With its shimmering silver leaves edged in dark green and blushed with hints of pink or plum, Begonia rex ‘Dewdrop’ is a striking variety prized for its foliage. Compact and decorative, it’s ideal for tabletops, terrariums, or grouped plant displays. Though modest in size, its bold colouring and crinkled texture make it a standout among the Begonia rex cultivars.
Scientific Name
Begonia rex ‘Dewdrop’ (from Latin rex, “king” – referring to the regal and showy nature of this foliage group)
Begonia rex hybrids originate from Begonia rex introduced to Britain from Assam, India, in the mid-1800s. ‘Dewdrop’ is a named cultivar bred for its compact size and shimmering, jewel-like foliage.
Common Name(s)
Dewdrop Begonia, Rex Begonia
Origin
Cultivar bred from Begonia rex species native to northeast India and surrounding regions
Light
Thrives in bright, indirect light. Too much sun can scorch the leaves, while too little light can cause colours to fade and growth to slow.
Water
Water when the top 2–3cm of soil feels dry. Keep the soil lightly moist but never soggy. Reduce watering in winter and avoid getting water on the crown or leaves.
Humidity
Prefers moderate to high humidity but dislikes wet leaves. Use a pebble tray or humidifier rather than misting directly.
Soil
Use a well-draining, airy mix – a blend of houseplant compost with added perlite and leaf mould or bark is ideal. Repot every 1–2 years in spring to refresh the mix.
Food
Feed every 4–6 weeks in spring and summer with a diluted balanced liquid fertiliser. Too much fertiliser may reduce leaf colouring.
Temp
Ideal temperature range is 18–24°C. Avoid cold draughts and temperatures below 15°C.
Pet-safe
Toxic if ingested – keep out of reach of pets and children.
Sprouts Top Tips
Turn your plant regularly to encourage even growth and prevent leaning. Remove any faded or damaged leaves to keep the plant looking tidy and healthy.
Extras
Its compact growth makes ‘Dewdrop’ perfect for windowsills or shelves. Excellent in mixed foliage displays where its silvery tones can catch the light.
Did You Know?
The fine hairs on Begonia leaves help trap moisture and diffuse sunlight – a natural adaptation for their native forest floors.
