Tacca chantrieri
TAXONOMY
FamilyDioscoreaceae
GenusTacca
Zone10
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Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Tacca chantrieri, commonly known as the Bat Flower, is a unique and exotic plant native to the tropical regions of Southeast Asia. It is known for its striking black flowers that resemble a bat in flight, complete with long 'whiskers.' This rhizomatous geophyte thrives in wet, tropical climates and has a dormancy period of about two months.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Black Bat Flower
Clerodendrum Esquirolii
Schizocapsa Itagakii
Schizocapsa breviscapa
Tacca esquirolii
Tacca garrettii
Tacca lancifolia var. breviscapa
Tacca macrantha
Tacca minor
Tacca paxiana
Tacca roxburghii
Tacca vespertilio
Tacca wilsonii
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterVery Wet
SoilLoamy
LightIndirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity80%
Dormancy2 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
The Bat Flower requires bright, indirect light and high humidity to thrive. It prefers moderate temperatures and should be kept away from drafts. Water the plant regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.Soil
Tacca chantrieri prefers a well-draining, loamy soil that retains moisture. A mix of peat, perlite, and loam works well. The soil should be kept consistently moist, but good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season. Reduce feeding during the dormancy period.Repotting
Repot the Bat Flower every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its pot. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one and ensure it has good drainage. Repot in the spring before the growing season begins.Propagation
Propagate Tacca chantrieri by dividing the rhizomes. This is best done in the spring. Carefully separate the rhizomes, ensuring each division has at least one growing point, and plant them in a suitable soil mix.Pruning
Pruning is not generally required for the Bat Flower. Remove any dead or yellowing leaves to maintain the plant's appearance and health.Toxicity
Tacca chantrieri is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, it is always best to keep plants out of reach of pets and children to avoid any potential issues.Additional
The Bat Flower can be a bit challenging to grow due to its specific humidity and light requirements. Using a humidity tray or a humidifier can help maintain the necessary moisture levels. Regularly misting the plant can also be beneficial.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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