Sunburn from direct sun
Dry, bleached, faded patches on the side facing the window are sunburn.
Diagnosis
Sunburn from direct sun
What's happening
Rex begonias evolved on shaded forest floors, and their colorful leaves are built for bright but indirect light. When strong direct rays hit them through glass, the tissue scorches into dry, washed-out brown-to-bleached patches, and the dramatic silver and burgundy coloring fades flat on the most exposed leaves.
How to fix it
Move the plant back from the window or to a spot with bright, indirect light, or soften the harsh rays with a sheer curtain. The scorched and faded patches won't recover, so trim badly damaged leaves at the rhizome if you want a tidier look — new growth will come in with full color once the plant is out of direct sun.
What fixes it
- A full-spectrum LED grow light — If a harsh window was your only light, a grow light gives the even, gentle brightness rex begonias need without scorching.
If that doesn't fix it
This is general guidance based on common symptoms; individual plants vary.
Read the full Rex Begonia care guide →
Reviewed June 2026 · how we check this