Selling Size : Single Plant | Pot Included | Secure Packing
The Begonia Rex 'Jive' is a stunning hybrid celebrated for its striking and intricate foliage. It features large, spiral-shaped leaves with a deep, dark center that transitions into shades of silver, pink, and burgundy toward the edges. Its vibrant colors and unique texture make it a popular choice for indoor growers who appreciate dramatic houseplants.
Here's a comprehensive guide to caring for your Begonia Rex 'Jive':
Light
Bright, indirect light is essential. This is the most crucial factor for maintaining the plant's brilliant, multicolored leaves. Too much direct sun will burn the leaves and cause the colors to fade, while too little light will result in a dull appearance.
Ideal placement: An east or north-facing window is perfect, as it provides gentle, filtered light. If you have a south or west-facing window, place the plant a few feet away or use a sheer curtain to diffuse the light.
Watering
Be careful not to overwater. This is the most common mistake with Rex Begonias. They are highly susceptible to root rot if the soil remains soggy.
Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out before watering again. Use your finger to check the moisture level.
Water thoroughly. When you do water, soak the soil until water drains from the bottom of the pot. Immediately discard any excess water from the saucer.
Avoid getting water on the leaves. Water directly at the soil line. The textured leaves can hold water, which can lead to fungal diseases like powdery mildew.
Humidity and Temperature
High humidity is a must. As a tropical plant, the 'Jive' begonia thrives in high humidity, ideally 50% or higher.
Ways to increase humidity:
Use a humidifier near the plant.
Place the pot on a pebble tray filled with water, ensuring the pot itself is not sitting in the water.
Group it with other houseplants to create a humid microclimate.
Do not mist the leaves, as this can encourage fungal issues.
Maintain warm, stable temperatures. The ideal temperature range is between 60-75°F (15-24°C).
Protect from drafts. Keep the plant away from cold windows, air conditioning vents, and heating units, as sudden temperature fluctuations can be stressful.
Soil and Potting
Use a well-draining, airy potting mix. A mix formulated for begonias or a standard indoor potting mix with added perlite, vermiculite, or coco coir will provide the necessary drainage and aeration.
Shallow pots are ideal. Like other rhizomatous begonias, 'Jive' grows from a horizontal stem (rhizome) that sits at or just below the soil surface. A wide, shallow pot gives the rhizome ample space to spread and thrive.
Repotting: Repot only when the plant is root-bound, which is typically every 1-2 years. You can also divide the rhizome when repotting to propagate new plants.
Fertilizer
Fertilize during the active growing season. From spring through summer, feed your begonia every 4-6 weeks with a balanced, water-soluble liquid fertilizer.
Dilute the fertilizer to half or quarter strength to avoid burning the roots.
Do not fertilize in the fall and winter, when the plant's growth has slowed.
Pruning and Maintenance
Prune to maintain shape. You can pinch back leggy stems to encourage a bushier, more compact growth habit.
Remove dead or yellowing leaves. Regularly trim away any unhealthy foliage to keep the plant tidy and to prevent disease.
Common issues:
Powdery Mildew: A common fungal issue that appears as white, powdery spots on the leaves. It's often caused by high humidity and poor air circulation.
Root Rot: Caused by overwatering.
Pests: Keep a lookout for mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids. Inspect the undersides of the leaves regularly.
