Origin
Tacca involucrata Schumacher & Thonn., more commonly known as the bat flower, is a plant species native to tropical regions in Southeast Asia and Africa. It can be found in countries such as Thailand, Malaysia, and Nigeria.
Common Names
The common name "bat flower" refers to its unusual appearance, resembling a bat with its long whiskers. It is also known as the "devil flower", due to its dark color and unique shape. In its native regions, it is sometimes called "Keladi Tikus" in Malaysia and "Apon-to" in Nigeria.
Uses
The bat flower is primarily grown as an ornamental plant due to its striking and unusual appearance. It can be grown in greenhouses or outdoors in tropical climates, provided it receives adequate shade and moisture. In traditional medicine, the plant has been used to treat various ailments such as fever and cough, although its effectiveness has not been scientifically proven.
General Appearance
The bat flower is a perennial plant that can grow up to 3 feet tall. It has distinct dark purple-black flowers that can reach up to 12 inches in diameter. The flowers have long "whiskers" that can grow up to 28 inches in length. The leaves are large and dark green, with a ribbed texture. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade. It blooms from spring to fall and is propagated through seeds or division of the rhizomes.
In addition to its striking appearance, the bat flower is also known for its unique pollination strategy. The long whiskers and dark color of the flowers attract bat species, which are the primary pollinators of the plant. The plant produces a strong scent that mimics the smell of decaying flesh, further attracting bats.
Light Requirements
The Tacca involucrata Schumacher & Thonn. plant requires shading or partial sunlight for optimal growth. Direct sunlight can damage the leaves of the plant, so it is advisable to place it in a shaded area or under a tree canopy.
Temperature Requirements
The Tacca involucrata Schumacher & Thonn. plant thrives in tropical and subtropical climates, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. The plant can survive in lower temperatures but may not grow as well.
Soil Requirements
The Tacca involucrata Schumacher & Thonn. plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic, with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 6.5. The plant can also grow well in sandy soils.
Cultivation
Tacca involucrata Schumacher & Thonn., commonly known as white bat flower or devil flower, is a tropical plant that requires warm temperatures and high humidity to thrive. It can be grown indoors in a container or outdoors in a sheltered location with filtered sunlight. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter and a pH level between 5.5 and 7.5.
Watering Needs
The plant requires frequent watering, especially during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, as the plant does not tolerate standing water. The frequency of watering should be reduced during the dormant season to prevent root rot.
Fertilization
Tacca involucrata Schumacher & Thonn. is a heavy feeder and requires regular fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season and reduce the frequency during the dormant season.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Tacca involucrata Schumacher & Thonn. However, it is important to remove dead or diseased leaves to prevent the spread of disease. Cut back the plant to a few inches above the soil during the dormant season to promote new growth.
Tacca involucrata Schumacher & Thonn.
Tacca involucrata Schumacher & Thonn. is a tropical plant species that belongs to the family of Dioscoreaceae. This plant is also commonly known as the White Bat Flower or Purple Bat Plant due to its unique and distinct purple-black blooms. Tacca involucrata Schumacher & Thonn. is a perennial plant that can grow up to 60 cm to 90 cm in height. It is widely grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and greenhouses.
Propagation Methods
The propagation of Tacca involucrata Schumacher & Thonn. can be done through various methods which include division, seeds, and tissue culture.
Division: Tacca involucrata Schumacher & Thonn. can be propagated through division where the mature plant is divided into several smaller pieces, each with a portion of the root system. The plant should be lifted, and the soil should be washed away, and then the offsets should be separated carefully with a clean, sharp knife. Each division should have at least one healthy rhizome and a few attached leaves, which will ensure that the new plant will survive. The plant should be replanted in a pot filled with well-draining soil mixture and kept in a humid environment until the new growth appears.
Seeds: Propagation by seeds is another option, and it requires patience and care. Fresh seeds should be collected from the mature plant and sown into seed trays filled with a well-draining soil mix. The seeds should be placed on the surface of the soil and then covered with a thin layer of soil, and finally, the seed trays should be kept in a warm and humid environment until the new growth appears.
Tissue culture: This method of propagation is used when the plant is difficult to propagate by division or when seeds are not available. In tissue culture, a small amount of the plant tissue is taken, and it is placed in a nutrient-filled growing medium to produce new plants. This method is commonly used by nurseries to produce large quantities of identical plants in a short period.
Whichever method is used, the newly propagated plants should be kept in a warm and humid environment until the new growth appears. Once the plants have established in their new growing medium, they can be moved to their permanent positions in the garden or in containers.
Disease and Pest Management for Tacca involucrata Schumacher & Thonn.
Tacca involucrata Schumacher & Thonn., commonly known as White Bat Flower, is a tropical plant that is native to Africa. The plant is popular for its exotic appearance and unique flowers. However, like most plants, White Bat Flower is prone to various pests and diseases that can affect its growth and appearance. Below are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant:
Diseases
Crown Rot: This is a fatal disease caused by fungus that attacks the roots and the base of the stem. It is prevalent in plants grown in poorly drained soil. To manage this disease, consider improving soil drainage and avoiding overwatering.
Leaf Spot: This disease is characterized by the appearance of brown or black spots on the foliage. It is caused by a fungal infection. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves and apply fungicide to prevent spreading.
Bacterial Blight: This disease causes the leaves to turn brown and die, starting at the edges. The infection is caused by bacteria and not fungi. To manage this disease, keep the plant dry, and avoid overcrowding.
Pests
Spider Mites: These are tiny insects that suck sap from the leaves, causing them to wilt and turn yellow. They produce webs that cover the plant's surface. To manage spider mites, prune and dispose of infested leaves and apply insecticidal soap.
Whiteflies: These are small, white insects that are often found on the underside of leaves. They suck sap from the plant, causing the leaves to turn yellow and stunt growth. To manage whiteflies, introduce natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings or use insecticidal soap.
Mealybugs: These are small, soft-bodied insects that secrete a powdery white wax, making them appear like cotton balls. They often hide in leaf axils, under the leaves, and in the soil. To manage mealybugs, wash the plant with a strong jet of water or apply insecticidal soap.
Proper plant care, such as providing adequate sunlight, watering, and fertilization, is the best way to prevent diseases and pests. However, if your White Bat Flower has already been affected, apply appropriate measures to manage the problem.
