Begonia 'Red Bull'

🌿 Begonia 'Red Bull' is a stunning Rex Begonia cultivar (Begoniaceae family) known for its dramatic foliage that makes it a standout among indoor plants. Native to the tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Africa, and the Americas, begonias have adapted to thrive in shaded forest floors where dappled light filters through the canopy. This particular hybrid is an intermediate-level plant, requiring some attention to humidity and watering but rewarding growers with incredible colour. Here's something you might not know: begonias were named after Michel Bégon, a French patron of botany in the 17th century, and the genus now includes over 2,000 species.
FOLIAGE AND GROWTH HABIT
This Rex Begonia has a compact, bushy growth habit that stays relatively low and wide rather than tall. The leaves are the real showstopper—asymmetrical and spiralled with deep burgundy-red tones that almost appear metallic under the right light. The texture is slightly puckered with a velvety feel, and the undersides often show purple or maroon hues. Each leaf emerges from a thick rhizome at the soil surface, creating a dense cluster of foliage that fills out a pot beautifully.
FLOWER DETAILS
While Begonia 'Red Bull' can produce small, delicate pink or white flowers on thin stems, they're not the main attraction and many growers actually remove them to keep energy focused on the foliage. The blooms are simple, with four petals and a subtle appearance that doesn't compete with the dramatic leaves. They have no noticeable fragrance. Flowering happens sporadically throughout the year, usually in spring or summer, but it's not reliable or frequent. If you want blooms, consistent light and a balanced fertilizer can help, but honestly, the leaves are where this plant shines.
CARE INSTRUCTIONS

🌞 Light: Bright, indirect light for 4-6 hours daily. Avoid direct sun, which scorches leaves. North or east-facing windows work well.
💧 Water: Keep soil lightly moist spring through fall. Water when top inch feels dry. Reduce in winter. Bottom watering prevents leaf rot.
🌡️ Humidity: 50-70% is ideal. Below 40% causes leaf edges to crisp. Use a humidifier or pebble tray.
🪴 Soil: Light, airy mix with peat, perlite, and orchid bark. Needs good drainage to prevent rhizome rot.
🏺 Potting: Shallow, wide pot with drainage holes. Terracotta or plastic both work. Repot every 1-2 years in spring.
🌱 Growth rate: Moderate. Expect 3-4 new leaves in 6 months. Mature size reaches 30-40 cm wide and 20-30 cm tall.
👩‍🌾 Fertilizing: Half-strength balanced fertilizer every 3-4 weeks in spring and summer. Skip fall and winter.
🐾 Pet friendly: No. Toxic to cats and dogs. Contains oxalates that cause mouth irritation, drooling, and stomach upset if ingested.

WHERE TO PUT IT
Begonia 'Red Bull' does best in spaces with stable humidity and moderate light. Bathrooms with windows are perfect if they get enough indirect brightness. Bedrooms, living rooms, or offices with east or north-facing windows also work well. It looks great on a plant shelf, side table, or desk where you can appreciate the foliage up close. Avoid placing it near heating vents, air conditioners, or drafty windows, as temperature swings and dry air will stress the plant. Keep it away from curious pets and don't put it in low-light corners or south-facing windows with harsh afternoon sun.
RARITY ASSESSMENT
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