Bat Flower Tacca chantrieri
ABOUT
The Tacca chantrieri, commonly known as the Black Bat Flower, is a striking and unusual plant characterized by its unique and eye-catching blooms. The plant's flowers are the main attraction; they are remarkable in appearance, resembling the outstretched wings of a bat. The color of the flowers is a deep, inky black, which contrasts dramatically with the surrounding green foliage. These bat-like blooms consist of two major parts: the flower itself, which is shaped like a flattened whirl with multiple filaments at its center that can be perceived as the "whiskers" of the bat, and the large, dark bracts that spread horizontally beneath the flower. The bracts have a leathery texture and are several times larger than the central bloom. The leaves of the Black Bat Flower are large, lush, and elongated, with a glossy texture and deep green color. They form a backdrop that further highlights the dark beauty of the flowers. Each leaf emerges on its own stem from the base of the plant and can be quite broad, with prominent veining that adds texture to the overall appearance of the plant. When in full bloom, the plant presents an exotic and gothic display that can be captivating to behold. The striking visual impact of the flowers, contrasted with large, deep green leaves, makes it a popular and memorable specimen for plant enthusiasts.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Dioscoreaceae.
Synonyms
Bat Flower, Black Bat Flower, Bat Head Lily, Devil Flower, Black Tacca.
Common names
Tacca macrantha, Tacca paxiana, Tacca laevis, Tacca plantaginea, Tacca minor, Ataccia aspera, Ataccia cristata, Ataccia macrantha.
ToxicityTo humans
The Bat Flower (Tacca chantrieri) is not widely recognized for being toxic to humans. However, as with many plants, it's possible that some individuals may experience mild discomfort or an allergic reaction if they ingest parts of the plant or handle it without protection, especially if they have sensitive skin or allergies. There is not enough scientific evidence to suggest severe poisoning or life-threatening symptoms from the ingestion of the Bat Flower. Despite this, it is generally not recommended to consume any part of ornamental plants due to the potential for unknown toxins or irritants.
To pets
The Bat Flower (Tacca chantrieri) is also not commonly known to be toxic to pets. However, as with any non-food plant, the ingestion of plant parts may cause gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea in pets. Due to the lack of specific information about the plant's toxicity to animals, it is prudent to prevent pets from ingesting it. Monitoring your pet for any signs of illness after ingestion and consulting a veterinarian if any symptoms arise would be advisable.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Black
Height
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Spread
1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
10
Native area
Southeast Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Tacca chantrieri, also known as the Black Bat Flower, is known for its striking and unusual flowers, which can serve as a unique focal point in gardens and interior spaces.
- Conversation Starter: Due to its exotic appearance, the Black Bat Flower often becomes a conversation piece, drawing interest and curiosity from visitors.
- Cultural Significance: In some cultures, the Black Bat Flower is associated with various myths and rituals, adding a layer of cultural depth and interest to its presence.
- Habitat Diversity: As a tropical plant, Tacca chantrieri contributes to biodiversity in garden ecosystems that mimic its natural rainforest habitat.
- Shade Lover: The plant thrives in shaded areas, making it a suitable option for underplanting or adding greenery to less sunny parts of gardens.
- Humidity Loving: The Black Bat Flower prefers high humidity, which can be beneficial for creating microclimates within a garden or home that support other humidity-loving plants.
- Pollinator Support: While not a major source of nectar, its flowers can attract certain species of flies and other pollinators that are drawn to its unique appearance.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The Black Bat Flower can be used as an ornamental plant in gardens for its striking and unusual appearance, acting as a conversation starter and focal point.
- In botanical and educational displays, it serves as an example of unique floral structures and can be used to teach about plant diversity.
- This plant is often featured in photographic art and botanical illustrations due to its dramatic aesthetic and rarity.
- Tacca chantrieri might be used in themed garden settings, such as gothic or dark fantasy gardens, to create a specific atmosphere or aesthetic.
- Some cultures use the Black Bat Flower in storytelling or myths as a symbol of darkness or mystery due to its bat-like flowers.
- Specialist plant breeders may utilize the Black Bat Flower in hybridization to develop new varieties with unique characteristics.
- The dried flowers could potentially be used in non-traditional floral arrangements or as part of art pieces for their intriguing shape and texture.
- It can serve as a natural pest deterrent in gardens because some insects avoid its distinct appearance and odor.
- In eco-friendly fashion or textile design, elements of the Black Bat Flower might inspire patterns or motifs for fabrics and clothing.
- As an educational tool, it can help to raise awareness about the conservation of rare and exotic plant species and their habitats.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Bat Flower is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Bat Flower is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Mystery and Uniqueness: Tacca chantrieri, commonly known as the Bat Flower, possesses a unique and otherworldly appearance that is symbolic of mystery and the unusual.
- Darkness and the Supernatural: With its dark, bat-like flowers and whisker-like filaments, the Bat Flower represents elements that are associated with darkness, the supernatural, and the allure of the unseen.
- Overcoming Fear: The Bat Flower's association with bats, creatures that often symbolize fear, suggests a theme of facing and overcoming fears or the unknown.
- Wealth and Opulence: In certain cultures, the Bat Flower’s rarity and exotic look may carry connotations of wealth and opulence, as it is a unique and striking addition to collections.
WaterThe Bat Flower (Tacca chantrieri) prefers consistently moist soil, so it should be watered regularly, about once or twice a week, depending on the environment's humidity and temperature. The amount of water needed can vary, but as a guideline, provide enough water to moisten the soil thoroughly without waterlogging; roughly 16-24 ounces should suffice each time. During the plant's active growing season in spring and summer, ensure that the soil remains damp, but reduce watering frequency in the fall and winter months to prevent root rot.
LightBat Flower plants thrive in bright, indirect light but can tolerate partial shade. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so a spot with filtered sunlight, such as under a canopy or near a window with a sheer curtain, would be ideal. A north-facing window or an east-facing window receiving morning light are good locations for this plant.
TemperatureThe Bat Flower does well in warm environments and should be kept in a temperature range of 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. It's important to protect the plant from temperatures below 50 degrees, as this can cause damage to the plant. Ideally, maintain consistent warmth without significant fluctuations for optimal growth.
PruningPruning the Bat Flower is beneficial for removing dead or yellowing leaves and spent flowers to promote healthy growth and appearance. Prune sparingly, primarily to maintain shape and remove any unhealthy parts of the plant. The best time for pruning is after the blooming period has ended or at the start of the growing season. Generally, pruning can be done once a year or as needed.
CleaningAs needed
SoilBat flower thrives in a well-draining, peat-based potting mix with perlite or orchid bark to increase aeration. A mix of two parts peat to one part perlite is ideal. The best soil pH for this plant ranges between 5.5 and 6.5.
RepottingBat flower should be repotted every 2 to 3 years or when it becomes root-bound. Use the same soil mixture as recommended for best growth.
Humidity & MistingThe bat flower prefers high humidity conditions, ideally between 50% and 70%. Consistent humidity at this level promotes healthy growth and flowering.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright indirect light, high humidity, and moist, well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Plant in shady area; needs high humidity and well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
10-11 USDA
Life cycleTacca chantrieri, commonly known as the Black Bat Flower, begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in warm, moist soil often in the understorey of tropical rainforests. Upon germination, the seedling develops into a vegetative plant with an underground rhizome that serves as an energy reservoir and a source of new shoots. The plant produces large, deep green leaves that can reach up to 40 centimeters in length. Once the plant reaches maturity, which can take several years, it produces its distinctive flowers: large inflorescences with black or dark purple flower parts and long, whisker-like bracts. After pollination, which is often facilitated by flies attracted to the flower's appearance and sometimes mild scent, the plant sets fruit that contains seeds, thereby completing its reproductive cycle. The lifecycle continues as these seeds are dispersed by various means, including water or animals, finding new locations to germinate and grow.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating the Tacca chantrieri, commonly known as the Bat Flower, is through division of the rhizomes. This is typically done in the spring when the plant is emerging from dormancy. To propagate by division, carefully unearth the plant and gently separate the rhizome into smaller segments, ensuring each division has at least one growth point or shoot. These segments can then be replanted in a well-draining potting mix, ideally one part potting soil to one part perlite or sand to ensure good drainage. The divisions should be planted at the same depth they were growing at previously and watered thoroughly. It is important to maintain high humidity and warmth to encourage the new divisions to establish and grow, which may involve covering them with a plastic bag or placing them in a greenhouse. With the correct care, new Bat Flower plants will soon develop and can eventually produce the striking black flowers for which this species is known.