Begonia rex 'Red Tango' – Rosy-Pink Rex Begonia with Silver Highlights and Dark Green Margins


Begonia rex 'Red Tango' is a flamboyant foliage cultivar that brings movement and colour into any plant collection. Its leaves open with rich rosy-pink tones that fade into soft green-silver before reaching dark green margins, creating a layered gradient of shades. With its painterly palette and compact form, 'Red Tango' is a standout choice for shelves, decorative pots, or as a colourful accent in mixed displays.
 
● Defining Features of Begonia 'Red Tango'


Leaf colour: Rosy-pink centres blending into silver-green with dark borders
Growth habit: Compact rhizomatous form ideal for containers
Leaf texture: Slightly undulate, adding depth to colour play
Indoor size: Typically 20 – 30 cm in height and spread
 
● Botanical Context


Begonia rex cultivars originate from wild populations in northeast India and southern China, where they thrive in humid, shaded forest understories. 'Red Tango' is a cultivated selection bred for its unique blend of pink, silver, and dark green, echoing the flamboyant variety of painted-leaf Begonias.
 
● Care Instructions for Begonia rex 'Red Tango'


Light: Bright, indirect light enhances colour vibrancy; avoid direct sun
Watering: Keep the substrate evenly moist, allowing the top layer to dry slightly
Humidity: Prefers 60%+ for best leaf health
Temperature: Optimal range 18 – 26 °C; protect from drafts
Soil: Light, airy mix with good drainage and organic content
Feeding: Fertilize every 3 – 4 weeks with a diluted balanced feed in active growth
 
● Seasonal Growth Behaviour


'Red Tango' is evergreen indoors but slows growth in cooler months. New foliage continually emerges from creeping rhizomes, building dense clumps of colour over time.
 
● Typical Issues and Solutions


Brown edges: Caused by low humidity or inconsistent watering
Faded colour: Linked to insufficient light; reposition to brighter filtered conditions
Pests: Occasionally attracts mealybugs; remove manually or treat promptly
 
● Questions About Begonia 'Red Tango'


How big does it get? Indoors, it stays compact, usually reaching 20 – 30 cm tall and wide.
Can I propagate it easily? Yes, via rhizome divisions or leaf cuttings kept under high humidity.
Is it safe for pets? No, like all Begonias it contains oxalates and should be kept away from pets and children.
 
● Etymology of Begonia


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. 'Red Tango' continues this legacy with its flamboyant foliage, combining classic Begonia traits with modern ornamental breeding.
 
● Why Add Begonia 'Red Tango' to Your Collection?


With its rosy-pink centres, silver-green transitions, and dark margins, Begonia rex 'Red Tango' offers a bold, painterly effect in compact form. Order now and let its colourful foliage bring rhythm and elegance to your display.