Begonia rex 'Rumba' – Dark Foliage Begonia with Striking Pink Strokes


Begonia rex 'Rumba' is a flamboyant cultivar that brings a touch of luxury to any indoor plant display. Its broad, textured leaves are almost black, creating a dramatic background for splashes and strokes of dark pink across the blade surface. This strong contrast makes 'Rumba' one of the most decorative painted-leaf Begonias, ideal for collectors and anyone looking to add bold colour accents indoors.
 
● Standout Traits of Begonia 'Rumba'


Leaf colour: Nearly black foliage with vivid pink markings
Growth habit: Compact, rhizomatous clumping form
Size indoors: Typically 20 – 30 cm tall and wide
Decorative effect: Strong colour contrast, striking even in low groupings
 
● Background of Begonia rex Cultivars


Rex Begonias derive from Begonia rex Putz., native to northeast India and southern China, where they thrive in shaded, humid understories. 'Rumba' is a cultivated form, bred for its dark leaf base and vivid pink splashing, a combination that offers a dramatic, almost velvety look.
 
● Care Guide for Begonia rex 'Rumba'


Light: Bright, indirect light keeps colours sharp; avoid direct midday sun
Watering: Keep substrate evenly moist but never waterlogged
Humidity: Prefers 60%+ for healthy leaf edges
Temperature: Best between 18 – 26 °C; protect from cold air
Soil: Light, airy mix with organic content and drainage
Fertilization: Apply diluted feed every 3 – 4 weeks during active growth
 
● Growth Behaviour


'Rumba' retains foliage year-round indoors, producing new leaves from creeping rhizomes. Its compact clumping habit makes it well-suited for decorative containers or as a colourful focal point in mixed foliage displays.
 
● Potential Problems and Fixes


Brown leaf edges: Usually from low humidity or uneven watering
Dull colours: Often due to insufficient light; move closer to filtered brightness
Pests: Occasionally attracts mealybugs or spider mites; treat promptly with IPM
 
● Questions About Begonia 'Rumba'


How big does 'Rumba' get? Indoors it usually stays between 20 – 30 cm, perfect for compact displays.
Can I propagate it? Yes, by rhizome cuttings or leaf sections placed in a high-humidity environment.
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, honouring Michel Bégon (1638 – 1710), a French administrator and amateur botanist who supported early botanical exploration.
 
● Add Begonia 'Rumba' to Your Collection


With its dark, velvety leaves splashed with pink, Begonia rex 'Rumba' is a living work of art. Order today and bring its luxurious colour contrast into your indoor garden.