Alocasia reginula 'Black Velvet' – Compact Jewel Alocasia with Velvety Elegance
Alocasia reginula 'Black Velvet' is a rare Bornean jewel Alocasia celebrated for its deep matte foliage and silver-white veins that shimmer against near-black velvet leaves. Compact, sculptural, and surprisingly easy to care for, this Black Velvet Alocasia adds a dramatic accent to terrariums, plant shelves, or minimalist interiors. Learn more about related species in our Alocasia Collection.
● Origin and Natural Background
- Habitat: Endemic to Sabah, Malaysian Borneo, thriving on ultramafic slopes under bright, filtered rainforest light.
- Discovery & Cultivation: Propagated commercially in the early 1990s from Lyon Arboretum accessions; formally described by A. Hay, P.C. Boyce & K.M. Wong (1997).
- Name Meaning: The Latin “reginula” means “little queen,” perfectly matching its regal leaf texture and compact growth.
● Care Essentials for Alocasia 'Black Velvet'
- Light: Bright, indirect light or soft morning sun. For placement tips, see our indoor light guide.
- Watering: Allow the top 3–4 cm of substrate to dry slightly before watering. Use filtered or rainwater. Prevent soggy roots — detailed in our root-rot prevention guide.
- Humidity: Prefers 60–75 %; terrariums or grouped plants help maintain stability.
- Temperature: 18–27 °C year-round; protect from cold drafts below 15 °C.
- Substrate: Loose aroid mix of perlite, bark & coco coir; find ratio ideas in our aroid substrate guide.
- Feeding: Light, diluted balanced fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during growth.
- Propagation: Divide offsets gently during repotting; each piece must include roots and a node.
- Semi-Hydro: Adapts well to mineral or semi-hydro substrates when moisture remains consistent.
- Pruning: Remove yellow or damaged leaves with sterile shears to encourage new growth.
● Troubleshooting and Health Tips
- Yellow Leaves: Usually overwatering — extend the drying interval.
- Brown Edges: Low humidity — raise moisture or move away from heat sources.
- Drooping Foliage: Caused by water stress or sudden temperature change — stabilize environment.
- Pests: Occasionally attracts spider mites or mealybugs; treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
● Styling Inspiration and Collector Appeal
Alocasia 'Black Velvet' offers striking contrast to lighter green foliage and pairs beautifully with silver-toned pots or minimalist décor. Its manageable size and textured leaves make it a favourite among collectors looking for a rare, small indoor aroid that still commands attention.
● FAQs – Alocasia reginula 'Black Velvet'
- Is it pet-safe? No — like most aroids, it’s toxic if ingested.
- Can it thrive under grow lights? Yes, full-spectrum LEDs mimic natural daylight effectively.
- Is it suitable for terrariums? Perfectly — its compact habit and high humidity needs make it ideal.
- How often should I fertilize? Every 4–6 weeks during active growth; use mild, balanced feed.
● Bring Home Alocasia 'Black Velvet' – The Little Queen of Tropical Design
Alocasia reginula 'Black Velvet' combines luxury texture with compact ease — a statement piece for collectors and beginners alike. Add this jewel Alocasia to your space and enjoy rare, velvety foliage that transforms any room into a tropical showcase. Order your Black Velvet Alocasia today and let this small but powerful plant reign in your collection.
Alocasia reginula 'Black velvet'
Alocasia reginula 'Black velvet' comes in following sizes:
Plug (Starter Plant) – ⌀ 2 cm, is approximately 10 cm tall
Baby Plant – is approximately 13 cm tall and comes in a ⌀ 6 cm pot
S – is approximately 20 cm tall and comes in a ⌀ 12 cm pot
M – is approximately 25 cm tall and comes in a ⌀ 13 cm pot
L – is approximately 30 cm tall and comes in a ⌀ 14 cm pot
