Begonia rex-cultorum aka Beefsteak Geranium

Taxonomy

Common names

Beefsteak Geranium, Rex Begonia

How to care for Beefsteak Geranium

Difficulty

Beefsteak Geranium requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.

Water

Beefsteak Geranium should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Beefsteak Geranium loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Beefsteak Geranium prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Dormancy

During the cold period, it is common for Beefsteak Geranium to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.

Toxicity

Beefsteak Geranium is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.

Humidity

The Beefsteak Geranium does not necessitate supplementary humidity. Plants primarily absorb water through their roots, rather than their leaves. Hence, the most effective way to supply humidity to your plants is by watering the soil.

Fertilizer

The Beefsteak Geranium should be transferred to a new pot once it has increased in size two-fold, or on an annual basis, whichever occurs earlier. Replacing the soil with fresh potting soil containing all the necessary nutrients, is sufficient enough to support the growth of the plant, thus avoiding the need to use fertilizer. It's important to note that plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.

Growth-pattern

The Beefsteak Geranium is a clumping species, with new growth arising from the soil surrounding the parent plant.

Region of origin

Beefsteak Geranium’s native range is Tropics and Subtropics worldwide.

Flower

If you provide your Beefsteak Geranium with adequate amounts of sunlight and water, it will bloom.


More info:
Wikipedia