A soft yet striking Rex Begonia, Begonia ‘Aiai’ is loved for its beautifully patterned foliage, often featuring silvery tones layered with greens and subtle pink or burgundy undertones. The leaves have a textured, almost painted appearance, making each one feel unique. Compact and full of character, it’s perfect for adding gentle colour and intricate detail to your indoor plant collection.
Scientific Name
Begonia ‘Aiai’
Common Name
Rex Begonia
Origin
Derived from Begonia species native to parts of Asia, particularly Northeast India and surrounding regions, where Rex-type Begonias originate.
Light
Prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the delicate leaves. Too little light may cause colours to fade and growth to slow.
Water
Allow the top few centimetres of soil to dry out between waterings. Keep the soil lightly moist but never soggy. Reduce watering in winter when growth slows.
Humidity
Thrives in higher humidity. Ideal for bathrooms, terrariums, or near a humidifier. Avoid very dry air, which can cause crispy edges.
Soil
Use a well-draining, airy mix. A blend with compost, perlite, and a bit of bark works well to maintain moisture while allowing airflow to the roots.
Food
Feed every 2–3 waters during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertiliser. Reduce feeding in autumn and winter.
Temperature
Prefers temperatures between 18–26°C. Avoid temperatures below 15°C and protect from cold drafts.
Pet-safe
Toxic if ingested, so keep out of reach of pets and children.
Sprouts Top Tips
Rex Begonias are sensitive to overwatering – when in doubt, let the soil dry slightly rather than keeping it constantly wet.
Extras
Its compact growth habit makes it ideal for shelves, desks, or grouped with other foliage plants for a layered display.
Did You Know?
Rex Begonias are among the most diverse houseplants in terms of leaf colour and pattern, with hundreds of unique cultivars developed worldwide.
