the way back to where the stem once was. Many people collect and display several varieties. Because it's a relatively short houseplant, Rex begonia is perfect for desks and tabletops where is wildly colorful, variegated foliage makes it a perfect contrast against other houseplants. Although they are at home in a shady garden, they are also popular as houseplants. White Coating On Leaves Caused By Powdery Mildew Powdery mildews are caused by fungi that live on the surface cells of plants. They look great outdoors in shady tropical gardens, but the most popular way to display rex begonias is to collect and group them together, each in its own pot. Lose the Light. Mix 1 tablespoon horticultural oil and 1 tablespoon baking soda with 1 gallon of water. Rex begonias (Begonia rex) are tropical plants, prized for their colorfully patterned and intriguingly shaped leaves. According to the University of Illinois Extension, rex begonias with crispy brown leaf margins are usually suffering from low humidity levels. © Copyright 2020 Hearst Communications, Inc. Wishhart holds a Bachelor of Arts in fine arts and English literature from the University of California, Santa Cruz. This plant is susceptible to fungal infections, mainly bacterial leaf spot. The plant will very easily regrow from these, so if you snip off an inch or two of stem with some leaves attached like in the image below, you’re all set for success. Plants … Handle slugs and snails by placing slug bait near your plants. To avoid these issues, be sure your begonias are in well-drained soil and water them sparingly. Several factors cause begonia leaves to fall off suddenly and rot. The rex begonia is a native of Southeast Asia. You can feed Rex Begonias every two weeks or so using a diluted regular balanced houseplant fertilizer during the growing season (Spring through Fall). Humidity is crucial to keeping your rex begonia happy, however, spraying the leaves can lead to spotting. Origin: The initial species, B. rex, originated in the forests of northern India.Today, there are countless cultivars derived from this species enjoyed around the world. Sometimes a slimy substance oozes from the infected areas, turning light brown as it dries. Michelle Wishhart is a writer based in Portland, Ore. She has been writing professionally since 2005, starting with her position as a staff arts writer for City on a Hill Press, an alternative weekly newspaper in Santa Cruz, Calif. An avid gardener, Wishhart worked as a Wholesale Nursery Grower at Encinal Nursery for two years. Outdoors, where rex begonias are only hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 10 and 11, the plant prefers partial or even full shade, though some morning sunlight is fine. Water your rex begonia deeply, allowing the soil to become almost completely dry between waterings. Outdoors, water tuberous begonias in the garden with a drip system or a hose than drips directly into the soil. Home › Forums › Gardening Discussions › Flowers & Shrubs › Holes in my begonia leaves Tagged: begonias This topic contains 5 replies, has 4 voices, and was last updated by HaroldMe 3 years, 2 months ago. Begonia Rex-cultorum group, (bah-GO-nyah). leomatty067 Dec 10, 2018 2:54 PM CST. The clumping growth habit of Rex Begonias, coupled with their tightly packed leaves, makes for a dense plant. They frequently have large leaves (up to 6 inches long) that are brightly colored in various shades of green, red, silver, and even purple. This is especially true for houseplants during the winter. Begonias are plants that originate from warm, humid parts of the world like north India. Fading leaves on a Begonia rex is a sign of too much direct sunlight. Rex begonias prefer light, rich soil. In 2017, we offered a Rex begonia called ‘Jurassic Silver Swirl’ for the first time. Rex begonias can be temperamental and you just have to find the right conditions and balance for your plant. Rex Begonias are not difficult to divide and propagate, which comes in handy as individual plants usually don’t have a very long lifespan. And run together, giving the leaf a blotched appearance begonia leaves will covered. 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