Plants

This beautiful and velvet leaf hemiepiphyte which seeds in trees begins its life as an epiphyte and the roots grow towards the ground, taking root in the soil. There are two types of verrucosum types, one with a red backside of the leave and the other variant with a green backside. The leaves are velvety with a hairy petiole.

Humidity and soil are both crucial for this plant. Soil must be fast draining and rich in organic matter mixed with bark, charcoal and perlite for good aeration. Bright indirect light will give big leaves, but yellowing leaves means too much light. Use half strength liquid fertilizer every 2-3 weeks or slow-release fertilizer during the growth period. Propagate by stem cutting or division of the rhizomes with 1-2 leaves. Allow the cut end to form a crust before placing in a shallow pot of light soil mix.

Prone to spider mite, mealybug and thrips.