Bat Plant (Tacca chantrierei) : Green Isle

Greenhouse Perennial

• Germination : Challenging
• Aftercare : Particular Care Required
• Ideal for : Containers
• Height : 36 inches

Description

An unusual and rarely offered selection that has intriguing dusky green blooms with bat-like, long green tentacles.

Flowers in 2-3 years from seed.

Sowing Instructions

Sow seed on the surface of any moist seed compost and cover with a fine sprinkling of compost or vermiculite. Place in a propagator or warm place, and keep at a temperature of around 25C (77F). After sowing, do not exclude light as this helps germination. Keep the surface of the compost moist but not waterlogged; germination can take 1-9 months. When large enough to handle, transplant seedlings into 7.5cm (3in) pots of good, peat-based compost mixed with some grit.

Growing Instructions

Pot on as required into 13cm (5in) and finally 20cm (8in) pots, always using a peat-based compost with added grit. From late spring to late summer, water and mist spray plants regularly. Shade from direct sun, and ensure a consistent temperature of around 25C (77F).

Aftercare

Reduce watering during the winter months, and ensure a minimum winter temperature of 15-18C (60-64F).