Black Velvet Arrowhead Plant

Black Velvet Arrowhead Plant (Syngonium rayii 'Black Velvet') is a compact foliage plant, about 30cm tall and wide, with slender, pointed, arrow-shaped leaves in velvety deep green, each marked by a white stripe down the centre. The pattern deepens as the plant matures. It suits a shaded patio, an interior planting scheme or a hanging pot where its stems can trail.

Why you'll love it

• A dramatic leaf pattern. Deep velvety green with a crisp white central stripe is a look few foliage plants match.
• Colour that develops. The leaf pattern strengthens as the plant matures, so it keeps getting better.
• Made for shade. A humid, shady spot with indirect light suits it, indoors or out.
• Trails when it wants to. Long stems cascade from a hanging pot as they grow.
• Easy to keep tidy. Removing old leaves is all the grooming it needs.

Where it works best

Indoors. Grow it in a pot of quality potting mix in a bright room away from direct sun, where the dark leaves and white stripe show up well.

Shaded patios and covered balconies. It suits a humid, protected spot with indirect light and no hard frost.

Tropical style underplanting. In frost free gardens, plant 30cm apart beneath taller tropical plants for a carpet of patterned leaves.

Hanging pots. The trailing stems look their best spilling over the edge of a hanging basket.

Growing Black Velvet Arrowhead Plant in Australia

Position and climate. Humid shade with indirect light. Direct sun scorches the leaves. Outdoors it is for tropical and subtropical gardens only, as it is frost tender. Elsewhere keep it indoors or on a covered patio.

Soil. Free-draining soil or a good quality potting mix.

Water and feed. Water regularly for the first 12 weeks, then only when the soil seems dry. Feed with liquid fertiliser at half strength every few weeks while it establishes, then every second month. It likes humidity, so indoors a regular spritz on the foliage keeps it happy.

Pruning. Remove old leaves for a quick tidy-up. Wash your hands afterwards and keep pets and small children away from the plant, because the leaves are toxic if eaten. Bin the trimmings rather than tipping them in bushland, as arrowhead vines root readily.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Black Velvet Arrowhead Plant as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly. Expect a small plant with a few leaves on arrival. The markings strengthen and the trailing stems lengthen as it matures. Pot it into quality potting mix or plant it out in a shaded spot soon after it arrives.

Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• Browse all indoor plants
• Indoor plants for low light
• Indoor plant tips for beginners

Common questions

Is it an indoor plant?

Yes. It does well indoors in bright, indirect light and also suits a shaded patio. Keep it away from direct sun and from cold draughts.

Is it safe for pets?

No. Syngoniums are toxic if eaten, so keep it out of reach of pets and small children, and wash your hands after handling it.

Why are the leaf edges going brown?

Usually dry air or too much sun. Move it to a spot with indirect light and mist the leaves regularly.