Merry Christmas Rex Begonia
Basic Information
Common Name: Merry Christmas Rex Begonia
Scientific Name: Begonia ‘Merry Christmas’
Native Habitat: Hybrid; parent plants are native to tropical regions.
History / Discovery / Cultivator
Begonia ‘Merry Christmas’ is a captivating Rex Begonia cultivar prized for its vibrant and intricate foliage. Unlike many plants with documented discovery histories, Begonia ‘Merry Christmas’ is a hybrid, meaning it was intentionally created by plant breeders by crossing two or more different Begonia species or cultivars. The specific origins and the name of the breeder who developed ‘Merry Christmas’ are not readily available or are part of proprietary information from a specific nursery or horticultural institution.
Rex Begonias, in general, have a rich history rooted in the tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Africa, and South America. Species like *Begonia rex* (from Assam, India) have played a crucial role in the development of numerous Rex Begonia hybrids, including ‘Merry Christmas’. Plant breeders have long been fascinated by the diverse leaf patterns, colors, and textures found within the Begonia genus. Through careful selection and hybridization, they have produced an array of stunning cultivars like ‘Merry Christmas’ that boast unique characteristics not found in their parent species. Rex Begonias gained popularity as ornamental plants in the Victorian era, and this fascination has continued to the present day. Cultivars like ‘Merry Christmas’ are highly sought after by plant enthusiasts for their decorative appeal and relatively easy care compared to some other exotic plants. The “Merry Christmas” name itself likely alludes to the plant’s vibrant red and green hues, reminiscent of traditional Christmas colors, thus contributing to its popularity during the holiday season and beyond. While the exact genealogy of ‘Merry Christmas’ remains somewhat obscure, it stands as a testament to the artistry and ingenuity of plant breeders in creating cultivars that bring beauty and joy to homes and gardens worldwide. Its ongoing popularity reflects the enduring appeal of Rex Begonias as captivating and diverse ornamental plants. The likely story is one of selective breeding, focusing on intense coloration and attractive leaf patterns, resulting in the beautiful cultivar we know today.
Plant Care Summary
| Category | General Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Light | Bright, indirect | Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch leaves. |
| Water | Allow to slightly dry out | Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry. Avoid overwatering. |
| Humidity | High | Prefers high humidity. Use a humidifier, pebble tray, or group plants. |
| Temp. Range | 65-75°F (18-24°C) | Avoid extreme temperature fluctuations and cold drafts. |
| Soil Type | Well-draining | Use a mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite. |
| Fertilizer | Balanced liquid fertilizer | Feed monthly during the growing season (spring/summer). |
| Toxicity | Toxic to pets | Contains soluble oxalates; ingestion can cause oral irritation and vomiting. |
Botanical Insights
Adaptations
Rex Begonias, including ‘Merry Christmas’, are adapted to thrive in the understory of tropical forests where light is filtered and humidity is high. Their large, colorful leaves are an adaptation to maximize light capture in low-light conditions. The intricate leaf patterns may also serve as camouflage or disrupt the visual patterns of potential herbivores. Rex begonias develop rhizomes, which store water and nutrients, helping them survive periods of drought. As houseplants, their relatively shallow root systems allow them to thrive in containers. The ‘Merry Christmas’ cultivar is bred for its vibrant coloration, making it an attractive ornamental plant.
Propagation Methods
‘Merry Christmas’ Rex Begonias are most commonly propagated through leaf cuttings, stem cuttings, or division. Leaf cuttings involve cutting a leaf into wedges and placing them on a moist growing medium. New plantlets will form at the cut edges. Stem cuttings can also be taken, ensuring the cutting includes a node. Division involves separating the rhizome into sections, each with its own roots and leaves, and potting them individually.
Toxicology
‘Merry Christmas’ Rex Begonias contain soluble oxalates, which are toxic to both humans and pets if ingested. These oxalates can cause oral irritation, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to kidney damage. It’s best to keep the plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion is suspected, it is important to contact a veterinarian or medical professional immediately.
Common Problems
Pests:
- Mealybugs
- Spider mites
- Aphids
Diseases:
- Powdery mildew
- Root rot
- Botrytis blight
Other:
- Leaf yellowing: Often caused by overwatering or nutrient deficiency.
- Brown leaf edges: Usually due to low humidity or inconsistent watering.
- Leaf drop: Can be caused by sudden changes in temperature or light.
Rarity & Value
Rarity:
‘Merry Christmas’ Rex Begonias are not considered particularly rare but availability can fluctuate depending on the season and geographical location. Certain variations with exceptional coloration or patterns might command higher prices among collectors. Propagation can be somewhat challenging, which can limit the supply at times.
Value:
The value of a ‘Merry Christmas’ Rex Begonia depends on factors such as the size of the plant, the vibrancy and pattern of its leaves, and overall plant health. A larger, well-established plant with striking coloration will typically be more valuable than a smaller, less colorful specimen. Demand for unique and visually appealing cultivars also influences their market value.
