How to Grow Begonia 'Looking Glass'
Begonia 'Looking Glass'
Begonia rex 'Looking Glass'
flowerBegonia 'Looking Glass' is a dramatic rex begonia cultivar prized for its striking silvery-white leaves with dark green veining that resembles a looking glass or mirror. The foliage is the main attraction, with burgundy undersides and a velvety texture that makes it a stunning houseplant. Small pink or white flowers may appear, but are secondary to the ornamental foliage.
When should you plant Begonia 'Looking Glass' in your zone?
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Example Begonia 'Looking Glass' timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Begonia 'Looking Glass'
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Begonia 'Looking Glass' blooms
Mid-to-late summerBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Begonia 'Looking Glass' dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 10-11 outdoors; grown as a tender houseplant elsewhere
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Get my Begonia 'Looking Glass' timeline →Growth Stages
Dormancy/Rest
1-2 months, typically winterPlant appears to slow or rest, leaves may reduce in number; may lose some foliage naturally
Reduce watering significantly; maintain cooler temperatures (60-65°F); provide bright indirect light; avoid fertilizing
Active Growth
2-3 monthsNew leaves emerge from the center rhizome, developing the characteristic silvery-white coloring with dark veining
Maintain consistent moisture; provide humidity 50-70%; fertilize monthly with diluted balanced fertilizer; ensure bright indirect light
Foliage Development
2-3 monthsLeaves expand and mature, displaying full silvery metallic appearance and velvety texture; plant becomes fuller
Continue consistent care; rotate plant weekly for even growth; maintain humidity with pebble trays or humidifier; pinch stems to encourage bushiness
Blooming
4-6 weeks, sporadicSmall delicate pink or white flowers may emerge on branching stems above foliage; not the main ornamental feature
Deadhead flowers if desired to direct energy to foliage; continue normal watering and light schedule
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Increase humidity; mist leaves with neem oil solution; isolate affected plant; spray every 7-10 days until resolved
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Dab with alcohol on cotton swab; spray with insecticidal soap; improve air circulation; quarantine plant
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Reduce humidity slightly; improve air circulation; treat with sulfur dust or fungicide; remove affected leaves
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Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; ensure excellent drainage; repot in fresh mix; reduce humidity
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Remove affected leaves immediately; reduce watering; improve air flow; avoid misting foliage; apply fungicide if severe
Uses
Striking Indoor Display Plant
HouseholdBegonia 'Looking Glass' is an exceptional houseplant for bright interiors, terrariums, or humid plant vitrines. Its silvery mirrored foliage creates a dramatic focal point in any room and adds a tropical, luxurious aesthetic. [source]
Floral Arrangements & Plant Collections
CraftThe striking foliage makes this begonia valuable for tropical-themed plant collections and luxury houseplant displays. Leaves can occasionally be used in pressed flower crafts. [source]
Traditional Folk Medicine
MedicinalSome begonia species have been used in traditional medicine systems for their potential anti-inflammatory and astringent properties, though scientific evidence is limited and usage should be cautious. [source]
Humidity Indicator & Air Quality
HouseholdThe sensitivity of 'Looking Glass' to humidity and air quality makes it an excellent indicator plant for home environmental conditions. Thriving specimens indicate optimal humidity levels (50-70%) for human comfort. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
This is an ornamental foliage plant; no harvesting for use. Propagate by dividing rhizomes in spring (each piece needs at least one growth point) or from leaf cuttings placed in humid, well-draining propagation mix. Leaf cuttings take 4-8 weeks to develop plantlets.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Begonia 'Looking Glass' is named for its distinctive silvery-white leaves that resemble a polished mirror or looking glass, creating an almost metallic shimmer in bright indirect light.
- 🌱 Rex begonias have been hybridized for over 150 years, originating from a single species discovered in Assam, India in 1858, and 'Looking Glass' represents decades of selective breeding for foliage patterns.
- 🌱 Unlike most begonias, rex begonias are grown primarily for their foliage rather than flowers, making them unique among begonia groups and prized by tropical houseplant collectors.
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