Alocasia Black Velvet

Alocasia Black Velvet Soil

This Alocasia will enjoy being planted in a slightly acidic, well-draining, aerated growing medium. You may create a potting mix for your Alocasia Black Velvet by combining commercial potting soil with orchid bark and perlite at a 1:2 ratio. Coco coir or peat moss may be substituted for potting mix. Alternatively, you may use a commercial aroid mix and incorporate extra perlite, sand, or bark. Your Alocasia will also appreciate small additions of organic matter such as worm castings or compost to increase richness.

Alocasia Black Velvet Fertilizer

Although Alocasia Black Velvet may be considered a light feeder, it will still benefit from a moderate fertilization schedule during the growing season in spring and summer. Select a balanced liquid fertilizer indicated for houseplants and dilute to ½ to ¼ strength specified on the label. Feed your Alocasia monthly and stop applications during the fall. Do not feed during winter and do not overfertilize, as this may cause damage to your plant, such as chemical burn. 

Alocasia Black Velvet Watering

Aptly watering your Alocasia may be the most challenging part of caring for it. While this plant does enjoy consistently moist soil, it is very prone to suffering from issues related to overwatering, such as root rot. You should never allow your Alocasia to sit in oversaturated soil or excess water within its drainage tray. Therefore, only water your Alocasia when its substrate it completely dry to the touch. 

Alocasia Black Velvet Light Requirements

The Black Velvet Alocasia will appreciate being grown in medium to indirect sunlight. However, as with many other tropical plants, too much direct sunlight will burn its leaves. However, if it does not receive enough sunlight, it will grow spindly or will halt growing altogether.

Alocasia Black Velvet Temperature & Humidity

As a tropical plant, Alocasia Black Velvet loves warm, humid temperatures. This plant will grow best if kept between 60 to 80F and will typically grow faster if kept in warmer environments. This plant should never be allowed to reach temperatures below 55F, as this may cause permanent damage. Additionally, this plant does not like being exposed to sudden changes in temperature and should not be kept near heaters, AC units, cold windows, or drafts. Finally, high humidity is of utmost importance if you are to keep your Alocasia happy. While they may not die from humidity levels in the 40% range, they will not optimally grow unless kept above 60-75% humidity. You may boost humidity levels in your home by installing a humidifier, pebble tray, or grouping tropical plants together to create a microclimate. 

Repotting Alocasia Black Velvet

Alocasia Reginula does well when grown in a snug container and remaining slightly rootbound. Excess container space can easily lead to overwatering issues. You should repot your Alocasia every 1-2 years in the spring. This is an excellent time to remove any offsets for propagation. You should only select a container that is 1-2 inches larger than the previous container. 

Alocasia Black Velvet Maintenance & Pruning

Pruning and maintaining Alocasia Reginula is straightforward. Periodically remove any diseased, discolored, or dead leaves using sharp, clean shears. 

Alocasia Black Velvet Propagation

Alocasia Reginula may be easily propagated by planting its offsets that arise from the rhizome of the man. Simply remove the offset plants gently and plant them into their own container with fresh soil. Keep moist and keep in indirect light until well established. It is best to plant offsets in spring or early summer. 

Alocasia Black Velvet Toxicity

Alocasia Black Velvet is toxic to humans, cats, and dogs and should never be ingested in any way. Wash hands after handling this plant.

Toxicity to Humans

Alocasia Reginula is considered toxic to humans and should never be consumed, as it contains calcium oxalate crystals which can irritate the mouth and digestive system. 

Toxicity to Cats & Dogs

The Black Velvet Alocasia is considered toxic to pets and should be kept away from them. If you suspect that your cat or dog has consumed any portion of this plant, contact your veterinarian or animal poison control immediately. 

Alocasia Black Velvet Problems

Alocasia Black Velvet Leaves Turning Yellow

Foliage of your Alocasia may turn yellow due to watering issues – either too much water or too little water. Leave the soil moist but don’t saturate the soil from overwatering.

Alocasia Black Velvet Leaves Turning Brown

The number one cause of foliage browning when it comes to the Black Velvet Alocasia is lack of humidity or underwatering. Alternatively, it may be caused by chemical burn from too much fertilizer. 

Alocasia Black Velvet Diseases

While this plant is largely disease-resistant since it is a tropical plant that favors high humidity, issues with plant disease related to too much moisture can occur. Leaf spot, root rot, and other issues may arise with Alocasia Reginula. Ensure that your plant has good air circulation surrounding it and that it is not overwatered. 

Alocasia Black Velvet Pests

While this Alocasia is largely pest-resistant, it is not immune to an infestation. Check your plant periodically for spider mites, mealybugs, and other common houseplant pests. 

FAQ

Should I Mist My Alocasia Black Velvet?

Alocasia Black Velvet needs high humidity for it to grow. Misting Alocasia Reginula is a good idea to provide it the 75% humidity levels it needs.

Why Is My Alocasia Black Velvet Dying?

The most common reason the Alocasia Black Velvet dies is from overwatering which causes root rot beneath the soil. Take the plant out of the pot and check for brown mushy stems. If seen, remove the stems with clean scissors and plant in a new pot with fresh soil.

OTHER Alocasia RESOURCES:

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• Alocasia Hilo Beauty Plant Guide
• Alocasia Frydek Plant Guide