Begonia Steve's Leaves Paradox

Begonia ‘Steve’s Leaves Paradox’: A Marvel of Contrasts and Living Texture
A Complete, Easy-to-Follow Care Guide for This Striking Collector’s Rex Begonia

Looking for a begonia that stops people in their tracks? One that plays with color, contrast, and symmetry like a fine piece of modern art? Meet Begonia ‘Steve’s Leaves Paradox’—a foliage masterpiece bred for collectors who crave the unexpected. This Rex begonia variety lives up to its name by being both bold and refined, soft and structured, mysterious yet attention-grabbing.

From the famed team at Steve’s Leaves, ‘Paradox’ blends elegance with edge—and it absolutely deserves a front-row spot in your plant collection.

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What Makes Begonia ‘Paradox’ So Special?

This begonia is all about contrast. The leaves feature sharply divided color zones, typically with:

• A deep, velvety black center, sometimes purplish in tone

• Bright silver or white outer bands, creating a stark and eye-catching split

• Defined, jagged margins that accentuate the leaf shape

• A textured surface with subtle shimmer and strong veining

• Broad, asymmetrical leaves that twist and curl for added movement

Its growth habit is compact and mounding—usually around 8–12 inches tall and wide—but every single leaf is a statement.

It’s a paradox in the best way: both structured and wild, subtle and showy.

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Light: Bright Indirect for the Best Contrast

To keep the silver tones bold and the dark center deep, provide bright, indirect light.

• Indoors: Best near an east-facing window or under grow lights. North-facing windows also work well.

• Outdoors: Grow only in full shade or very dappled morning light. Too much sun will scorch the leaves or wash out the color.

If the contrast starts to blur or the plant stretches, give it more light. Just avoid direct rays—this is a shade-lover.

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Watering: Keep It Consistent, Not Wet

‘Paradox’ needs even moisture to thrive—but soggy roots are a hard no.

Here’s your watering routine:

• Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.

• Always use pots with excellent drainage.

• Avoid splashing the leaves, which can encourage mildew or spotting.

• Reduce watering slightly in winter, but don’t let it go bone-dry.

A moisture meter can help if you’re unsure, or just stick your finger in the soil.

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Humidity: Give It That Jungle Glow

Rex begonias love humidity, and ‘Paradox’ is no exception. Aim for 50–60% humidity or higher.

Ways to raise humidity:

• Place on a pebble tray with water (keep the pot above the waterline).

• Run a small humidifier, especially during winter.

• Group it with other humidity-loving plants.

• Grow it in a plant cabinet or terrarium for easy climate control.

Dry air leads to crispy edges. Humid air keeps the foliage lush and dramatic.

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Soil: Light, Loose, and Drains Well

Rex begonias need airflow at the roots. Use a light, well-draining mix that stays moist but never heavy.

Try this blend:

• 1 part coco coir or peat moss

• 1 part perlite or pumice

• 1 part high-quality potting mix

Or pick up a begonia mix or African violet mix—these usually get the job done perfectly.

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Feeding: Light, Regular Meals

Feed monthly during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength.

• Stop feeding in fall and winter when the plant slows down.

• Don’t overdo it—too much fertilizer can burn roots and fade colors.

Light feeding supports strong leaf growth and keeps the colors sharp.

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Temperature: Warm and Even

‘Paradox’ thrives in temperatures between 60–75°F.

• Avoid cold drafts and temperature swings.

• Keep away from heaters and AC vents.

• Never expose it to temps below 55°F—cold will damage the leaves.

If grown outdoors in summer, be sure to bring it inside well before fall chills arrive.

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Grooming and Maintenance

Regular care keeps your ‘Paradox’ looking perfect:

• Remove dead or yellowing leaves to prevent rot and improve airflow.

• Pinch back long stems if it starts to get leggy.

• Wipe leaves gently to remove dust and keep the shimmer visible.

This plant stays naturally compact, but a little grooming goes a long way.

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Propagation: Multiply the Magic

Want more paradox in your life? You can propagate via leaf cuttings or rhizome division.

Leaf cutting method:

1. Cut a healthy leaf with a bit of stem.

2. Press into moist soil or make slits in the veins and lay it flat.

3. Cover with plastic or a humidity dome.

4. Place in bright, indirect light.

5. New plantlets form within a few weeks—ready to pot up and share!

This is a great way to expand your begonia collection or gift to fellow enthusiasts.

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Pests and Problems

Like most Rex begonias, ‘Paradox’ is relatively trouble-free with the right care. But watch out for:

• Powdery mildew – Improve airflow, avoid wet leaves, and treat early with fungicide if needed.

• Spider mites – Dry air invites them; increase humidity and treat with neem oil.

• Mealybugs – Wipe off and treat with insecticidal soap or rubbing alcohol.

Keeping your space clean and humidity stable helps prevent most issues.

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Styling Tips: Make It a Focal Point

This is not a background plant. Give it space to shine.

Try these display ideas:

• Pot in matte black or silver containers to mirror its leaf tones.

• Feature solo on a shelf or stand, where its contrast can be admired.

• Pair with solid green foliage plants to highlight its wild variegation.

• Add to a begonia collection next to ‘Escargot,’ ‘Twisted Sister,’ or ‘Fireworks’ for maximum drama.

‘Paradox’ is modern, elegant, and perfect for elevated plant design.

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Why You’ll Love Begonia ‘Steve’s Leaves Paradox’

This isn’t just a plant—it’s a living piece of art. With bold foliage, compact growth, and collector appeal, it’s the kind of begonia that earns gasps from fellow plant lovers.

You’ll love it because:

• Its leaf contrast is unlike anything else

• It’s compact and manageable for small spaces

• It’s a low-bloom, high-style plant—perfect for foliage lovers

• It’s easy to propagate and grow indoors

• It brings modern elegance and bold beauty to any room

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If you're ready to add a plant that turns heads and keeps you inspired, Begonia ‘Steve’s Leaves Paradox’ is your perfect match.