Alocasia reginula 'Ninja' – Rare Dark Jewel Alocasia
Alocasia reginula 'Ninja', sometimes marketed as 'Black Ninja', is a rare and stunning variety of Alocasia reginula A.Hay. Emerging in the houseplant market around 2020, 'Ninja' stands out with its almost black, velvety foliage and compact growth habit. While closely related to the popular 'Black Velvet', 'Ninja' offers a deeper leaf color and subtle differences in vein structure, making it a must-have for Alocasia collectors.
What Makes Alocasia reginula 'Ninja' Special?
- Velvety Dark Leaves: Deep near-black leaves with a soft, suede-like texture.
- Distinct Veins: Prominent double marginal veins give the foliage a refined, sculptural look.
- Compact Growth: Stays small and manageable, ideal for desks, shelves, and terrariums.
How to Care for Alocasia reginula 'Ninja'
→ Light Requirements
- Bright, Filtered Light: Mimic natural semi-exposed environments. Morning sun is fine; harsh midday rays should be avoided.
- Grow Light Friendly: Performs well under quality full-spectrum grow lights.
→ Best Soil and Potting Setup
- Airy Mix: Use a blend of coconut coir, perlite, and orchid bark for ideal drainage and airflow.
- Pot Choice: Terracotta is excellent for moisture regulation; always use pots with drainage holes.
→ Watering Instructions
- Moderate Watering: Allow the top 30–50% of the soil to dry between waterings.
- Drainage is Key: Never allow the roots to sit in waterlogged soil.
→ Humidity and Temperature
- Humidity Range: Thrives at 60–70%. Accepts 50% humidity with slightly slower growth.
- Temperature Needs: Maintain between 18–27°C. Avoid exposure below 15°C.
→ Fertilizing
- Light Feeding: Apply diluted balanced fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during active growth periods.
→ Repotting Tips
- When to Repot: Only when roots become noticeably pot-bound. 'Ninja' prefers stable root environments.
→ Propagation
- Offset Division: Propagate by carefully separating offsets if present. Not all plants produce offsets readily.
→ Pruning and Plant Health
- Leaf Care: Remove yellow or damaged leaves promptly to maintain plant health.
- Pest Prevention: Inspect regularly for spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. Treat early with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Common Problems with Alocasia reginula 'Ninja' (and Solutions)
- Yellowing Leaves: Often due to overwatering. Adjust watering and check drainage.
- Leaf Curling: Caused by low humidity or inconsistent moisture levels.
- Brown Tips: Result from direct sun exposure or fertilizer buildup.
- Slow Growth: Usually linked to low light, low humidity, or cooler temperatures.
- Pests: Common pests include spider mites and mealybugs. Treat immediately to prevent damage.
Extra Tips for Growing Alocasia reginula 'Ninja'
- Ideal Placement: Choose a spot with stable humidity and bright, filtered light. Avoid drafts and dry air vents.
- Stress Recovery: Boost humidity and stabilize watering routines if the plant shows signs of stress.
Etymology of Alocasia reginula 'Ninja'
The genus name "Alocasia" was created to distinguish it from "Colocasia," reflecting subtle botanical differences. The species name "reginula" means "little queen" in Latin, referring to its regal look. The cultivar name 'Ninja' likely draws from the plant’s stealthy, dark appearance, similar to the silent agility of ninjas in popular culture.
Alocasia reginula 'Ninja'
Alocasia reginula 'Ninja' comes in following sizes:
Plug (Starter Plant) – ⌀ 2 cm and is approximately 8 cm tall
Baby Plant – is approximately 10 cm tall and comes in a ⌀ 6 cm pot
M – is approximately 25 cm tall and comes in a ⌀ 12 cm pot
