Red Kiss Rex Begonia

Basic Information

Common Name: Red Kiss Rex Begonia

Scientific Name: Begonia ‘Red Kiss’

Native Habitat: Hybrid; parent species originate from tropical and subtropical regions.

History / Discovery / Cultivator

Begonia ‘Red Kiss’ is a captivating cultivar of the Rex Begonia, a group renowned for their stunning foliage and diverse patterns. While the exact origins of ‘Red Kiss’ are somewhat shrouded in mystery (as is common with many cultivars), its parentage traces back to the diverse and fascinating world of begonias native to tropical and subtropical regions, particularly Southeast Asia, South America, and Africa.

Rex begonias themselves have a history rooted in the mid-19th century, when explorers and botanists began bringing back specimens from these exotic locales. One of the key ancestral species is Begonia rex, discovered in Assam, India, in 1856. This species became the foundation for countless hybrids, valued for its asymmetrical leaves displaying a remarkable array of colors, textures, and patterns.

The cultivation of begonias, including Rex varieties, gained significant momentum in Europe and North America. Plant breeders experimented extensively, crossing different species and cultivars to produce new and exciting forms. The goal was to enhance desirable traits like leaf color, size, and pattern, as well as to improve plant vigor and disease resistance.

While the specific breeder or nursery responsible for developing ‘Red Kiss’ may not be definitively known, it’s highly likely that it emerged from these breeding efforts. The “Red Kiss” designation likely refers to the striking red coloration prominently displayed on the leaves, possibly in contrast with other colors like silver, green, or purple. The “Kiss” portion of the name suggests a delicate, perhaps slightly undulating, pattern or edge on the leaf.

The popularity of ‘Red Kiss’ and similar Rex begonias stems from their ornamental appeal and relative ease of cultivation as houseplants, provided certain environmental conditions are met. They bring a touch of the tropics into indoor spaces, offering a constant source of visual interest. As more begonia cultivars like ‘Red Kiss’ continue to be introduced, the begonia family maintains a cherished position among plant enthusiasts and collectors alike. Their beauty lies in the remarkable diversity and adaptability, a testament to the ingenuity of both nature and plant breeders. They are also popular for being able to add vibrant colour to indoor spaces. The appeal of unique foliage is a big aspect of Begonia’s popularity.

Plant Care Summary

Botanical Insights

Adaptations

Rex begonias, including ‘Red Kiss’, have several notable adaptations related to their tropical origins. Their vibrant leaf colors and patterns may serve to deter herbivores or attract pollinators in their native habitats. As houseplants, they benefit from the high humidity and consistent moisture levels found in tropical environments. The rhizomatous root system allows them to spread and colonize suitable areas, and to store water and nutrients during drier periods. The interesting textures on the leaves also help the plant capture moisture from the air.

Propagation Methods

‘Red Kiss’ can be readily propagated through several methods:

• Leaf Cuttings: A common and effective method. Cut a leaf into wedges, ensuring each wedge contains a vein. Place the wedges on a moist potting mix under high humidity. New plantlets will emerge from the cut edges.
• Rhizome Cuttings: Divide the rhizome into sections, ensuring each section has a growth node. Plant the sections in moist potting mix.
• Stem Cuttings: Less common, but possible. Take stem cuttings with at least one node and place them in water or directly in a moist potting mix.

Toxicology

Begonia ‘Red Kiss’ contains soluble calcium oxalates, which are toxic to both humans and animals, particularly cats and dogs. If ingested, these oxalates can cause:

• Humans: Oral irritation, burning sensation in the mouth, difficulty swallowing, and potentially vomiting.
• Pets: Excessive drooling, vomiting, oral pain, and in severe cases, difficulty breathing. The calcium oxalates can also bind to calcium in the body, potentially leading to kidney problems in severe cases.

If ingestion is suspected, it is recommended to immediately seek medical attention or contact a veterinarian. Offer a source of calcium (such as milk) to help bind with the oxalates if advised by a medical professional.

Common Problems

Pests:

• Mealybugs
• Spider mites
• Aphids

Diseases:

• Powdery mildew
• Botrytis blight (gray mold)
• Root rot (caused by overwatering)

Other:

• Leaf yellowing: Often caused by overwatering or nutrient deficiency.
• Browning tips: Can be caused by low humidity or fluoride in tap water.
• Leggy growth: Insufficient light exposure.

Rarity & Value

Rarity:

‘Red Kiss’ is not considered extremely rare, but it is also not always widely available. The demand for unique and visually appealing Rex begonias contributes to its relative scarcity. Propagation can be a bit slower than some other houseplants, which can limit availability.

Value:

The value of a ‘Red Kiss’ Rex Begonia depends on several factors:

• Size: Larger, more mature plants generally command higher prices.
• Leaf Quality and Coloration: Plants with vibrant, well-defined red coloration and healthy, undamaged leaves are more valuable.
• Overall Health: A healthy, well-established plant free from pests and diseases will be more desirable.
• Pot and Presentation: The pot it is grown in and overall aesthetic presentation can influence the perceived value.
• Collector Trends: Demand for specific Rex begonia varieties can fluctuate based on current collector trends.