Growing Requirements

Demands excellent drainage as it is prone to root fungal problems. Gardeners may have more success by growing it as a potted specimen.

Characteristics

Olive green to black. The new growth is green. The colour darkens as the leaves mature. Some reports claim that this cultivar does not have the intense black colouring in warmer i.e. tropical areas. The margins of the medium size leaves are moderately to broadly undulated. The tips may turn down. There appears to be at least two types. The plant pictured has broader leaf bases and more undulation than the other type which has also been sold in Australia.

History

Imported into Australia by Michael Ferrero who discovered the plant growing in the highlands of Papua New Guinea. He believes it may be a species. Has been sold as 'Midnight', 'Purple Geni' and 'Caruba Black'. Originating from the Highlands of Papua New Guinea it appears to be quite tolerant of cooler climates.