The Different Types of Bat Plant: A Comprehensive Overview

The bat plant, also known by its botanical name Tacca, is an exotic and unusual plant admired by gardeners and horticulturists for its distinctive bat-like flowers With strange whiskers and wing-shaped bracts, the flowers of the bat plant certainly resemble the face of a bat But did you know there are actually several different types of bat plant?

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the key varieties of this fascinating plant and what makes each one unique. From the popular black bat plant to the massive giant bat plant, read on to discover the diversity found within the Tacca genus.

The Most Common Bat Plant Varieties

Black Bat Plant (Tacca chantrieri)

The black bat plant is undoubtedly the most popular and frequently encountered variety Native to Southeast Asia, this species develops striking deep purple-black flowers with long whiskers The flowers can reach 6 inches across and the plant grows up to 3 feet tall. It thrives in warm, humid environments and does best in partially shaded sites. The luxurious dark blooms have made T. chantrieri a staple for tropical gardens and indoor displays.

White Bat Plant (Tacca integrifolia)

As its name suggests, the white bat plant bears elegant white blooms instead of the usual black. The flowers have a more delicate overall appearance with shorter whiskers. However, they still showcase the characteristic bat-shaped form. T. integrifolia enjoys the same warm, humid growing conditions preferred by its black cousin and reaches a modest height of around 2 feet. For gardens desiring a lighter, airier bat flower, this is an excellent choice.

Giant Bat Plant (Tacca integrifolia ‘Nivea’)

If you want to really upsize the standard white bat plant, check out the giant cultivar ‘Nivea’ It develops truly massive blooms up to 12 inches across and leaves reaching 16 inches wide. Yet it still keeps the recognizable look of Tacca flowers Expect it to achieve heights around 4 feet. The giant bat plant needs ample space both in the garden and indoors to accommodate its substantial proportions.

Bat Head Lily (Tacca cristata)

Moving away from the classic bat flower shape, T. cristata offers a fun alternative: flowers that look like a bat’s head and face! The blooms are generally pink or purple and showcase prominent “ears” along with long whiskers. Bat head lily is on the smaller side, growing to about 2 feet high. It’s an intriguing option for gardeners who want something a little different while still evoking the bat plant theme.

Dwarf Bat Plant (Tacca integrifolia ‘Papua New Guinea’)

For a petite take on the usual bat flower, this dwarf cultivar fits the bill. A compact selection of T. integrifolia, it bears flowers around 8 inches long but in a much smaller package. The plant’s dainty size makes it ideal for containers, borders, and smaller gardens. Yet it still captures the essence of what makes bat plants so prized.

Uncommon and Rare Bat Plant Species

Beyond the most popular types, there are also some uncommon bat plant varieties occasionally obtainable:

• Tacca leontopetaloides – Also called the Polynesian bat flower, its blooms feature dramatically elongated bracts.

• Tacca articulata – Native to Africa, this rare species has dark flowers and deeply divided leaves.

• Tacca chantrieri ‘Black Dragon’ – A black bat plant cultivar with extremely long, snaking whiskers.

• Tacca ‘Betty’s Choice’ – A hybrid bat plant with wispy white and maroon-tinged flowers.

Part of what makes growing bat plants so intriguing is the diversity found within the Tacca genus. By selecting different species and cultivars, you can enjoy a range of flower forms and colors while still celebrating the bat flower’s signature beauty.

Caring for Your Bat Plant

While their appearance may vary, all bat plants share similar care requirements. Here are some key tips to help your Tacca thrive:

• Site in partial or dappled shade

• Provide warm temperatures of 65-85°F

• Maintain high humidity around 50-70%

• Plant in rich, well-draining soil

• Water when the top inch of soil dries out

• Fertilize every 2-3 weeks during growth

• Prune old flower stems back to the base

• Divide congested plants in early spring

With the proper growing conditions, bat plants will flourish and delight you with their legendary flowers year after year. Be sure to make room in your garden for these captivating wonders of nature!