Alocasia reginula aka Alocasia Black Velvet
Taxonomy
Alocasia reginula, also known as 'Black Velvet' or 'Jewel Alocasia', is a species of flowering cormous aroid native to Sabah state in Malaysia. It has recently become increasingly popular among plant hobbyists, and until recently was solely known from cultivation. This specimen was first described from cultivation, but was recently found in the wild in Tabin Wildlife Reserve, growing in dry, deeply shaded limestone cliffs. Alocasia reginula is a pretty miniature houseplant, with big, lush, almost black leaves and contrasting, silver veins. The leaves look velvet-like but are smooth to the touch. Its ancestors first appeared 24 million years ago in Borneo, the largest island in Asia, and it was named a plant variety by Scott Hyndman. As a houseplant, Alocasia reginula needs sharp drainage to avoid rotting, with an acceptable substrate amendment including perlite, pumice, small to medium orchid bark, coconut coir, coconut chips, sphagnum moss, LECA, or a combination of some or all. When planted in pure sphagnum moss, Alocasia reginula will thrive.
Common names
Alocasia Black Velvet, Black VelvetHow to care for Alocasia Black Velvet
Difficulty
With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for Alocasia Black Velvet, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.
Water
Alocasia Black Velvet should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Alocasia Black Velvet loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Alocasia Black Velvet prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Dormancy
During the wintertime, it is common for Alocasia Black Velvet plants to go dormant and their growth rate may slow down. Therefore, the amount of waterings should be spaced out more.
Toxicity
Alocasia Black Velvet is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.
Humidity
The Alocasia Black Velvet is not in need of supplementary humidity. Most water is taken in by plants through their roots, thus soil watering is the most efficient way to provide humidity to your plants.
Fertilizer
The Alocasia Black Velvet should be repotted either when it doubles in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing new potting soil with all the vital nutrients annually is enough to support the growth of the plant, and thus, there is no need for fertilizer. Remember that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.
Growth-pattern
The Alocasia Black Velvet is clumping in nature, with new growth originating from the soil in close proximity to the original plant.
Region of origin
Alocasia Black Velvet’s native range is tropical and subtropical Asia and Eastern Australia.
Flower
If you provide your Alocasia Black Velvet with adequate amounts of sunlight and water, it will bloom.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Alocasia Genus
Alocasia wentii Alocasia Elephant Ears
Alocasia odora Asian Taro
Alocasia princeps Alocasia Purple Cloak
Alocasia brisbanensis Cunjevoi
Alocasia boa Upright Elephant Ear
Alocasia nebula Alocasia Nebula
Alocasia Taro
