How to propagate Rex begonia

Begonia rex

Rex begonia propagates best from leaf cuttings in spring or summer. Cuttings usually root in 4–6 weeks.

Toxic to pets

How to propagate by leaf cuttings

Rex begonia can be grown from pieces of leaf. New plants form where a main vein has been cut, so one leaf can give several.

01
Choose a healthy, full-grown leaf in spring or summer and cut it off with a short piece of stalk.
02
Turn it face down and cut it into wedges with a clean knife, each with a main vein running from the point where the stalk joined. Or keep the leaf whole and make short cuts across the main veins on the underside.
03
Push the wedges point down about 1 cm (0.4 in) into damp seed mix with extra perlite. Lay a whole leaf flat, underside down, and pin it so the cut veins touch the mix.
04
Cover the tray with a clear lid or bag to keep the air humid, and open it for a few minutes every few days.
05
Keep it in bright, indirect light at 18–24 °C (64⁠–⁠75 °F), with the mix lightly damp but never soggy.
06
Usually roots in 4–6 weeks. Small plantlets follow along the cut veins: pot each one up once it has a few leaves of its own.

Divide a healthy rhizome in spring. Each section must keep at least one growing point and some roots.

01
Choose a healthy plant and divide its rhizome in spring.
02
Slide the plant from its pot and gently remove enough mix to see the rhizome and roots.
03
Use a clean, sharp knife to cut the rhizome into sections. Each section needs at least one growing point and some roots.
04
Pot each section in fresh, free-draining mix at the same depth as before.
05
Water lightly and let all excess drain. Keep the mix lightly watered, never saturated.
06
Place the divisions in bright, indirect light and watch for new growth.

What is the best way to propagate Rex begonia?

The most reliable method for Rex begonia (Begonia rex) is leaf cuttings. It requires some care but is well within reach of most houseplant owners.

When should I propagate Rex begonia?

The best time is spring to summer, when the plant is actively growing and roots form most quickly.

How long does it take Rex begonia to root?

Expect roots to appear within roughly 4–6 weeks, given warm temperatures and good indirect light.

Propagation guidance is based on genus-level horticultural knowledge. Individual specimens can vary.

Sources: RHS.

6 steps · 4–6 weeks · Last reviewed: 2026-10-06