Alocasia reginula
Alocasia reginula
Black Velvet
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Description
Alocasia reginula, known as Black Velvet, is a compact jewel alocasia prized for its velvety, nearly black leaves etched with bright silver veins. It thrives in bright, indirect light, high humidity, and an airy, fast‑draining mix. Slow-growing but stunning, it’s perfect for small spaces and collectors alike.
Common Names
Black VelvetAlocasia Black VelvetBlack Velvet AlocasiaLittle Queen AlocasiaQueen Alocasia
Context
nativeRegion
Borneo (Sabah, Sarawak, Kalimantan), Southeast Asia
usdaZones
10–12 outdoors; commonly grown indoors elsewhere
companionPlants
Goeppertia/Calathea spp., Fittonia albivenis, Peperomia caperata, Adiantum (Maidenhair fern), Begonia rex, Philodendron hederaceum ‘Micans’
culturalUses
Ornamental houseplant and display specimen for its velvety foliage; used in larger terrariums/vivariums; popular among aroid collectors.
Care
Care Requirements
LightBright, indirect light; avoid harsh midday sun. Tolerates medium light with slower growth.
WateringKeep evenly moist but never soggy. Water when the top 1–2 in (2–5 cm) of mix is dry; reduce in winter. Use room‑temperature water.
SoilAiry, fast‑draining aroid mix (coco coir/peat + fine bark + perlite/pumice). Pot with excellent drainage.
FertilizerBalanced liquid fertilizer at 1/4 strength every 4–6 weeks in spring–summer; hold in fall–winter.
HumidityPrefers 60–80%. Minimum ~50%. Use a humidifier or pebble tray and ensure gentle airflow.
TemperatureIdeal 65–80°F (18–27°C). Keep above 60°F (16°C) and protect from cold drafts.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitCompact, clumping, rhizomatous (corm-forming) herbaceous perennial.
Mature Size6–12 in (15–30 cm) tall and wide; leaves 4–8 in (10–20 cm).
Growth RateSlow to moderate.
BloomingOccasional, inconspicuous spathe/spadix mainly in spring–summer; rare indoors.
DormancyMay enter semi-dormancy in cool/low light; can drop leaves and resprout from corms. Reduce watering during dormancy.
Propagation
MethodsDivision of clumps, Separating corm/offset pups, Corm propagation in moist sphagnum, Seed (rare)
DifficultyModerate
Best SeasonSpring to early summer
Maintenance & Notes
PruningMinimal. Remove yellowing or damaged leaves at the base; gently dust leaves. Avoid leaf‑shine on velvety foliage.
RepottingEvery 12–24 months in spring or when rootbound. Upsize slightly; keep corm just at/near the surface; ensure sharp drainage.
Pests & DiseasesSpider mites, thrips, and mealybugs; root rot from overwatering; fungal leaf spot. Brown edges from low humidity or salts.
ToxicityToxic if ingested (insoluble calcium oxalates). Can cause mouth irritation and GI upset in pets and humans; sap may irritate skin.
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