A frost-tender, tuberous evergreen perennial to 1.5m tall, producing striking, heart-shaped glossy dark green to black leaves on upright stems and contrasting greenish-white veins. A stunning foliage plant, perfect as a houseplant or can be grown outside in containers in a frost-free, sheltered location
1-1.5 metres
0.5-1 metres
| Season | Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | ||||
| Summer | ||||
| Autumn | ||||
| Winter |
Plant tubers in a large pot of humus-rich compost in warm conditions in early spring. In early summer the pot can be positioned in a sunny or lightly shaded spot outdoors, with shelter from strong winds. Water freely when the plant comes into growth and apply a high nitrogen feed weekly. Either move the pot into a greenhouse or conservatory over winter, or lift the tuber and store it dry. See houseplant cultivation for further advice
Propagate by division or by stem cuttings
No pruning required
May be susceptible to glasshouse red spider mite, aphids and glasshouse whitefly
Generally disease-free