B. ‘Francis’

New Rex Hybrids by HELEN K. KRAUSS Wynnewood, Pa. The introduction of Begonia Rex from Assam in 1856 aroused excitement and all plant lovers of that time wanted a seedling, cutting, plant or leaf. The species has been lost us but fortunately we have many Rex hybrids of outstanding beauty. As foliage plants, they rank second to none. In recent years some exceptional hybrids have been developed. at the Flaitz gardens in Ojai, California. Rex hybrids have been crossed with Rex hybrids; Rex hybrids with Evansiana, among which are some interesting miniatures and other unusual Rexes; and Rex hybrids with B. picta. B. Francis is an Evansiana x Rex hybrid. It appears to have inherited its form and manner of growth largely from Evansiana, the female parent, and its elegance and distinction from its father, a Rex hybrid, The background of the leaf is of a darker green than Evansiana and thicker in texture. The whole leaf is polka dotted with silver and each dot is studded with a red hair. The edge of the leaf is fringed with red hairs.
Pests Diseases

• Classification: Cultivar
• Plant Type: Rex Cultorum
• Origin: America, USA
• Originator: Flaitz
• Date of Origin: 1942