Also known as Batflower · Black Lily · Cat's Whiskers
Tacca chantrieri, the Black Bat Flower, is an exotic tropical perennial prized for its dramatic, dark-purple to black flowers resembling bats with long, trailing bracteol
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, Indirect Light
75% intensity
Prefers dappled shade or bright, filtered light. Avoid direct sun.
Consistent Moisture
75% intensity
Maintain evenly moist soil, avoid waterlogging.
Rich, well-draining, humusy soil
50% intensity
Warm Temperatures
75% intensity
Prefers consistently warm temperatures between 20-25°C. Protect from cold drafts.
Moderate Feeding
50% intensity
Feed monthly during growth with diluted balanced fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering slightly during cooler months.
Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water, which can lead to root rot. Ensure good drainage.
Prune away any dead, damaged, or yellowing leaves as needed to maintain a tidy appearance and encourage healthy growth. Remove spent flower stalks to prevent energy waste. Generally, extensive pruning is not required.
Propagation is typically done through rhizome division during repotting. Carefully separate healthy sections of the rhizome, ensuring each piece has at least one growth bud.
Plant these divisions in well-draining potting mix.
Repot every 2-3 years, or when the rhizomes begin to fill the pot. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a blend for aroids or orchids. Repot in the spring before the active growing season begins.
Handle the rhizomes gently.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Black Bat Flower (Tacca chantrieri)
Where Black Bat Flower (Tacca chantrieri) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Dioscoreales |
| Family | Dioscoreaceae |
| Genus | Tacca |
| Species | Tacca chantrieri |
Similar in genus Tacca
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
