Tacca chantrieri - Black Bat Plant

Tacca chantrieri, commonly known as the Black Bat Plant, is a tropical rhizomatous plant known for its remarkable dark flower display. Broad, wing-shaped bracts surround clusters of small flowers, while numerous long, thread-like whiskers hang beneath them.

The large, glossy foliage also makes this an attractive plant when it is not flowering. It requires warm, humid and protected conditions and is best suited to experienced growers who can provide a stable tropical environment.

Care

• Light: Grow in bright, filtered light or a warm, shaded position. Protect the foliage from direct afternoon sun.
• Water: Keep the growing media evenly moist during active growth without allowing it to become waterlogged. Reduce watering when growth slows during cooler weather.
• Temperature: Maintain warm conditions and protect the plant from cold weather. Temperatures above approximately 13°C are recommended.
• Humidity: High humidity is important, together with gentle but consistent air circulation.
• Growing media: Use a rich, open and well-drained mix containing materials such as fine bark, peat moss and perlite.
• Feeding: Apply a diluted balanced or orchid fertiliser regularly while the plant is actively growing.

Key Characteristics

• Distinctive dark purple-brown to almost black floral bracts.
• Bat-shaped flower display with broad, wing-like bracts.
• Produces numerous long, trailing whisker-like bracteoles.
• Large, glossy green tropical foliage.
• Grows from an underground rhizome.
• Prefers warm, humid and protected growing conditions.
• Suitable for containers, warm glasshouses and shaded tropical gardens.
• Can enter a period of reduced growth during cooler weather.

Please note: Flower photographs show the mature flower for identification and reference. Plants may not be flowering when dispatched.