Begonia rex originated in Assam. The varieties available are all hybrids of this plant with one of the countless other Asiatic begonias and may be found on the market under the collective name of Begonia Rex hybrids. Their leaves are up to 30cm (12in) in length and their great weight can cause the plant to topple over. Re-pot into a large or heavy pot as soon as you obtain the plant. Never plant it more deeply than it was before, because that may cause rotting. The leaves are often brilliantly marked and have a beautiful sheen. The patterns are mainly built up of the colours pink, carmine, silver, green and red-brown. The plants are imported in mixed batches so that that you can choose the colour combination that you like from those on offer. If a leaf breaks off it can be used as a cutting. Put the leaf on damp compost and cut through the veins in a few places with a sharp knife. Cover with plastic and put in a warm spot, out of direct sunlight. After a few weeks new plants will have developed where the cuts were made and you can pot them on individually.
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