The black bat flower (Tacca  spp.) is a species of tropical flowering plant in the yam family Dioscoreaceae. This is one of the few plants that has black flowers. These flowers are somewhat bat-shaped, are up to 12 inches across, and some varieties have long often white ‘whiskers’ that can grow up to 28 inches long. A popular variety, Tacca chantrierei is native to tropical regions of Southeast Asia including Thailand, Malaysia, and southern China: particularly Yunnan Province.They are understory plants and prefer shade (at least 60%). They grow  best in well-drained soil with good air circulation, but they prefer high humidity, and need a lot of water. They are hardy to USDA zones 10A- 11, above 4.5 °C (40 °F).

These are excellent dramatic plants for container gardening and provide reason for many conversations when placed in pots near the entry to a home. in the right cultural conditions. They can also be used in tropical landscapes and usually as a featured specimen.

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