A dazzling foliage plant, Begonia rex ‘Sea Urchin’ features spiralled, jagged-edged leaves in metallic shades of silver, deep green, and burgundy. The leaves’ texture and colour resemble the spines and shifting tones of a sea urchin, making this variety one of the most eye-catching in the Begonia rex group. While grown mainly for its leaves, it may produce small pink blooms in the right conditions.
Scientific Name
Begonia rex ‘Sea Urchin’ (from Latin rex, meaning “king”, referencing the regal appearance of the foliage)
Begonia rex cultivars are derived from Begonia rex hybrids, originally introduced from Assam, India, in the mid-1800s. ‘Sea Urchin’ is a cultivated variety bred for its spiral growth and dramatic colouring.
Common Name(s)
Rex Begonia, Painted-leaf Begonia, Sea Urchin Begonia
Origin
Cultivar developed from species native to northeast India and surrounding regions
Light
Prefers bright, indirect light. Too much sun will scorch the leaves; too little can dull their colours. North or east-facing windows are ideal.
Water
Water when the top inch of soil is dry. Keep the soil slightly moist but never soggy. Reduce watering in winter and avoid letting water sit on the leaves or crown.
Humidity
Thrives in moderate to high humidity but dislikes being misted directly. Use a pebble tray or place near a humidifier to maintain consistent moisture in the air.
Soil
Likes a light, airy mix – a blend of houseplant compost with added perlite and leaf mould or fine bark. Ensure excellent drainage. Repot every 1–2 years in spring.
Food
Feed every 4–6 weeks in spring and summer with a diluted balanced liquid fertiliser. Too much feed can cause leggy growth.
Temp
Prefers 18–24°C. Sensitive to cold – avoid temperatures below 15°C and keep away from draughts.
Pet-safe
Toxic if ingested – keep out of reach of pets and children.
Sprouts Top Tips
Rotate regularly to keep the plant growing evenly and protect the crown from overwatering. If the lower leaves drop, check for overwatering or cold stress.
Extras
You can propagate leaf cuttings in moist soil or water – even a single leaf with a vein can grow into a new plant.
Did You Know?
The swirling centre and jagged margins of ‘Sea Urchin’ resemble the shape and texture of marine urchins, giving this variety its memorable name.
