Alocasia Black Velvet Plant (Alocasia Reginula)

Alocasia Black Velvet Plant (Alocasia Reginula)

Alocasia Black Velvet is considered one of the ‘jewel Alocasias’ and part of the adored Aroid family. This unusual gem of a plant features deep green leaves so deep that they almost appear black. The silvery-white veins make an attractive contrast against the dark leaves and the undersides feature a splotchy magenta colour. The shape of the leaves is also unique as it resembles an ovate heart. When mature, the plant reaches about one to two feet in height.

Care for Alocasia plant

Sunlight:

Alocasias need bright, but indirect light. This is due to the plant’s natural habitat, on the forest floor beneath the tree canopy. Direct sun will cause the leaves to burn, so avoid placing your Alocasia in a spot where it’ll be exposed to the sun for a prolonged period. This plant is not tolerant of lower light conditions though, so make sure the space you’re placing yours in feels very bright

Water:

Alocasia prefers to sit in soil that is consistently and evenly moist. Allow the top 2-3″ to dry between watering to ensure the plant isn’t sitting in soil that is too wet. During the winter, Alocasias will go through a dormancy period and will require less frequent watering as the soil will take longer to dry. Alocasias can be susceptible to root rot and fungal infections if their soil doesn’t have proper drainage and becomes waterlogged, so we always advise potting these plants in a vessel with a drainage hole.

Fertilizer:

During spring and summer, the Alocasia Black Velvet will benefit from fertilizing once monthly. This plant isn’t a heavy feeder, so we recommend giving a diluted dose of any basic houseplant fertilizer (dilute or cut back to at least half the recommended amount). Again, too much isn’t a good thing and can cause other issues. And once fall approaches, you’ll want to stop supplementing with fertilizer as many houseplants, including the Black Velvet, will enter a semi-dormant stage. You’ll discontinue fertilizer (and any other stressful event that requires the plant to work) through the winter.

Repotting:

Alocasia Black Velvet will benefit from repotting. Not only will this allow room for the roots to continually grow, but fresh soil can rejuvenate the plant. You’ll need well-draining soil that also allows for high aeration since these roots want to breathe. In addition, only go up in size by roughly 1-2 inches in diameter. Too much room at once isn’t favourable and does not support the plant’s ability to grow.

Pay attention to the condition of your Alocasia and its watering needs and you will have a long and happy relationship.