Rex Begonias: 31 Colorful Varieties

Rex begonias are celebrated for their exquisite leaves. They showcase a stunning array of colors, patterns, and shapes. With over 4,000 different varieties, these plants stand out in both indoor and outdoor settings. The diversity among them can be remarkable, making each cultivar unique.

For those looking to add these eye-catching plants to their collections, many varieties can be found in local garden centers. Although some may require searching to find a specific type.

These versatile plants can thrive in various environments. Whether planted in stylish containers or nestled in garden beds. While rex begonias make fantastic houseplants when potted individually, they can also create vibrant displays when combined with other plants in a garden setting.

Proper care is essential to ensure their health and beauty, especially when growing Houseplants for Good Luck.

Key Takeaways

• Rex begonias feature diverse colors and patterns with numerous varieties available.
• They can be grown as houseplants or outdoors in containers or garden beds.
• Proper care is key to enjoying the vibrant beauty of rex begonias.

T-Rex™ ‘Painter’s Palette’

Begonia T-REX™ ‘Painter’s Palette’ is a stunning annual plant that thrives in full shade. With an average height and width of 16 inches, it makes a striking addition to any garden.

Its leaves are a true visual delight, showcasing a dark pink center that gracefully transitions to a lighter pink and ultimately a frosty white. Green accents radiate outward, enhancing the artistic quality of each leaf.

This variety is easy to find in garden centers, often located in the houseplant section. It stands out beautifully on its own in a pot but is also perfect for container displays. To achieve a vibrant arrangement, it pairs well with large-leaf tropical plants like alocasia or an umbrella tree, adding depth and interest to shade gardens.

‘Escargot’

Rex Begonia ‘Escargot’ is a captivating plant known for its unique appearance. It typically grows to about 12 inches in height and width, thriving in shaded or partially shaded areas.

This variety features striking dark green leaves adorned with a frosted silver spiral that resembles a snail shell. Meanwhile, the leaf undersides showcase a subtle reddish tint. Perfect for container arrangements or as an accent along walkways, ‘Escargot’ adds a whimsical touch to any garden, and belongs among the Prettiest Flowers in the World. It pairs well with other plants, such as sansevieria, enhancing its visual appeal and creating a delightful landscape.

Jurassic™ ‘Silver Swirl’

The Jurassic™ Rex Begonia ‘Silver Swirl’ is a perennial known for its remarkable leaf patterns and colors. It grows up to 18 inches in both height and width.

This variety features large, irregular leaves that are dark, nearly black, accented by silvery swirls. Ideal for shade or partial shade, it requires low to average watering.

Gardeners often pair it with alyssum for an attractive look in gardens or containers. This begonia thrives best in hardiness zones 10-11 when planted outside, making it suitable for warm climates.

‘Salsa’

Rex Begonia ‘Salsa’ is an annual plant that thrives in partial shade. This variety typically reaches a height and width of 8 inches.

Its smaller, pointed leaves are adorned with striking colors, featuring a dark green edge that transitions to a frosty silver and a deep fuchsia center. Dark green veins enhance the visual appeal, tying together the vibrant colors.

To emphasize its beauty, ‘Salsa’ can be paired with a neutral vine, such as Senecio ivy. Together, these plants create a captivating display in any garden setting.

T-Rex™ ‘Ruby Slippers’

The T-Rex™ ‘Ruby Slippers’ is an eye-catching variety of rex begonia known for its impressive size and vibrant foliage. This annual thrives in full shade and requires average watering.

• Height: Approximately 16 inches
• Width: About 16 inches
• Foliage: The plant features large, uniquely shaped leaves in a striking ruby pink, accented with a dark center.

This combination of colors is rare among plants, making it a stunning choice for any garden. For a dramatic effect, it can be paired with the Jurassic™ ‘Silver Swirl’ variety to create an appealing black and red aesthetic.

‘Yamileth’

The Begonia ‘Yamileth’ is a notable perennial that thrives in partial shade and requires average watering. This plant typically reaches a height and width of about 10 inches.

It features medium-sized leaves that begin as dark green, transitioning to a silver hue, with edges that deepen into a dark purple.

This bushy plant is ideal for potted arrangements, adding vibrancy to indoor spaces. In garden settings, pairing it with red or white geraniums can create a stunning visual. While geraniums usually prefer full sun, they can flourish in part-sun areas, especially when they are well-established.

‘Curly Fireflush’

The Rex Begonia ‘Curly Fireflush’ is an annual plant that thrives in full shade. It requires average to high levels of water.

This striking variety reaches a height of 18 inches and can spread to 24 inches wide. Its leaves are notable for their round shape and frosty green color adorned with a bright red edge that curls around.

The center of the leaf is dark red, with veins that extend outward, enhancing its visual appeal. Pairing it with red flowers, like tuberous begonias, accentuates its vibrant colors.

‘Cowardly Lion’

The Rex Begonia ‘Cowardly Lion’ is a notable perennial plant that thrives in shade or partial shade. This variety features large, swirled leaves that showcase a uniform green color adorned with chocolate-brown veins.

Depending on sunlight exposure, the leaves may display amber and red tones, adding to their charm. Standing at approximately 12 inches tall and wide, these begonia leaves are more about unique details than vibrant colors.

For a beautiful garden pairing, Ajuga (or Bugleweed) works well with ‘Cowardly Lion.’ Its burgundy hues highlight the begonia’s striking features effectively. Plant it close to appreciate its intricate beauty.

Jurassic™ ‘Watermelon’

The Jurassic™ ‘Watermelon’ begonia is a stunning addition to any shade or partial shade garden. Characterized by its large, pointed leaves, this annual plant reaches a height and width of about 18 inches.

The striking color pattern starts with a deep burgundy center which transitions to a vibrant pink, finally leading to a bright green exterior adorned with irregular white spots. A dark burgundy margin surrounds each leaf, perfectly complementing the central hue.

To enhance its visual appeal, it pairs well with other plants that have simpler bright foliage, such as lime green ipomoea. This combination creates a captivating contrast that emphasizes the detailed and colorful foliage of the Jurassic™ ‘Watermelon’.

‘Fireworks’

Begonia ‘Fireworks’ is an eye-catching annual that thrives in full shade. This plant typically reaches a height and width of around 18 inches.

Its standout feature is the large, pointed leaves, which showcase a stunning blend of colors resembling an explosion of fireworks. The center of each leaf shines in a deep burgundy, framing the veins.

Surrounding this dark core is a frost silver hue, which enhances its contrast. A delicate pink margin encircles the leaves, bordered by a thin, darker purple edge.

The intricate design of the ‘Fireworks’ rex begonia makes it a striking addition to any garden, especially when paired with a Japanese-painted fern for added visual interest.

‘Paso Doble’

Begonia ‘Paso Doble’ is a stunning perennial that thrives in shade or partial shade. This plant typically reaches a height and width of about 12 inches.

Its dramatic color scheme resembles a dancer’s swirling skirt, starting with a deep burgundy center.

Surrounding this are vibrant pink and green swirls, accented by irregular white polka dots. The entire look is rounded off with a stark dark burgundy edge.

This begonia is not only striking by itself but also pairs beautifully with other plants, such as pink wax begonias, to create a vibrant display. Its average water needs make it relatively easy to care for while adding a splash of color to any garden.

‘Ring of Fire’

Begonia ‘Ring of Fire’ is a perennial plant that thrives in shade to partial shade environments. It requires low to average water and can grow to about 10 inches in height and 10 inches in width.

This unique rex begonia is particularly appealing to collectors due to its striking appearance.

The plant features jagged, pointed leaves that showcase a vibrant red center surrounded by a frosty silver border. Green veins add an extra layer of detail, enhancing its visual appeal.

The bold red edges provide a dramatic finish that complements the inner splash of color.

For optimal display, it is recommended to pot this begonia in a terracotta container, allowing its vivid colors to shine. Pairing it with a silvery ghost fern can enhance its silver tones and create a beautiful contrast in any collection.

‘Satin Jazz’

Begonia ‘Satin Jazz’ is a striking annual plant known for its unique appearance. This variety showcases leaves that are jagged and ruffled, featuring a frosty silver tint that transitions to a soft pinkish-purple.

• Height: 12 inches
• Width: 18 inches
• Sun Requirements: Partial sun
• Water Needs: Low to average

The dark center of the leaves contrasts sharply with the delicate margins, enhancing its visual appeal.

Planted alongside a blue star fern, ‘Satin Jazz’ brings a mysterious charm to any garden setting, with the vibrant green accentuating its ethereal beauty.

‘Ballet’

Begonia ‘Ballet’ is a perennial plant that thrives in part shade to part sun. It has average water requirements and reaches a height and width of about 8 inches.

Characterized by its charming, heart-shaped leaves, this variety features a striking medium green center surrounded by a frosted silver hue. The stems and the undersides of the leaves have a subtle reddish-pink tint, adding to its delicate appeal.

This petite plant works well when paired with other rex begonias, as its adaptable color scheme allows it to beautifully contrast against larger leaf varieties, such as those from the Jurassic™ series.

‘Red Tango’

The Rex Begonia ‘Red Tango’ is a striking perennial that thrives in shade or partial shade. This compact plant reaches a height of around 8 inches and can spread to 12 inches wide.

Its unique foliage features a mix of pink, white, and green hues. The design includes a dark center framed by an even green edge, with a frosty white area that transitions softly into blush pink.

The leaves are relatively small and pointed, making them an attractive addition to any garden. Pairing ‘Red Tango’ with pink flowers, such as New Guinea impatiens, enhances its lovely color contrasts, drawing the eye effectively.

‘Flamenco’

The Rex Begonia ‘Flamenco’ is a charming plant known for its unique features. This small variety typically grows to 8 inches in height and 8 inches in width.

It thrives best in shade or partial shade and requires low to average water.

The leaves are light green adorned with striking dark veins that create a dramatic effect. The reverse side of the leaves and the stems display a vibrant red color, complemented by soft, fuzzy hairs.

In addition, small red spikes emerge on the leaf’s surface, enhancing its visual appeal. Pairing ‘Flamenco’ with a red flower like a tuberous begonia can emphasize its striking characteristics.

‘Paul Gibory’

The Begonia ‘Paul Gibory’ is a striking annual plant that stands out with its unique features. This rex begonia grows to about 18 inches in height and width.

It showcases pointed heart-shaped leaves, which are highlighted by a dark maroon center. The leaves have sharp lobes that catch the eye, complemented by small hair-like projections on their surface.

The margins of the leaves are medium green and speckled with white, adding to their charm. The center of the leaf displays a lovely white hue, transitioning to blush tones of lilac and pink.

This bold variety makes an excellent choice for a statement plant. It can be beautifully paired with other tropical plants, such as a majesty palm, for a lush, vibrant display.

‘Stained Glass’

Begonia ‘Stained Glass’ is a stunning perennial that thrives in shaded or partially shaded areas. This plant typically reaches a height and width of about 12 inches.

Its leaves are large and round, tapering gently to a point. The center boasts a rich, velvety dark purple hue that radiates through the veins, complemented by a vibrant berry purple splash.

The frosty edges are also accented with similar berry purple spots, finishing with a deep purple border. This captivating color scheme makes it an excellent choice for pairing with white flowers like white wax begonias, enhancing the visual effect of its delicate frosted edges.

‘Marmaduke’

The Begonia ‘Marmaduke’ is a perennial that thrives in shade or partial shade. This captivating plant features large, three-lobed leaves that showcase a striking golden yellow hue, decorated with vibrant red speckles.

With a typical height and width of 12 inches, it requires average to high water levels to flourish.

For those building a begonia collection, ‘Marmaduke’ offers a unique visual appeal. Its distinctive leaf shape and coloration make it an eye-catching addition.

To create a stunning display, pairing it with golden creeping Jenny complements its radiant foliage and enhances the overall aesthetics of the garden setting.

‘Fairy’

The Begonia ‘Fairy’ is a beautiful perennial plant that thrives in shade to partial shade. It reaches an average height and width of 12 inches.

The striking feature of this begonia is its large, pointed leaves, which display a unique frosted silver hue accented by a deep purple center. The purple extends through the leaf’s veins and creates a charming border. Occasionally, the leaves may exhibit a soft blush of light pink.

Pairing this variety with a Japanese-painted fern can create a lovely frosted purple effect.

‘Rumba’

The Begonia ‘Rumba’ is a charming perennial with specific preferences for care. It thrives in partial sun and requires low to average water.

This variety typically reaches a height and width of about 8 inches. The plant features small, heart-shaped leaves adorned with thick black margins and veins, accented by vibrant splashes of berry-pink.

Its intriguing appearance lends a dark, Gothic aesthetic.

For an appealing display, it pairs beautifully with black pansies for a moody contrast or a brightly colored creeping Jenny for a pop of brightness underneath.

Jurassic™ ‘Cherry Spike’

Jurassic™ Rex Begonia ‘Cherry Spike’ is a striking perennial plant that thrives in full shade. It typically reaches a height and width of about 20 inches.

This variety stands out with its large, spiked leaves, featuring a dark center that extends into prominent veins with a deep black edge.

The leaf’s interior displays a silvery hue with hints of bright cherry color, creating a vibrant contrast. This eye-catching plant looks stunning in both black and white pots.

For garden arrangements, pairing ‘Cherry Spike’ with white ghost hostas can enhance its visual appeal, allowing the begonia to shine even more.

‘Red Kiss’

The Begonia ‘Red Kiss’ is a stunning perennial known for its striking foliage. It thrives in shade to partial shade and has average water needs.

This variety reaches a height and width of about 8 inches. Its unique leaves feature a velvety black edge with a glossy cherry red center, creating a dramatic visual effect.

Ideal for small pots, it can stand alone or be paired with taller plants, such as dracaena, to enhance a garden container arrangement.

‘Jive’

Begonia ‘Jive’ is a captivating perennial that thrives in part shade to part sun. It typically reaches a height of 12 inches and spreads equally wide.

This variety stands out with its unique, slightly heart-shaped leaves that have gentle ruffles, offering a layered and full appearance. The bright lime green foliage is adorned with red spots along the edges, adding a vibrant contrast.

For an attractive combination, it pairs beautifully with lime green coral bells like ‘Lime Rickey’. The water needs for ‘Jive’ are low to average, making it easy to maintain within a diverse plant collection.

‘China Curl’

The Begonia ‘China Curl’ is a beautiful perennial known for its eye-catching swirled leaves. Each leaf features a striking contrast between a frosted silver side and a deep black side.

With a mature height and width of approximately 14 inches, its large, heart-shaped leaves create an elegant display.

This variety is often considered a more dramatic alternative to the ‘Escargot’ begonia. For a stunning visual effect, it can be paired in a pot with tuberous white begonias. It thrives best in shade or partial shade and requires average watering.

‘Froggy’

Begonia ‘Froggy’ is a striking perennial that thrives in part shade to part sun. This variety features unique spiral-shaped leaves with a vibrant lime green hue, accented by reddish-black speckles along the edges.

The plant typically reaches a height and width of about 18 inches. Its fuzzy leaf margins add an interesting texture.

For a stunning display, it pairs well with dark burgundy ipomoea, allowing its speckled edges to stand out while contrasting beautifully with the bright green leaves. Regular watering will keep this begonia healthy and thriving.

‘Maui Sunset’

The Begonia Rex ‘Maui Sunset’ is a vibrant, perennial plant known for its striking appearance. It grows to about 8 inches tall and wide and features unique tear-drop leaves.

The leaves showcase a vivid pinkish-red center adorned with an eye-catching rim of white and green speckles.

This begonia makes a delightful alternative to traditional holiday plants like poinsettias, embodying festive colors perfect for seasonal displays. Pairing it with a lemon cypress creates an attractive holiday planter.

Jurassic™ ‘Silver Point’

Jurassic™ ‘Silver Point’ is a striking perennial begonia known for its large, jagged leaves that culminate in a pointed shape. The leaves feature a rich, velvety black center and edges, framed by a frosty silver midsection that exhibits a subtle pink blush.

This plant typically reaches a height and width of 18 inches. Ideal for full shade, it thrives with average watering.

Combining this begonia with black mondo grass can create an appealing black-and-white contrast in the garden.

‘River Nile’

The Begonia ‘River Nile’ is an impressive annual plant best suited for shade or partial shade. It typically grows to about 24 inches in height and width.

This rex begonia features unique lime green leaves that spiral slightly and are adorned with dark reddish-brown, ruffled edges. The appearance is reminiscent of the ‘Jive’ variety, but ‘River Nile’ stands out due to its striking coloration.

It pairs beautifully with other plants, such as coral bells, to create a vibrant display.

‘Shadow King Cool White’

The Begonia ‘Shadow King Cool White’ is a remarkable annual plant that thrives in shaded or partially shaded areas. It typically reaches a height and width of 12 inches.

This begonia presents a deep green color, beautifully accented by a soft white dusting and distinct white spots.

The underside of the leaves features a copper hue, and each leaf has a small copper point at its center. Its large, pointed leaves are edged with jagged shapes.

Pairing this plant with an orange tuberous begonia not only enhances its striking appearance but also brightens up darker spaces in gardens or borders. This variety is particularly effective in adding visual interest where needed.

‘Harmony’s Fire Woman’

The Begonia ‘Harmony’s Fire Woman’ is a striking perennial that thrives in shaded or partially shaded areas. It reaches a height of about 24 inches and can spread to 18 inches wide.

This plant features large, pointed leaves characterized by a dark, velvet black center, surrounded by a frosted silver that lightly blushes pink. The leaves are bordered by a deep berry purple margin, finished with a delicate black outline, enhancing the leaf’s definition.

For a stunning visual effect, pairing it with a berry-colored heuchera, such as Dolce ‘Wildberry’, can highlight the vibrant purple edges beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions