Basic Information about your Begonia

Scientific name: Begonia rex ‘Black Mamba’

Common names: Black Mamba Rex Begonia

Plant type: Tropical perennial ornamental plant

Family: Begoniaceae

Native range: Hybrid cultivar (parent species originate from tropical Asia, primarily India and surrounding regions)

Natural habitat: Cultivated plant; parent Begonia rex species naturally grow in shaded, humid forest understories

Difficulty level: Intermediate

Fun fact: Begonia Rex ‘Black Mamba’ is prized for its dramatic dark green to almost black foliage with metallic silver patterns and deep red undersides, giving it a bold, striking presence indoors

How to care for your Black Mamba Rex Begonia

It likes bright indirect light. It can tolerate lower light conditions.

WATER

This Begonia needs soil moist, and water when it's 50% dry.

HUMIDITY

Your Begonia needs 70%+ humidity.

TEMPERATURE

Your Begonia does well in temperatures between 70-90 degrees.

FOOD

It likes to be fed monthly or every other month with some general indoor plant fertilizer. 

PET- FRIENDLYNESS

It's harmful to pets if ingested.

Additional Tips*
Use a well-draining substrate, such as a mixture of coconut fiber, perlite, pine bark, and activated charcoal. This ensures good aeration and prevents excess humidity.

The acclimation process takes a toll on begonias, so if they drop a few leaves, don't worry it will spring back in no time

This plant will benefit from garden stakes. When it reaches to maturity it becomes top heavy and could potentially break

  • Curling Leaves

    Leaves may curl when the plant is stressed by dryness, temperature changes, or low humidity. Keep the environment stable and avoid sudden temperature changes.

  • Soft or Mushy Leaves

    Soft or mushy leaves can be a sign of too much moisture and stressed roots. Reduce watering and check the roots for signs of rot.

  • Leaf Spots

    Dark or brown spots can appear when foliage stays wet or the plant experiences environmental stress. Keep water off the leaves and remove heavily affected foliage.

  • Crispy Leaf Edges

    Brown, crispy edges can come from dry conditions, inconsistent watering, or environmental stress. Keep watering consistent and increase humidity if the air is very dry.

  • Powdery Mildew

    A white, powdery coating can develop on leaves when conditions are humid with poor airflow. Improve air circulation and remove heavily affected leaves.

  • Droopy Leaves

    Drooping usually means the plant is thirsty or experiencing environmental stress. Check the soil and water thoroughly if the top portion feels dry.

  • Yellow Leaves

    Yellow leaves are commonly caused by excess moisture or naturally aging foliage. Let the soil dry slightly between waterings and remove heavily yellowed leaves.

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