(Begonia 'Cowardly Lion') bah-GO-nyah Genus:  Begonia Unlike many other shade garden plants with their cool blue colors, 'Cowardly Lion' rex begonia offers rich warm tones. Chocolate-colored leaf veins veil the golden leaves, which become darker with age and make a fine counterpoint to yellow-based foliage plants. -Rita Randolph, Rex begonias, Fine Gardening issue #120 Care:  Provide organic, sharp-draining soil in shade with lots of humidity. Water when soil is dry to the touch. Avoid soggy conditions, but do not allow plants to wilt. Do not fertilize too heavily. Remove dead leaves promptly and keep the soil surface free of debris to avoid disease problems. Propagation:  Leaf cuttings take up to six months to produce a new plant, but stem cuttings can root in about three weeks in favorable conditions. Problems:  Mildew, botrytis, mealybugs.

Overview

Height 6 in. to 12 in. Spread 6 in. to 12 in. Growth Habit Clumps Light Part Shade to Full Shade Moisture Medium Moisture Maintenance Low Characteristics Showy Foliage Foliage Color Colorful/Burgundy Foliage Uses Beds and Borders, Container, Suitable as Annual Style Woodland Garden Seasonal Interest Summer Interest Type Perennials