I got this plant in September 2023. Repotted it once already as it had quickly outgrown the pot I had it in as far as roots go. However. Leaves are a different story altogether. It tries to put out new leaves, but they start drying up before they even emerge all the way. What does finally emerge is a dried-out stump of a leaf. The leaves that it had when it arrived are still there. They had brown tips when it arrived and they still have those brown tips. The plant is of course indoors, west-facing window on a desk. Watered when dry, at least once a week. Temperature in low to mid-70s. Humidity 50-60%. Yes, I have a gravel tray under the pot to raise humidity around it. Tried different locations, different watering schedules. Still trying to grow even a single leaf that doesn't fall off to a dry stump immediately. Information around is lacking at best. I have all sorts of other plants. Never had a problem like that with any of them before. What's the trick, I wonder.
This plant does very well indoors; in an east-facing window with 1-2 hours morning sun, mine flowered within just 8 months! Do make sure to give it ample humidity, like an orchid (I put mine in one of those miniature plastic-covered greenhouses). Although the flower is indeed black, it demonstrates a fascinating range of hues from green to purple to black over 1-2 weeks before reaching "full" bloom. The flower unfolds slowly and dramatically over this time.
I am so excited to finally receive this plant! Looking forward to seeing the flower. The plant arrived in excellent condition.
When I ordered this flower, I was expecting a far smaller plant than I received. However, it had plenty of lovely leaves and even one new one getting ready unfurl. I love the look of this flower and hope it will eventually bloom. I am blown away by how lovely this young baby is. Thank you!