Begonia Rex Red Kiss

The Begonia Rex 'Red Kiss' is a vibrant and contrasting cultivar. Its foliage is deep pink to red, tinged with black at the edges and centre of the lamina, which spills over into the leaf. Over time, it forms a substantial and elegant plant. Place the 'Red Kiss' 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 Kiss' 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 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.

When grown indoors, the Begonia Rex has moderate growth, typically reaching a height of 45 cm and a spread of 40 cm, though some cultivars like the 'Red Kiss' easily exceed 50 cm. Its habit is compact and bushy. Its large, heart-shaped, sometimes spiralled leaves (known as 'snail' 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 them being removed.

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 'Red Kiss' 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. Maintain moisture levels at least above 50% ambient humidity. The ideal temperature ranges between 18 and 25°C, but not below 15°C. Regular watering is necessary, keeping the substrate slightly moist but not waterlogged, and well-drained to prevent root rot.

With its diva-like appearance, the Begonia Rex ‘Red Kiss’ makes a striking display in any room of the house. Place it prominently on a natural pine shelf or a minimalist stand near a window filtered by a sheer curtain that diffuses soft light. For a 'wow' contrasting effect, pair it with a Chlorophytum ‘Irish’ with its finely variegated foliage or a Hypoestes phyllostachya ‘Hippo Pink’ with its speckled with pink spots.