Begonia Rex Red Heart

The Begonia Rex Red Heart is an indoor begonia in red and black. The heart-shaped leaves are blood-red in colour, with a black centre and black edging on serrated and undulate margins. Over time, it forms a substantial and elegant plant. Place 'Red Heart' in a moderately bright or bright position, without direct sunlight, with standard or higher ambient humidity and a well-drained substrate.

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

As an indoor plant, the Begonia Rex has a moderate growth, typically reaching a height of 45 cm and a spread of 40 cm, but some cultivars like the 'Red Heart' easily exceed 50 cm. Its habit is compact and bushy. Its broad, heart-shaped, sometimes spiralled (known as 'snail' leaves) leaves are borne on long, coloured petioles and feature 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 genus Begonia 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 'Red Heart' indoors, it is best to provide bright but 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 or using a humidifier. Keep the room at least above 50% ambient humidity. The ideal temperature ranges between 18 and 25°C and 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 ‘Red Heart’ is a star for your décor, turning any corner of the house into a small botanical art gallery. To showcase its colourful foliage, place it on a light wood shelf or a minimalist stand, ideally near a window with a sheer curtain to diffuse the light. For plant companions, opt for contrast: pair it with a variegated Calathea 'Fusion White' with pearly white, or a Peperomia 'Nevada' with lime-green tubular leaves.