Begonia rex 'Red Heart' – Bold Heart-Shaped Leaves in Blood Red and Black


Begonia rex 'Red Heart' is a dramatic foliage cultivar that lives up to its name. Its heart-shaped leaves glow in deep blood-red tones, intensified by a black centre that fades into dark, almost black margins. Compact but highly ornamental, 'Red Heart' is perfect as a striking accent piece indoors or as part of a vibrant foliage collection.
 
● Key Features of Begonia 'Red Heart'


Leaf shape: Distinct heart-shaped blades
Colouration: Blood-red surface with black centres and dark edges
Growth habit: Rhizomatous, clumping form ideal for pots
Indoor size: Usually 20 – 30 cm tall and wide
 
● Botanical Background


Begonia rex cultivars trace back to wild forms from northeast India and southern China, where they grow in humid, shaded understories. 'Red Heart' is a modern cultivar bred for its saturated red tones and bold contrast, making it one of the most striking painted-leaf Begonias available to collectors.
 
● Care Guide for Begonia rex 'Red Heart'


Light: Bright, indirect light enhances its red pigmentation
Watering: Keep soil evenly moist; allow the top layer to dry slightly between waterings
Humidity: Requires 60%+ humidity for best leaf health
Temperature: Grows best between 18 – 26 °C; protect from cold drafts
Soil: Airy, organic-rich mix with good drainage
Fertilization: Apply diluted fertilizer every 3 – 4 weeks in the active growth season
 
● Growth Behaviour


'Red Heart' is evergreen indoors, producing fresh foliage from creeping rhizomes throughout the year. Growth slows in winter but resumes strongly in spring with stable warmth and humidity.
 
● Common Issues and Solutions


Brown edges: Usually caused by low humidity or irregular watering
Pale leaves: Indicates insufficient light; move to brighter indirect light
Pests: May attract mealybugs or spider mites; inspect and treat promptly
 
● Questions About Begonia 'Red Heart'


How big does it get indoors? Typically 20 – 30 cm, compact enough for shelves and tabletops.
Is it safe around pets? No, like all Begonias it contains oxalates and should be kept out of reach of pets and children.
How can I propagate it? Easily propagated via leaf cuttings or rhizome divisions under high humidity.
 
● Etymology of Begonia


The genus Begonia was named in the 18th century by Charles Plumier to honour Michel Bégon (1638 – 1710), a French administrator and amateur botanist who supported early plant exploration. 'Red Heart' reflects this tradition with foliage that is both distinctive and ornamental.
 
● Why Add Begonia 'Red Heart' to Your Collection?


For a Begonia with unforgettable colour and form, Begonia rex 'Red Heart' is unmatched. Order today and bring its blood-red and black heart-shaped foliage into your plant collection.