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Begonia Venetian Red
Begonia Venetian Red
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Begonia ‘Venetian Red’: A Regal Touch of Ruby for Your Plant Collection
A Complete, Very Easy-to-Follow Growing and Care Guide for This Sophisticated Rex Begonia
If you're searching for a begonia with deep, rich color and a luxurious look, Begonia ‘Venetian Red’ is your answer. This Rex begonia delivers elegance and drama with its velvety, wine-colored leaves edged in silver or dark green. It’s the kind of plant that looks like it belongs in an art gallery—but it’s perfectly at home in your living room, office, or shaded garden space.
Whether you’re an experienced begonia grower or just getting started, ‘Venetian Red’ is a stunning, low-bloom foliage plant that brings lasting beauty and easy care.
What Makes Begonia ‘Venetian Red’ So Special?
This variety is prized for its deep red tones and refined, almost antique-looking finish. It’s moody, rich, and mesmerizing.
Here’s what makes it a standout:
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Leaf Color: Bold ruby red or burgundy centers that darken to plum, surrounded by silver, charcoal, or green margins.
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Texture: Soft, velvety foliage that looks plush and feels luxurious.
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Shape: Broad, heart-shaped or asymmetrical leaves with curled edges and heavy veining.
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Growth Habit: Compact and mounding, typically growing 10–14 inches tall and wide.
It’s not flashy in a loud way—it’s rich, grounded, and quietly dramatic, like candlelight on red velvet.
Light: Bright Indirect Light Keeps the Color Strong
‘Venetian Red’ thrives in bright, indirect light, which helps deepen the color and strengthen the shape.
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Indoors: Place it near an east-facing window or a few feet back from a west- or south-facing window with a sheer curtain.
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Outdoors: Grow only in full shade or areas with dappled morning light.
Direct sun will bleach the color and scorch the velvety leaves. Not enough light? You’ll get dull color and leggy growth.
Watering: Even and Balanced
This begonia likes to stay moist but not wet. Too dry, and the edges crisp. Too wet, and the roots rot.
Here’s how to water correctly:
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Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
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Always use a pot with drainage holes.
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Avoid overhead watering—wet leaves can develop mildew or brown spots.
Stick to a steady routine, and your plant will reward you with strong, healthy foliage.
Humidity: The More the Merrier
Rex begonias—including ‘Venetian Red’—love humidity. Aim for 50–60% humidity or higher.
To boost humidity:
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Run a small humidifier nearby.
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Place your pot on a tray of pebbles and water (without touching the water).
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Group it with other plants to create a humid microclimate.
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Consider a glass cabinet or terrarium if your home is dry.
Low humidity can dull the leaf color and cause browning edges. Keep the air moist, and the red will glow like velvet.
Soil: Light, Loose, and Draining Well
Use a soil mix that holds moisture but doesn’t stay soggy.
Try this mix:
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1 part peat moss or coco coir
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1 part perlite
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1 part lightweight potting soil
You can also use a pre-mixed begonia or African violet soil, which is usually perfect right out of the bag.
Feeding: A Monthly Boost
Feed monthly in spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength.
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Don’t feed in fall or winter—the plant’s growth slows down naturally.
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Avoid overfeeding—it can cause root burn or stretched, weak stems.
A light, regular feeding routine keeps the leaves lush and helps support new growth.
Temperature: Keep It Warm and Cozy
‘Venetian Red’ is happiest in 60–75°F.
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Protect it from cold drafts, AC vents, or heaters.
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Never let it drop below 55°F.
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If growing outdoors in summer, bring it inside before the temperatures dip.
Warm, steady temperatures support strong color and compact shape.
Grooming and Maintenance
This is a low-maintenance plant, but a little grooming helps it thrive.
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Remove old, faded, or damaged leaves to make room for new growth.
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Pinch back long stems to encourage a fuller, more rounded shape.
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Wipe leaves gently with a damp cloth to remove dust and show off their rich texture.
A little attention goes a long way in keeping your begonia photo-ready.
Propagation: Yes, You Can Grow More Reds
You can propagate ‘Venetian Red’ with leaf cuttings or rhizome division.
Leaf cutting method:
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Cut a healthy leaf with a short stem.
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Press it into moist soil or lay it flat with small cuts in the veins.
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Cover with a humidity dome or clear plastic.
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Keep in bright, indirect light and wait for baby plantlets to appear.
It’s an easy, rewarding way to expand your collection or share with friends.
Common Problems to Watch For
Like all Rex begonias, ‘Venetian Red’ needs a watchful eye and a steady hand.
Potential issues:
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Powdery mildew: Prevent by spacing plants and avoiding wet leaves.
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Spider mites: Boost humidity and treat early with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
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Root rot: Caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil.
Stick to a routine and provide good airflow, and your plant will stay healthy and vibrant.
Styling Tips: Let It Be the Jewel of the Room
This plant has regal energy—use it to your advantage in your home design.
Try this:
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Pair it with dark or neutral-toned pots to make the red pop.
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Group it with silver or green foliage for a bold contrast.
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Display on a low table, shelf, or under a grow light for consistent color.
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Use as a focal point in a begonia collection, alongside ‘Harmony Red Robin,’ ‘Spitfire,’ or ‘Twisted Sister.’
It’s a natural centerpiece—subtle in size, bold in beauty.
Why You’ll Love Begonia ‘Venetian Red’
It’s rich. It’s moody. It’s stunning. And it’s easier to grow than you’d think.
You’ll love it because:
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It offers year-round drama without flowers
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It’s compact and perfect for indoor spaces
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It brings color, texture, and elegance
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It’s easy to propagate and share
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It gives you the timeless beauty of red velvet in plant form
So if you’re looking to add a bold, romantic, and easy-care beauty to your plant collection, Begonia ‘Venetian Red’ is a perfect choice. It’s graceful, grounded, and ready to shine.
