Water
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Allow excess water to drain freely from the pot.
Reduce watering frequency during cooler, dormant periods.
Also known as Begonia · Firework Begonia · Frosted Begonia
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
King begonia (Begonia rex) is a striking foliage plant prized for its vibrant, patterned leaves in a spectrum of colors and textures.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, indirect light
75% intensity
Avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves.
Keep evenly moist
75% intensity
Allow top inch of soil to dry between waterings.
Well-draining potting mix, rich in organic matter.
50% intensity
Average room temperature
50% intensity
Keep between 18-24°C. Avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations.
Feed during growing season
50% intensity
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 2-4 weeks.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 2/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Mildly toxic to pets and humans if ingested, causing oral irritation, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Allow excess water to drain freely from the pot.
Reduce watering frequency during cooler, dormant periods.
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or yellowing leaves, and encourage bushier growth. Pinch back leggy stems just above a leaf node. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruners. Pruning is best done in spring or early summer.
Easily propagated from stem cuttings or leaf cuttings. For stem cuttings, take 5-10 cm cuttings and plant in moist potting mix.
For leaf cuttings, cut a healthy leaf into sections, each with a main vein, and insert the cut edge into moist soil.
Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound, preferably in spring. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one.
Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a peat-based mix with added perlite.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of King Begonia (Begonia rex)
Where King Begonia (Begonia rex) is found
Density
Tap map to explore
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cucurbitales |
| Family | Begoniaceae |
| Genus | Begonia |
| Species | Begonia rex |
Similar in genus Begonia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
