The begonia is one of the great groups of cultivated ornamental plants. Because of the great numbers of interesting forms, begonias have appealed strongly to collectors and fanciers. Rex begonias are grown for their variously and usually brightly colored leaves of various irregular shapes, often silvery or with bright green or red. The geographical distribution of begonias is very disjunctive and localized. They are indigenous to Mexico, Central and South America, Asia, and South Africa. The first begonia was introduced into England in 1777, Begonia nitida. Since then, about 200 have proved of value to the horticulturist. Few other plants have been improved or varied so rapidly, there being thousands of variations now in cultivation, displaying the most gorgeous coloring in their leaves. Cultural Info Exposure: Bright shade. Size: 12-15" W 8-12"T Bloom: Sporadic throughout the season. Use: Use as shade hanging basket, borders, window boxes, & houseplants. Feeding: Once per month with a nigh nitrogen fertilizer. Water: Keep evenly moist. This compact grower makes an excellent potted plant for the windowsill or small space garden. The flowers rise slightly above the foliage and bloom in the dead of winter.
