Tacca chantrieri
Tacca chantrieri
Bat Flower
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Taxonomy
Family Dioscoreaceae · Genus Tacca
Description
Tacca chantrieri, the Bat Flower, is a dramatic tropical with dusky, bat-like bracts and long whiskers that steal the show. It thrives in warm, humid, shaded spots with evenly moist, airy soil—perfect for a bright bathroom, greenhouse, or shaded patio in the tropics.
Common Names
Bat FlowerBlack Bat PlantDevil FlowerCat’s Whiskers TaccaBlack Tacca
Context
nativeRegion
Understory of tropical forests in Southeast Asia (Thailand, Malaysia, and southern China).
usdaZones
10–11 outdoors; commonly grown indoors/greenhouse elsewhere.
companionPlants
Calathea (Goeppertia), Ferns (e.g., Nephrolepis), Anthurium, Philodendron, Phalaenopsis Orchids, Fittonia
culturalUses
Primarily ornamental—valued as a striking specimen in shade gardens, conservatories, and botanical collections; a conversation piece for exotic indoor displays.
Care
Care Requirements
LightBright, filtered light to medium shade; avoid harsh direct sun. Morning sun only if gentle.
WateringKeep evenly moist but never waterlogged. Let the top 1–2 cm dry slightly between waterings; reduce in winter rest. Use rain or distilled water if possible.
SoilLoose, humus-rich, well-drained, slightly acidic mix (e.g., fine bark + coco coir/peat + perlite). Excellent aeration is key.
FertilizerFeed at 1/4–1/2 strength with a balanced fertilizer every 3–4 weeks spring–early fall. Flush salts periodically; avoid heavy feeding.
HumidityHigh humidity 60–80% with good airflow; use a humidifier or pebble tray in dry homes.
TemperatureWarm: 70–85°F (21–29°C) days, 65–72°F (18–22°C) nights. Avoid temps below 60°F (15°C) and cold drafts.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitEvergreen, rhizomatous clumping perennial with large, glossy leaves and tall flower spikes.
Mature SizeAbout 2–3 ft (60–90 cm) tall and wide; inflorescences can rise to similar height.
Growth RateModerate growth with proper warmth and humidity; slower in suboptimal conditions.
BloomingTypically spring through late summer (sometimes into fall) in warm, humid conditions; dramatic dark bracts with long ‘whiskers.’
DormancyLight winter rest; growth slows and may shed some leaves. Keep warm and slightly drier, but do not allow to fully dry out.
Propagation
MethodsDivision of rhizomes, Seed
DifficultyModerate by division; challenging and slow from seed.
Best SeasonSpring to early summer, when active growth resumes.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningRemove yellowing leaves and spent flower stalks at the base to encourage fresh growth and tidy form.
RepottingRepot every 1–2 years in spring as roots fill the pot. Use a wide, shallow container with fast drainage; handle rhizomes gently.
Pests & DiseasesWatch for spider mites, mealybugs, and scale—especially in dry air. Susceptible to root rot and fungal leaf spots if overwatered or poorly ventilated.
ToxicityNo well-documented toxicity; generally considered low risk, but sap may irritate sensitive skin. Best kept out of reach of pets and children.
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