Plant Description
Alocasia Black Velvet Albo: Iconic Velvet Cultivar in Albo Variegation
Looking for the Alocasia Black Velvet Albo? This is the chimeric albo-variegated form of one of the best known Alocasia in cultivation, Alocasia reginula 'Black Velvet'. Already valued for its almost-black, velvety leaves and crisp silver veining, the albo form adds cream and white sectoring to the classic.
True Chimeric Albo Variegation
Black Velvet Albo is genuinely chimeric. The variegation is generated at the meristem and cannot be reliably tissue-cultured true to type. White and cream sectors sweep across the matte, velvet-textured leaves and contrast against the silvery midrib veining. Expression varies leaf to leaf and reversion is always a possibility. This is part of the appeal for collectors and is best managed by leaving variegated growth points intact when pruning.
Care and Establishment
Black Velvet is a small, compact cultivar that prefers bright, indirect light, enough to encourage healthy growth without scorching the more delicate albo sectors. Provide humidity comfortably above 60%. A gentle balanced feed programme during active growth supports leaf production. Black Velvet appreciates warmth and consistent conditions, and abrupt changes can trigger dormancy.
All plants are grown in Fluval Stratum, our preferred early-stage medium for corms and baby Alocasia, held in our 3D printed Corm Keeper stand. Once fully rooted and at juvenile size we repot into our own pon mix, blended from components in our Soil Ninja range.
Key Features
- Rare albo variegated form of Alocasia reginula 'Black Velvet'
- Matte, velvet-textured near-black foliage with silver veining
- Chimeric cream and white sectoring
- Compact habit, ideal for cabinets and shelves
- Cannot be tissue-cultured true to type
- Juvenile specimen, UK-grown and acclimatised
- Bright indirect light, 60%+ humidity, chunky aroid mix
- Extremely limited availability
A cultivar for serious variegated Alocasia collectors. Get in touch with the team at The Alocasia Company for care guidance before purchase.
Plant Genus
Lighting Conditions
Alocasia thrive off good lighting. The use of grow lights can help with darker areas of your home.
Humidity & Water
The only rule! Don't over water, keep your substrate moist, not wet. Less is more in every watering. High humidity is essential; aim for 60% or higher. Use a humidifier, pebble tray, or regular misting
Semi Hydro Growing
Using LECA or pon you can grow your plants without soil. Read our blog for more information
Feed Your Plant
Every watering during the growing season (spring & summer) using a water-soluble nutrients
Pet Safety
Alocasia contain insoluble calcium oxalates and can be toxic if ingested by cats, dogs, or children
