Begonia 'Hugh McLaughlin' (WA Prohibited)

Begonia rex 'Hugh McLaughlin' is a striking cultivar in the Begonia rex-cultorum group, recognised for its rich, deep-coloured foliage. The leaves are typically a deep burgundy or near-black, often overlaid with a soft silvery sheen and bordered with contrasting bright pink or crimson margins. This hybrid does not occur in nature but is derived from species originally found in subtropical forest understories of the eastern Himalayas and south-western China.

Care Tips:

• Light: Performs best in bright, indirect light; leaf colour may dull in low light
• Water: Keep evenly moist, allowing the top few centimetres to dry slightly between waterings
• Humidity: Benefits from humidity levels above 50%; dry air may lead to edge browning
• Media: Use a porous mix with peat or coir, perlite, and pine bark
• Temperature: Prefers 18-24°C; avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature drops
• Fertiliser: Feed with a diluted balanced fertiliser every 3-4 weeks during the growing season
• Repotting: Repot annually in spring if rootbound or growth slows

Additional Notes:

• Known to be toxic