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HouseplantsConservatory Greenhouse

Begonia 'Salsa' (R)

rex begonia 'Salsa'

A rhizomatous tender, evergreen perennial with medium to large crinkled leaves with silver-black centres and dark pink, light pink and green variegation

Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
1 year
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Grey Silver Green Pink
Summer Grey Silver Pink Green
Autumn Grey Silver Pink Green
Winter Grey Silver Pink Green
Position
  • Partial shade
Aspect

East–facing or North–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H1B
Botanical details
Family
Begoniaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy
Potentially harmful
Ornamental bulbs - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Ornamental bulbs - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Genus

Begonia can be annuals, evergreen or deciduous perennials or shrubs, with fibrous, tuberous or rhizomatous roots and usually asymmetrical leaves, often strikingly patterned, and small or large flowers, both male and female in the same cluster

Name status

Unresolved

Horticultural Group
Rex begonias are evergreen, rhizomatous perennials grown for their handsome, brightly coloured leaves, rather than the small pale pink or white flowers which may appear in spring, summer or autumn

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow as a houseplant in a minimum temperature of 10°C. Prefers part shade, or bright shade, but no direct sunlight. Keeps its foliage in warm temperatures. For more advice, see Begonias: houseplants

Propagation

Propagate by seed in early spring in 21°C or propagate by softwood cuttings or leaf cuttings

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Houseplants
  • Patio and container plants
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to caterpillars, mealy bugs, mites, glasshouse thrips, vine weevil and aphids

Diseases

May be susceptible to grey moulds, powdery mildews and stem rot

Get involved

The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.