Begonia Rex Dew Drop

The Begonia Rex Dew Drop is a cultivar with impressively large leaves at maturity. They display a mix of silver, pink, and emerald green hues. Over time, this variety forms a substantial and elegant plant. Place the 'Dew Drop' in a moderately bright or bright location without direct sunlight, with standard or higher ambient humidity and a well-drained substrate.

The Begonia Rex 'Dew Drop' belongs to the Begoniaceae family. This perennial species is rhizomatous, also known as Begonia rex-cultorum and referred to as Royal Begonia and cultivated Rex Begonia. These are Begonias created or selected horticulturally from the Rex group. Begonias are native to tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, primarily found in South America, Central America, Africa, and Asia.

When grown indoors, the Begonia Rex exhibits moderate growth, typically reaching a height of 45 cm and a spread of 40 cm, but some cultivars like the 'Dew Drop' easily exceed 50 cm. Its habit is compact and bushy. Its large, heart-shaped, sometimes spiralled, referred to as snail-shaped leaves are borne on long, coloured petioles featuring dentate and occasionally lobed edges. Their colour palette is astonishing: often metallic patterns blend with shades of pink, purple, and green. Some varieties display fine, delicately fuzzy foliage, making their care more demanding. In late winter, subtle pink flowers appear. Their appeal, overshadowed by the splendour of the foliage, often leads to their removal.

The Begonia genus includes over 1,800 species, mainly distributed in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. These plants are typically found in humid environments such as the undergrowth of tropical forests, where they thrive in partial shade.

To cultivate the Begonia Rex 'Dew Drop' indoors, it is best to provide bright, indirect light, avoiding direct sunlight which could scorch its delicate leaves, though lower light levels are also sufficient. Air humidity should be standard or higher, between 50% and 60-70%, achieved by grouping plants together and using a humidifier. Maintain ambient humidity levels at at least above 50%. The ideal temperature ranges between 18 and 25°C, not below 15°C. Regular watering is necessary, keeping the substrate slightly moist but not waterlogged, and well-drained to prevent root rot.

The Begonia Rex, like other indoor begonias, finds its place in many rooms of the home, where it adds a unique decorative touch. To enhance it, place it on a light wood shelf or a minimalist stand, ideally positioned near a window filtered by a sheer curtain to diffuse direct sunlight. Pair it with indoor plants with colourful foliage such as a Caladium, for example.