Painted-Leaf Begonia

These plants are grown almost exclusively for their foliage—their blooms tend to be small and less showy and many growers pinch off blooms to maintain breathtaking leaf displays. They frequently have large leaves (up to 6 inches long) that are brightly colored in various shades of green, red, silver, and even purple. If planting outdoors, do so in May after frosts, but plant anytime indoors. With a moderate growth rate, rex begonias may grow to less than 12 inches in a year.

Painted-leaf begonias require regular watering, but be careful not to overwater them. Let the soil surface become dry to the touch before watering. The soil should be watered to feel slightly, but evenly moist.

Painted-leaf begonias like bright, indirect light year-round. They are not aggressive bloomers, so they can tolerate less light than other begonias.

The painted-leaf begonia is toxic and not pet friendly.

If you notice the leaves of your begonia wilting it is most likely one of the following reasons if it is not a pest infestation:

- The soil is too dry or too wet.
- The soil is not draining enough.
- The plant needs more light, but not intense light.
- The humidity levels are too low (but don't mist the plant because rex begonias do not like wet foliage).