Begonia rex 'Breakdance' – Spiky Rex Begonia with Burgundy Undersides and Vivid Veining


Begonia rex 'Breakdance' is a dramatic hybrid that instantly stands out in any collection. Its foliage forms sharp, spiky shapes rather than the rounded blades seen in many other cultivars. The deep green surfaces are crossed by striking light green primary veins, while the undersides reveal a glowing burgundy tone. This combination of texture and colour makes 'Breakdance' a bold ornamental feature for shelves, tabletops, or mixed foliage displays.
 
● How Begonia 'Breakdance' Stands Out


Leaf form: Jagged, spiky blades with serrated outlines
Colour contrast: Dark green tops marked by lighter venation
Hidden detail: Burgundy undersides add depth when viewed in light
Size indoors: Compact, usually 20 – 30 cm in height and spread
 
● Where This Hybrid Comes From


Rex Begonias descend from Begonia rex Putz., native to humid understories of northeast India and southern China. Over decades of cultivation, breeders have created countless hybrids, each with unique leaf shapes and colour palettes. 'Breakdance' belongs to the more dramatic group, valued for its spiky silhouette and contrasting venation.
 
● Caring for Begonia 'Breakdance' Day to Day


Light: Bright, indirect light preserves contrast; avoid direct midday sun
Water: Keep soil evenly moist; let the top 1 – 2 cm dry before watering again
Humidity: Maintain 60%+ to protect delicate serrated edges
Temperature: Prefers 18 – 26 °C; avoid cold air and drafts
Soil: Airy mix enriched with organic matter and drainage elements
Fertilizer: Use diluted balanced feed every 3 – 4 weeks in active growth
 
● Seasonal Behaviour and Growth Pattern


'Breakdance' retains its leaves indoors all year but grows most vigorously in spring and summer. New foliage emerges steadily from creeping rhizomes, each leaf displaying the cultivar’s jagged outline and colour contrast. Growth slows in winter but rebounds strongly with warmer conditions.
 
● Troubles You Might Encounter


Brown edges: Usually caused by low humidity or uneven watering
Weaker colours: Often the result of too little light; move closer to bright filtered light
Pests: May occasionally attract mealybugs or spider mites; remove early with IPM methods
 
● Answers to Growers’ Questions


How large does it get? Indoors, it stays compact at around 20 – 30 cm.
Can it be propagated? Yes, by rhizome divisions or leaf cuttings under stable humidity.
Is it safe for pets? No, like all Begonias it contains oxalates and should be kept away from pets and children.
 
● Begonia Name Origins


The genus Begonia was named in the 18th century by Charles Plumier in honour of Michel Bégon (1638 – 1710), a French administrator and amateur botanist. 'Breakdance' continues the tradition with its bold, contemporary foliage design.
 
● Bring 'Breakdance' Into Your Collection


With jagged dark-green leaves, bright veins, and burgundy undersides, Begonia rex 'Breakdance' delivers maximum drama in a compact plant. Order today and let its spiky silhouette add energy to your foliage collection.