Begonia Rex Pink Pop

The Begonia Rex 'Pink Pop' is an ornamental begonia with remarkably textured, pointed, heart-shaped leaves featuring a dimpled surface. They are deep pink and dark brown, almost black. Place your 'Pink Pop' in a moderately bright or bright location without direct sunlight, with standard or higher ambient humidity and a well-drained substrate.

The Begonia Rex 'Pink Pop' belongs to the Begoniaceae family. This perennial species is rhizomatous, also known as Begonia rex-cultorum and referred to as Royal Begonia or cultivated Rex Begonia. These Begonias are grown or selected horticulturally from the Rex group. 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 exhibits moderate growth, typically reaching a height of 45 cm and a spread of 40 cm, though some cultivars like the 'Pink Pop' easily exceed 50 cm'. Its habit is compact and bushy. Its broad, heart-shaped, sometimes spiralled leaves (known as 'snail' leaves), are borne on long, coloured petioles and feature dentate or occasionally lobed edges. Their colour palette is striking: 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 understorey of tropical forests where they thrive in partial shade.

To cultivate the Begonia Rex 'Pink Pop' 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. Ambient humidity should be standard or above, between 50% and 60-70%, which can be achieved by grouping plants or using a humidifier. Maintain at least above 50% humidity levels. 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 suits many rooms in the home where it adds a very decorative touch. Place it prominently slightly raised on a light-coloured wooden shelf or a simple stand, ideally positioned near a window with light filtered by sheer curtains. Pair it with plants featuring more subdued foliage such as an Anthurium jenmanii 'Green Jady' or Peperomia obtusifolia 'Green'.