Tacca chantrieri

Germination

Sow indoors at any time. Prior to sowing soak seed in warm water for 24 hours. Try to keep the water warm, a thermos flask might help. Drain. Surface sow onto moist, well-drained seed compost. Just cover seed with a sprinkling of soil. Place in a propagator or seal in a plastic bag to maintain humidity. Ideal temp. 25-27°C. Prone to damping off. Germination takes 1-9 months and can be erratic. Do not discard the seed tray prematurely. Once germinated admit air. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle to 8cm pots and grow on under glass. Pot on as required to a 20cm pot eventually.

Growing

This is a tropical plant which prefers heat and moisture, a bathroom or greenhouse is an ideal location. Can be tried outside, ideally container planted so that it can be brought under glass as the weather cools. Ideal temp. during growth, 15-18°C. Ideal temp. during winter dormancy 12°C. Water well when in growth, reduce watering during winter. Excellent drainage is required.

Cultivation

Requires little attention. Propagate by division of rhizomes in spring. This can be performed at repotting time.