Begonia ‘Escargot’ (Rex Begonia)

Extremely popular, Begonia Escargot’ is an evergreen, rhizomatous perennial mostly grown for its striking, spiral-shaped foliage that curls around at the base of the leaf. The snail curl pattern is accentuated by the spiraling green, silver, and chocolate colors, creating a most arresting display. The small pale pink flowers are an added bonus. Combine this Rex begonia with other foliage plants or brightly colored shade-loving plants. Perfect for pots and containers, it makes a wonderful houseplant.

• Winner of the Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
• Grows up to 6-12 in. tall and wide (15-30 cm).
• Prefers partial shade and organically rich, moist but well-drained soils. Rex begonias require high humidity and heavy fertilization during the growing period. Let the soil dry between waterings and avoid overwatering as it may cause fungal diseases or rot.
• Propagate by leaf cuttings or sections of rhizome
• No pruning is required. Remove dead leaves promptly and keep the soil surface free of debris to avoid disease problems.
• Watch for caterpillars, mealybugs, tarsonemid mites, thrips, vine weevil, aphids, and powder mildew.
• Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses.