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Begonia Spitfire
Begonia Spitfire
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Begonia ‘Spitfire’: Explosive Color and Spirited Charm in One Bold Plant
A Complete, Easy-to-Follow Growing and Care Guide for This Fiery Rex Begonia
If you love plants that don’t hold back—plants with fiery color, energetic patterns, and bold texture—Begonia ‘Spitfire’ is ready to ignite your collection. This Rex begonia earns its name with a hot, high-contrast look that sets it apart. With glowing red, copper, and silver foliage framed by dark edges, ‘Spitfire’ feels like a living flame in a pot. It’s bold, dramatic, and utterly unforgettable.
Whether you're new to Rex begonias or a seasoned foliage fanatic, ‘Spitfire’ is one plant that brings the heat—and keeps your growing space exciting.
What Makes Begonia ‘Spitfire’ So Striking?
It’s all about the foliage fireworks. This plant looks like it’s been painted with molten metal and firelight.
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Leaf Color: Bright crimson to scarlet centers, brushed with silver tones and edged in deep bronze or near-black.
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Leaf Shape: Broad, slightly curled and ruffled, creating movement and texture in every leaf.
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Texture: Velvety and rich, with a touch of shimmer under the right lighting.
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Growth Habit: Compact and clumping—usually about 10 to 14 inches tall and wide.
This begonia brings visual energy wherever it grows. It’s not shy—it’s a statement.
Light Needs: Bright, Indirect Light Is Best
‘Spitfire’ shows its best colors when it gets bright, indirect light.
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Indoors: An east- or north-facing window is ideal. South- or west-facing windows work if filtered with a sheer curtain.
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Outdoors: Only grow in full shade or dappled morning light. Direct sun will scorch the leaves and wash out the color.
Insufficient light causes color fading and legginess, while too much sun causes crispy edges. Keep it balanced and you’ll see those reds glow.
Watering: Keep It Even, Not Wet
Like most Rex begonias, ‘Spitfire’ likes consistent moisture, but it despises soggy roots.
Here’s the rhythm:
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Water when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.
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Use a pot with good drainage to prevent root rot.
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Water at the base—not over the leaves, which can lead to mildew or spotting.
Keep the watering steady and adjust based on seasonal humidity and temperature.
Humidity: It Loves It Humid and Cozy
‘Spitfire’ loves moderate to high humidity, ideally around 50–60% or more.
To keep it happy:
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Use a humidifier, especially during winter or in dry climates.
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Place on a tray of pebbles and water (without the pot sitting in the water).
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Group it with other humidity-loving plants to create a microclimate.
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Grow in a terrarium or cabinet for extra control over humidity levels.
Low humidity may lead to crisp leaf edges and stunted growth. With good humidity, it thrives.
Soil: Loose, Airy, and Moisture-Friendly
Rex begonias like soil that stays moist but never compacted or wet.
Try this blend:
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1 part coco coir or peat moss
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1 part perlite or coarse sand
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1 part light potting mix
A pre-blended African violet or begonia mix is also a great choice.
Feeding: Feed the Flame
Feed monthly in spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength.
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Don’t fertilize in fall or winter, when the plant naturally rests.
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Avoid overfeeding—too much can burn the roots or cause lanky growth.
Consistent, light feeding helps it maintain bold color and lush growth.
Temperature: Warm and Stable Wins
Keep your begonia comfortable with temps between 60–75°F.
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Avoid cold drafts or sharp temperature swings.
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Never expose it to temperatures below 55°F.
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If grown outdoors in summer, bring it indoors well before autumn chills arrive.
Stable warmth encourages bold leaf color and keeps the plant growing strong.
Grooming and Maintenance
‘Spitfire’ doesn’t ask for much—but a little cleanup keeps it glowing.
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Remove dead or faded leaves regularly.
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Pinch back any leggy stems to encourage bushier growth.
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Wipe leaves gently with a soft cloth to remove dust and keep the shimmer bright.
Grooming isn’t just aesthetic—it improves airflow and helps prevent mildew or pests.
Propagation: Share the Fire
You can easily propagate ‘Spitfire’ using leaf cuttings or rhizome division.
To propagate by leaf:
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Take a mature, healthy leaf and cut it with a short petiole (stem).
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Press into moist soil or lay flat with cuts along the main veins.
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Cover with plastic or a humidity dome.
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Keep in bright, indirect light and maintain humidity.
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Baby plants should appear within 2–4 weeks.
It’s a rewarding way to expand your collection or gift to a fellow plant enthusiast.
Pest and Problem Watch
Here’s what to keep an eye on:
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Powdery mildew – Avoid splashing the leaves and make sure there’s airflow.
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Spider mites – Especially in dry air; boost humidity and treat early with neem oil.
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Root rot – Caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Always check the soil before watering.
Prevention is easier than cure—just keep your growing space clean, consistent, and breathable.
Styling Tips: Let It Be the Flame in Your Display
Begonia ‘Spitfire’ brings color and movement, so give it a spotlight.
Ideas to showcase it:
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Pot it in a deep black or metallic container to make the red and silver pop.
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Place it in the center of a foliage grouping for contrast.
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Grow it in a glass-front cabinet or plant shelf under grow lights.
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Pair with other bold begonias, like ‘Fireworks,’ ‘Harmony Fire Woman,’ or ‘Twisted Sister’ for a stunning, flame-toned collection.
It doesn’t just add greenery—it adds fire to your indoor jungle.
Why You’ll Love Begonia ‘Spitfire’
This plant lives up to its name—it’s dramatic, high-energy, and ready to shine.
You’ll love it because:
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Its foliage is bold, unique, and electric
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It thrives in containers and indoor displays
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It’s compact but full of presence
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It’s fun to propagate and easy to groom
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It adds a splash of fire and personality to any room
So if you're ready to turn up the heat in your plant collection, let Begonia ‘Spitfire’ bring the bold. It’s the perfect pick for those who like their plants with a little attitude—and a lot of color.
