The Alocasia Black Velvet (Alocasia reginula) is a popular houseplant known for its striking, deep green to nearly black foliage. Its leaves have a unique velvety texture and prominent silver veins. While admired for its ornamental leaves, this tropical plant can also produce a bloom. This article explores the characteristics of the Alocasia Black Velvet bloom and actions to consider when your plant flowers.
The Alocasia Black Velvet Bloom
The Alocasia Black Velvet bloom is a typical aroid inflorescence, featuring a spathe and a spadix. The spathe is a modified leaf that encloses the spadix, which is a fleshy spike where tiny flowers are arranged. For Alocasia Black Velvet, the spathe is usually pale green to creamy white, sometimes with a yellowish tint, and measures 2 to 4 inches. The spadix, nestled within, is typically shorter and a similar light color.
Indoor Alocasia Black Velvet plants do not commonly bloom. When they do, it signals a mature plant thriving in favorable conditions. While structurally interesting, the bloom is secondary to the plant’s dramatic foliage. Its appearance is subtle, lacking the vibrant colors or strong fragrances of many other flowering plants.
Factors Influencing Blooming
Several environmental factors contribute to blooming, signaling a mature and well-established plant. The plant thrives in bright, indirect light, mimicking its natural habitat. Suitable illumination is provided near an east or north-facing window, or a few feet back from a south or west-facing window. Consistent watering is also important; allow the top inch or two of soil to dry between waterings to prevent drought stress and root rot.
High humidity, ideally above 60%, benefits this tropical species and supports blooming. A stable temperature range, between 65°F and 80°F (18°C-27°C), also promotes a healthy environment. Balanced nutrition from a diluted liquid fertilizer during the active growing season (spring and summer) further supports the plant’s energy reserves. Meeting these conditions consistently allows the plant to accumulate enough energy to bloom.
What To Do When Your Plant Blooms
When an Alocasia Black Velvet blooms, owners must decide whether to keep it. While not harmful, flowering consumes significant energy, potentially diverting resources from new foliage or existing leaf vibrancy. For many enthusiasts, the foliage is the primary aesthetic appeal, making the bloom less desirable.
If removing the bloom, prune it once it fades or if the plant shows signs of stress, such as yellowing leaves or stunted new growth. Use clean, sharp shears or a knife to cut the flower stalk as close to the plant’s base as possible. Allowing the bloom to remain is also an option, especially if you wish to observe its full development.
Post-Bloom Considerations
After an Alocasia Black Velvet blooms, the plant enters a recovery phase. The energy expended during flowering means the plant needs time to recuperate. While indoor Alocasia rarely produce viable seeds from blooms, the plant’s biological inclination is to put energy into potential seed development.
Consistent care is important during this post-bloom period to help the plant regain strength. Continue to provide optimal light, watering, humidity, and temperature. Monitor the plant for signs of stress, like slowed growth or leaf discoloration, to adjust care as needed. Blooming indicates the plant has been well-cared for and reached maturity.