White Bat Flower Tacca integrifolia
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as white batflower is quite an extraordinary sight. This plant is characterized by its large, striking flowers that truly set it apart in the world of botanical wonders. The most notable features are its white bracts, which resemble the wings of a bat, hence the name "batflower." Surrounding the bracts, one would typically observe long, whisker-like filaments that may dangle and add to the dramatic appearance of the flower. The flowers themselves are nestled within the bracts and display a complex structure with multiple parts. They are generally white or off-white, contributing to the cohesiveness of the plant's color theme. This stark monochromatic scheme gives the plant an almost ethereal quality that's quite enchanting to onlookers. Contrasting with the dramatic flowers are the plant's leaves. These are typically lush and broad, with a rich green color that provides a beautiful backdrop to the star attraction. The velvety texture of the leaves further adds to the plant's sensory allure, making it an appealing specimen for both visual and tactile experiences. Overall, the white batflower is best known for its unique and somewhat mysterious appearance that can be a showstopper in any garden or collection of exotic plants. Its ornamental value lies in its inflorescence and the overall exotic vibe it brings to its surroundings.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Taccaceae
Synonyms
White Batflower, White Bat Plant, White Tacca
Common names
Ataccia aspera, Ataccia cristata, Ataccia integrifolia, Ataccia laevis, Tacca aspera, Tacca laevis, Tacca rafflesiana, Tacca sumatrana.
ToxicityTo humans
The Tacca integrifolia, commonly known as White Bat Flower, has not been well-documented for toxicity to humans. There is limited information available regarding its poisonous properties, if any. However, as with many plants, it is still wise to avoid ingesting any part of the White Bat Flower without proper knowledge of its edibility and effects on humans. Ingesting unknown plants can potentially lead to adverse reactions such as gastrointestinal distress or allergic reactions.
To pets
The Tacca integrifolia, known as the White Bat Flower, has no specific documented toxicity for pets in available literature. While it may not be widely recognized as a poisonous plant, the general rule of thumb is to prevent pets from ingesting plants that are not confirmed to be safe. If a pet were to ingest parts of the White Bat Flower, it could potentially experience similar symptoms as humans, such as gastrointestinal upset or an allergic reaction. If you suspect your pet has ingested any part of the plant and is showing symptoms of distress, consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Spread
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
10
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental value: Tacca integrifolia, commonly known as White Batflower, is admired for its unique and striking flowers, making it a prized specimen for ornamental gardens or as a focal point in landscape design.
- Cultural significance: In some cultures, the White Batflower is associated with various traditions and is used in ceremonial events, adding to its cultural value.
- Habitat for wildlife: The plant can provide shelter and food for certain insects, thus contributing to the biodiversity of the area where it grows.
- Shade provider: With its large leaves, Tacca integrifolia can create pockets of shade, benefiting understory plants that require indirect light.
- Soil improvement: The decaying leaves and organic matter provided by the White Batflower can help improve soil quality over time.
- Erosion control: The root system of Tacca integrifolia can help in stabilizing soil, thus reducing erosion in areas where it is grown.
Medical Properties- Antioxidant activity: Tacca integrifolia has been shown to possess antioxidant properties, which can help in scavenging free radicals.
- Antitumor activity: Some studies suggest that compounds in Tacca integrifolia may possess antitumor properties, however, this is based on preliminary research.
- Antimicrobial effect: There are indications that extracts from Tacca integrifolia may have antimicrobial effects against certain pathogens.
- Analgesic properties: There is evidence to suggest that Tacca integrifolia may have pain-relieving properties.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Components within Tacca integrifolia may help reduce inflammation, according to some research studies.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The white batflower's large, unusual flowers are sometimes used in floral arrangements as an exotic accent.
- With its dramatic appearance, this plant is often a centerpiece in tropical and subtropical botanical gardens for educational and ornamental purposes.
- In some cultures, the white batflower is a symbol of mystery and is associated with various superstitious beliefs due to its unique flower shape.
- The starchy tubers of the white batflower are occasionally used as a source of food for wildlife or as part of composting efforts.
- The fibers from the plant's stem can be considered for experimental use in making biodegradable materials or crafts.
- An infusion made from the parts of the white batflower, excluding the roots, can sometimes be used as a natural dye for fabrics.
- Due to its distinctive appearance, the white batflower could be a subject of artistic inspiration, featuring in paintings, photographs, and decor designs.
- The seeds of Tacca integrifolia may be used in seed art or as beads for making jewelry or decorative items.
- In small quantities, the leaves might be utilized as a natural insect repellent.
- Gardeners may use the white batflower plant as a natural shade provider for more delicate plants due to its large foliage.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe White Bat Flower is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe White Bat Flower is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Mystery: Tacca integrifolia, commonly known as White Bat Flower, is often associated with mystery due to its unusual and almost eerie appearance, which resembles a bat in flight.
- Uniqueness: The unique floral structure of the White Bat Flower sets it apart from other plants, symbolizing individuality and the beauty of being different.
- Darkness: Due to its dark-colored flowers and resemblance to a bat, which is a creature of the night, the White Bat Flower can represent darkness or the unknown.
- Rarity: As it is not a common plant and is relatively rare in cultivation, the White Bat Flower symbolizes rarity and exotic beauty.
WaterThe White Bat Flower should be watered once the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch. Typically, this equates to watering approximately every 7 to 10 days, but this frequency can vary depending on the humidity and temperature of your environment. When watering, use around 16 to 24 ounces of water for a medium-sized pot, ensuring you moisten the soil thoroughly but do not leave the plant sitting in water as this can lead to root rot. During the dormant winter months, reduce the watering frequency to prevent overwatering.
LightWhite Bat Flower thrives in bright, indirect light. The ideal spot is near an east-facing window where the plant receives several hours of gentle morning sun but is protected from the intense midday sun. If placed in too much direct sunlight, the leaves may scorch, while too little light can hinder flowering and cause the foliage to become leggy.
TemperatureThe White Bat Flower prefers a warm and consistent temperature range between 60 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive a minimum temperature of about 50 degrees Fahrenheit, but it should not be exposed to temperatures below this as it is sensitive to cold drafts and frost. The ideal conditions involve a stable, warm environment without significant temperature fluctuations.
PruningPruning the White Bat Flower is generally done to remove dead or yellowing leaves and spent blooms to encourage new growth and maintain a tidy appearance. It's best to prune after the flowering season has finished, using clean and sharp pruning shears. Light pruning can be done as necessary, but avoid heavy cutting back, as this could stress the plant.
CleaningAs needed
SoilWhite batflower prefers a well-draining, rich and loamy soil mix with good moisture retention. A mixture of peat, pine bark, and perlite or sand can work well. The ideal pH range for white batflower is slightly acidic to neutral, around 5.5 to 7.5.
RepottingWhite batflower should be repotted every two years or when the plant has outgrown its current pot. This allows space for the rhizome to grow and prevents the soil from becoming compacted.
Humidity & MistingWhite batflower thrives in high humidity conditions, ideally between 50% and 70%. It benefits from regular misting or being placed on a humidity tray to maintain the ideal humidity around the plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Grow white batflower in bright, indirect light, high humidity, and warm temps.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, shelter from wind, keep soil moist, high humidity.
Hardiness zone
10-11 USDA
Life cycleTacca integrifolia, commonly known as white batflower, begins its life cycle as a seed, often germinating in warm, moist soil in shaded areas of tropical forests. Upon germination, a root system develops and a shoot emerges, eventually producing broad, green foliage. As the plant matures, it develops a distinctive inflorescence with white flowers surrounded by large bracts, resembling a bat in flight, which may occur seasonally. After pollination, typically by flies attracted to the flower's unique appearance and possible odor, the plant produces fruit that contains seeds for the next generation. When conditions become less favorable, the plant may enter a period of dormancy, with the underground tuber surviving until conditions improve. Throughout its life cycle, the white batflower relies on a warm, humid environment to thrive and reproduce.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: Tacca integrifolia, commonly known as the White Bat Flower, is typically propagated through division. The most popular method to propagate it is by dividing the rhizomes. During late winter or early spring, when the plant is not actively growing, gardeners carefully dig up the plant and gently separate the rhizomes, taking care to include both roots and shoots in each division. Each section should have at least one growth point or "eye" to ensure it will develop into a new plant. Once divided, the rhizomes should be planted in a well-draining potting mix, placed at a depth of about 2 inches (about 5 centimeters), and watered thoroughly. Rhizome division allows the White Bat Flower to establish more quickly compared to other methods, such as seed propagation, which can be notoriously slow and difficult for this species.
