Black Bat Flower

The care of Tacca chantrieri requires a certain amount of attention, as it prefers specific conditions that mimic its natural environment:

• Light: This plant prefers bright, indirect light or partial shade. Avoid direct sunlight as this can burn the delicate leaves and flowers.
• Temperature: It thrives best in a warm climate with temperatures between 18 °C and 30 °C. The plant should be protected from cold and draughts. Temperatures below 15 °C can damage it.
• Humidity: Tacca chantrieri loves high humidity (over 60 %). Regular spraying or placing it on a tray filled with water and pebbles helps to increase the humidity around the plant.
• Watering: Always keep the soil evenly moist without soaking it. Avoid waterlogging as this can lead to root rot. Watering should be reduced in winter as the plant then goes through a dormant phase.
• Dormancy: During the winter months, Tacca chantrieri may lose its leaves. This is a natural part of its cycle. It should be watered less during this time until new growth starts again in spring.

Tacca chantrieri prefers a well-drained, humus-rich soil that can still retain sufficient moisture. A mixture of high-quality potting soil, orchid substrate and peat moss is ideal to ensure that the roots are well aerated. A loose, slightly acidic soil mixture (pH value of around 6 to 6.5) provides optimum conditions for growth. The substrate should be loosened regularly to avoid waterlogging.

Fertilise the plant every fortnight during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, liquid fertiliser designed for indoor plants. Do not use fertiliser in winter as the plant is dormant during this time.