Antoro velvet (Alocasia 'chienlii')

Product description

This is the only Alocasia species with velvet leaves. Adult leaves can become very dark coloured and are sometimes almost black. The hairiness, dark colour and sheen in the leaves make this species a special appearance. The leaves can grow to about 30 cm, are arrow-shaped and have dark red to purple petioles. It can grow up to 50 cm tall and can flower with a white inflorescence. 

It is a rare species from Nanga Mahap in southern Borneo. There, it is mainly found on rocky slopes in the rainforest. The species has not yet been officially described, but it is probably going to be named Alocasia chienlii. That would be a reference to the photographer and botanist Ch'ien Lee who discovered several Nepenthes species in Indonesia. Currently, the name 'Antoro velvet' is widely used, with Antoro being an Indonesian plant collector who first brought this species into cultivation in 2017. 

Provide a highly permeable soil with organic matter and water the plant regularly when humidity is relatively low. A light location without direct sunlight is best. 

Sowing description: The already germinated seed can be transferred directly into a well-drained soil mixture with organic matter. A temperature of 25-30 degC is optimal for initial development.