Psychedelic Rex Begonia

Rex begonia

One of the most stunningly colorful plants I have yet to encounter is the Rex Begonia.  Although, it does not like too much direct sun,  when the sunlight hits it, it's iridescent colors are dazzling.  To those of us not used to living around such vivid plants,  they may appear to be something out of a science fiction novel.  This one lives in my living room and it's wonderful color brightens up the room;it's colors are a delightful complement to the other colors in that room.   It even blooms from time to time with a sweet light pink single-petaled flower.

The first Rex begonia to be cultivated was discovered by a botanist in 1856 in Assam,  a north eastern state in India.  Since then,  many, many hybrids have been produced.  The one you see in  your nursery is a hybrid of the first one used for cultivation from India.

Care Instructions--

• Prefers bright indirect light.  A north window is perfect.  An hour or so of direct sun is ok. 
• Water thoroughly as soon as the top is dry. 
• Fertilize regularly. 
• It likes a warm room with some humidity.  Misting daily is helpful, if your home is dry.  Placing pebbles in it's saucer and keeping it filled with water just below the bottom of the pot will also help provide some humidity as it evaporates.
• Prefers temperate temperatures. it may need to rest in a cool place for a month or so when it is hot outdoors.  Keep it slightly on the moist side during that time. 

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**To see other plants on this blog click here:   The Indoor Garden blog

***For a variety of  video clips on houseplant care from my 90's TV series, click here:The Indoor Garden TV show

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