Definition

Noun: 1. A type of ornamental begonia plant: "king begonia" refers to any of a large group of hybrid begonias, typically grown from rhizomes (underground stems). These plants are primarily cultivated for their visually striking, textured foliage, which displays intricate patterns combining colors like silver, bronze, purple, and red-brown. Their flowers are small and not the main ornamental feature.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The king begonia is prized more for its beautiful leaves than for its blooms.
  • She added a king begonia to her collection of shade-loving plants.
  • The leaves of the king begonia had a stunning pattern of silver and purple.

Advanced Usage

• As a botanical specimen: The term is used in horticulture and gardening to categorize a specific group of hybrids known for their decorative foliage.
  • Among foliage plants, the king begonia holds a special place for its vibrant and complex leaf patterns.

Variants and Related Words

• Rex begonia: This is a common synonym for "king begonia." The hybrids are often derived from , a species native to parts of India and other regions in Asia.
  • The rex begonia on the windowsill is a type of king begonia.
• Foliage begonia: A descriptive term highlighting that the plant's main attraction is its leaves.
• Rhizomatous begonia: A term describing the growth habit (from rhizomes) common to these plants.

Synonyms

• Rex begonia
• Painted-leaf begonia (descriptive)
• Fancy-leaf begonia (descriptive)

Notes on Meaning

• The primary meaning of "king begonia" is botanical and refers to a specific category of ornamental plant. It is not used idiomatically or metaphorically in common language. The "king" in the name likely references the plant's showy, regal appearance.

Noun

1. any of numerous usually rhizomatous hybrid begonias derived from an East Indian plant having rough-textured leaves patterned in silver and bronze and purple and red-brown with inconspicuous flowers