With its electrifying lime-green foliage, deep contrasting veining and shimmering metallic sheen, Begonia rex ‘Lime Fever’ is guaranteed to brighten any indoor jungle. Its dramatic leaves create colour and texture all year round, making it a favourite amongst foliage lovers. Compact and eye-catching, this rex begonia is perfect for adding a vibrant splash of colour to shelves, desks or terrariums.
Scientific Name
Begonia rex ‘Lime Fever’ (rex begonia)
The genus Begonia belongs to the Begoniaceae family, which contains over 2,000 species found across tropical and subtropical regions. ‘Lime Fever’ is a cultivated rex begonia, bred for its intensely coloured foliage rather than its flowers. Like other rex begonias, it is grown primarily for its spectacular ornamental leaves.
Common Name
Rex Begonia, Lime Fever Begonia
Origin
Derived from Begonia rex, which is native to north-eastern India, southern China and Vietnam. ‘Lime Fever’ is a cultivated variety developed for ornamental houseplant collections.
Light
Prefers bright, indirect light. A position close to an east- or north-facing window is ideal. Avoid prolonged direct sunlight, which can scorch the delicate foliage and fade its vibrant colouring.
Water
Keep the compost lightly moist, allowing the top couple of centimetres to dry before watering again. Avoid letting the plant sit in water, as rex begonias are susceptible to root rot. Water a little less during winter when growth slows.
Humidity
Thrives in moderate to high humidity, ideally above 50%. Bathrooms, kitchens or rooms with a humidifier are excellent locations. Avoid misting directly onto the leaves, as prolonged moisture can encourage fungal issues.
Soil
Use a light, well-draining houseplant compost enriched with perlite and bark to provide good drainage while retaining some moisture. Repot every 1–2 years during spring if required.
Food
Feed every 2–4 waters during spring and summer using a balanced liquid houseplant fertiliser. Reduce feeding during autumn and stop during winter if growth slows significantly.
Temp
Prefers temperatures between 18–24°C. Avoid temperatures below 15°C, cold draughts and sudden temperature fluctuations.
Pet-safe
No. Begonia species are toxic if ingested by pets or humans due to insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, with the rhizomes being the most toxic part of the plant.
Sprouts Top Tips
Rex begonias appreciate consistency. Try to avoid letting the compost dry out completely or become waterlogged, and keep the plant away from radiators and cold windows during winter. Removing any damaged leaves promptly will help keep the plant looking its best.
Extras
Although Begonia rex ‘Lime Fever’ may produce small clusters of delicate flowers, they’re often overshadowed by its spectacular foliage. This variety remains relatively compact, making it an excellent choice for smaller homes, terrariums or decorative plant displays.
Did You Know?
The shimmering colours seen on rex begonias aren’t created solely by pigments. Much of their metallic appearance comes from microscopic structures within the leaves that reflect and scatter light, giving them their remarkable iridescent glow.
