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:
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
In flower about 2 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds or cuttings into well-draining soil in spring.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
- Keep soil moist but not soggy during active growth.
- Provide bright, indirect light for optimal growth.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
- 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
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Lift Store | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Plant |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
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.
More Begonia to compare

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Begonia x tuberhybrida 'Picotee Mix'

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Begonia x tuberhybrida 'Hardy Begonia'

Mistral Pink Begonia
Begonia begonia 'Mistral Pink'

Wildwood Purity Begonia
Begonia grandis 'Wildwood Purity'

Smooch Begonia
Begonia x tuberhybrida 'Smooch'

Solenia Chocolate Orange Begonia
Begonia x hybrida 'Solenia Chocolate Orange'
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.

