'Black Velvet' alocasia guide
Alocasia reginula, also called Alocasia reginula, little queen alocasia, Black Velvet
Published 2026-11-08
Quick care
- Light
- Bright indirect
- Water
- When the top 2 to 5 cm (1 to 2 in) of soil is dry
- Humidity
- High. Dry air invites spider mites and crisp edges.
- Temperature
- 18 to 27°C (65 to 80°F). Keep above 15°C (60°F).
- Soil
- Chunky, airy mix with orchid bark and perlite
- Feeding
- Half-strength fertilizer monthly in spring and summer
- Pets
- Toxic to cats and dogs. Chewing causes mouth pain, drooling, and swelling.
- Difficulty
- Fussy
- Mature size
- 30 to 45 cm (12 to 18 in) tall
- Propagation
- Divide the clump, or pot up the small corms in the roots
- Where to buy
- Plant shops
This page covers what makes 'Black Velvet' alocasia different. For light, water, soil, pests, and the rest, read the alocasia care guide.
What it is
‘Black Velvet’ is Alocasia reginula, a small alocasia with thick, round, velvety leaves so dark they look black. Silver-white veins stand out against the dark. It stays compact, under 45 cm (18 in) tall.
How to tell it apart
| Plant | Leaves | The tell |
|---|---|---|
| ‘Black Velvet’ | Small, round, near-black velvet | Small, rounded, almost black |
| ‘Frydek’ alocasia | Arrow-shaped, dark green velvet | Long arrow shape and green, not black |
| ‘Polly’ alocasia | Glossy, arrow-shaped | Shiny, not velvet |
Care differences
‘Black Velvet’ handles lower humidity and lower light than most alocasias. Its thick leaves store a little more water, so let the top half of the soil dry before watering.
Do not mist or wipe the velvet. Dust it with a soft dry brush.
Grow it from corms or offsets
It makes small offsets beside the main plant. Separate them with roots when you repot.
Pet safety
Like all alocasias, it is toxic to cats and dogs.
Buying it
‘Black Velvet’ is sold at plant shops and some garden centers. Look for thick, flat leaves and a compact plant.