Common Name Rex Begonia, King Begonia, Painted Leaf Begonia
Origin Rocky, forested valleys and slopes in northeastern India, southern China and Vietnam
Description The Begonia Rex 'Maia' stands out for its compact, bushy and strikingly silver foliage. With its star-shaped, maple-like leaves, the Maia's compact foliage will really brighten up your home. The leaves also stand out for their dark green veins and slightly pink, crimped edges- a variety of colour all round! Choose a Maia begonia to add a splash of bright silver-green foliage to your collection and really draw the eye.
Light Thrives in bright, indirect light, but will tolerate some shade. Water Keep the soil moist, but ensure good drainage and don't allow to sit in water. Water when the top inch of soil is dry, and reduce watering in winter.
Humidity Average household humidity is fine for this plant, but make sure it's not too close to a radiator as this will dry it out too much! Soil Plant in fast draining, but moisture retentive soil. A mix with added bark or grit would be ideal. Repot every three years or once the plant and roots are crowding the pot.
Food Feed every four waters in the growing season, reduce to every six in autumn and winter. Temperature Ideal temperature range of 12-26°C; don't let it drop below this in winter.
Pet-safe No, this plant is toxic to pets and small humans.
Sprouts Top Tips Water directly into the soil - these Begonias don't like getting their leaves wet.
We have launched our first (hopefully monthly) ‘Letter from the Founder’ blog post. I talk about a string of bad luck, from water gushing from various ceilings in my life to a break-in, and also reflect on the incredible work we have done to win two awards earlier this year. I look ahead to what’s coming up in August, projects we are working on with our clients, and some thoughts about the rest of the year. And I give an insight into my brain, why I am who I am and why I’m so thankful for all the opportunities, passion and excitement that running Sprouts has given me as a founder and as a woman.