Begonia rex 'Crispa Marginata'
perennial

Crispa Marginata Rex Begonia

Begonia rex 'Crispa Marginata'

The Story

Plant Bio

Begonia rex 'Crispa Marginata' is known for its striking foliage, featuring wavy, crinkled leaves with dark green and silver variegation.

This cultivar has unusually crinkled leaf margins that add an interesting texture to its appearance.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesBegonia rex Crispa Marginata offers striking foliage with textured, variegated leaves, perfect for adding visual interest to shaded areas.
Practical UsesProvides an attractive container plant that thrives indoors or in shaded outdoor spots.
Ecological BenefitsSupports pollinators when in bloom and adds lush greenery to shaded garden zones.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

12 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

10

Water

Keep soil moist

Humidity

High humidity preferred

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Hybrid origin

Toxicity

Toxic to pets

Bloom period

Late summer – Early fall

J
F
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M
J
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In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds or cuttings into well-draining soil in spring.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
  3. Keep soil moist but not soggy during active growth.
  4. Provide bright, indirect light for optimal growth.
  5. Fertilize monthly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
  6. Pinch back stems to promote bushier growth after 6 weeks.

Pro Tip

Maintain high humidity and consistent moisture for healthy rex begonias.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Keep soil consistently moist 🌱
  • Provide bright, indirect light
  • Fertilize monthly during growing season
  • Maintain high humidity in the environment

Don't

  • Avoid direct sunlight that can scorch leaves ❌
  • Do not let soil dry out completely
  • Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent leaf burn
  • Keep away from cold drafts

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Fertilize
Lift Store
Pest Check
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid foliage borderShade garden accentContainer display with dramatic leaves

Companion Plants

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Crispa Marginata Rex Begonia questions

What zones can Crispa Marginata Rex Begonia grow in?

Crispa Marginata Rex Begonia is hardy in USDA Zone 10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Crispa Marginata Rex Begonia deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Crispa Marginata Rex Begonia, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Crispa Marginata Rex Begonia bloom?

Crispa Marginata Rex Begonia typically blooms in late summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Crispa Marginata Rex Begonia need full sun?

Crispa Marginata Rex Begonia does best in part shade.

Keep exploring

Explore the genus

Hardy in your zone?

Grow Crispa Marginata Rex Begonia with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.