Rex begonia care guideBegonia rex

Spectacular leaf patterns. Ranked #50 of Europe's most-searched houseplants.

Rex begonia (Begonia rex) — a healthy specimen photographed indoors
Scientific name
Begonia rex
Origin
India/SE Asia
Difficulty
Moderate
Light
Medium / indirect light
Watering (summer)
every 7 to 10 days
Watering (winter)
every 14 to 21 days
Humidity
50-60%
Pet safety
Toxic to cats and dogs

WateringWhen and how much water

Water Rex begonia when the top 2 to 3 cm of soil feel dry to the touch. In summer that's typically every 7 to 10 days; in winter slow down to every 14 to 21 days. Use room-temperature water and let any excess drain — never leave the pot sitting in standing water.

The real schedule depends on three things the calendar can't see: the actual light at the plant, the pot's size and material (terracotta dries faster than glazed ceramic), and your local humidity. Botanicaly's app retunes the schedule from those signals on every reminder.

LightHow bright a spot it needs

Rex begonia is medium / indirect light: thrives in bright, indirect light. Direct midday sun can scorch the leaves. The ideal lux range is 2,000 - 10,000 lux. In practical terms, place it 1-2 metres back from an east or west window, or behind a sheer curtain on a south window.

Pet safetyToxic to pets

Toxic to pets. Toxic to cats and dogs if chewed. Keep Rex begonia out of reach of pets, or pick a non-toxic alternative like Spider plant, Calathea, or Boston fern.

Get the personalised schedule

Botanicaly tunes water, light, and care reminders for Rex begonia based on your home's actual conditions. Free on iOS and Android.

Download Botanicaly

FAQCommon questions

How often should I water a Rex begonia?

Water your Rex begonia (Begonia rex) when the top 2 to 3 cm of soil feel dry to the touch. In summer, that's typically every 7 to 10 days; in winter, slow down to every 14 to 21 days. Botanicaly's app tunes this further based on your home's actual light, pot size, and local weather.

How much light does a Rex begonia need?

Rex begonia is medium / indirect light: thrives in bright, indirect light. Direct midday sun can scorch the leaves. The ideal lux range is 2,000 - 10,000 lux. In practical terms, place it 1-2 metres back from an east or west window, or behind a sheer curtain on a south window.

Is Rex begonia safe for cats and dogs?

Toxic to cats and dogs if chewed. Keep Rex begonia out of reach of pets, or pick a non-toxic alternative like Spider plant, Calathea, or Boston fern.

BrowseMore popular houseplants