Need Help w/Identifying Mystery Plant

I purchased this plant at a local nursery on Sunday. It was not labeled (of course) - but it was so different looking, that I had to get one. I asked the girl at the register if she knew what kind it was . . . you know what she said? "It's a houseplant". . . . Gee, thanks - I had worked that out for myself! (told her that, too!).

Does this look familiar to anyone? I've taken 2 pictures - the second one is a bit fuzzy, but I wanted to try and get a closeup of the leaf - it looks like a giant leaf w/goosebumps - w/a little hair sticking out of each bump.

I'd appreciate any help!

Nichole

Here's the second pic:

Nichole, I looks like a begonia-Iron Cross.
http://davesgarden.com/pf/go/59462/index.html

This message was edited Sep 13, 2005 7:17 PM

Wow - it does! The purple pattern is slightly off - but maybe once the baby leaves grow out a bit they'll look more consistent with the Iron Cross.

Thanks!

I too was thinking Iron Cross Begonia.

c v v

It is definitely the 'Iron Cross' rex begonia. Good for you!

OOH, I hate it when I know the answer and someone beats me to it! :) It's so rare that I know one :)

Sarah

I would have at least said begonia. Considering that I got my first begonia yesterday, I was pretty proud to be that close! :)

Thank you all for your help. They had another one at the nursery, except with a silver green leaf . . . I may go back and get that one next week.

I took this one to work the other day. I thought it would like the lighting better. Seems to have perked up a bit.

Without looking at the other responses I would say it is some sort of Pepperomia.

Now, I'll go look at the other answers. LOL

Joan

Iron Cross really loves humidity, you may want to put a pebble tray under it in your office if it's too dry. There are three var. of Iron Cross.
B. masoniana var. 'Tricolor',
B. masoniana var. maculata
and
B. masoniana (i believe this is yours based on your photos)

You have DMail
Cheers,
Laurie