Black leaf plants: A new trend has emerged rapidly in gardening during the last few years. While earlier people liked only lush green plants, now rare ornamental plants with black, dark purple and chocolate colored leaves are also attracting people’s attention. The unique color of these plants gives a different identity to any house, balcony or garden. This is why today these plants are becoming increasingly popular among gardening lovers and interior designers.
Why are plants with black leaves special?
Generally the color of plants is green, but in some special species a natural pigment called anthocyanin is found in large quantities. For this reason their leaves appear dark purple, chocolate or almost black in color. The great thing about these plants is that they create a great visual balance among the general greenery. This is why their demand is continuously increasing in modern gardens and ornamental plant collections.
Which plants are most popular?
Nowadays many black leaf plants are available in the market. Species such as Black Prince Echeveria, Black Magic Colocasia, Black Mondo Grass, Purple Shamrock and Black Rose Succulent are particularly popular. Some plants can be easily grown in small pots, while some are considered suitable for larger gardens and landscaping. Due to their dark color even ordinary plants look more attractive with them.
Why is the demand for home and garden decoration increasing?
Contrast is considered to have special importance in modern interior design. Plants with black leaves look extremely attractive with white, yellow, pink or green plants. These can be installed near the main entrance, balcony, terrace garden or living area. Many people make these plants a major part of home decoration by planting them in designer pots. Hotels, cafes and resorts are also increasing their use now.
What kind of soil and environment is better?
Most black leaved plants prefer soil that is not waterlogged. Organic fertilizers and well drained soil help in their growth. Many of these plants grow well in light sunlight and partial shade. When sufficient light is available, the dark color of their leaves becomes more visible.
What is the right way of care?
The care of these plants is considered relatively easy. It is better to water as per requirement rather than keeping the soil completely wet. Adding organic fertilizer from time to time and removing dry leaves keeps the plants healthy. Cleaning the leaves when dust accumulates on them is also considered beneficial.
Why is popularity increasing on social media?
The trend of rare plants has also increased rapidly due to social media. Plants with black leaves look very attractive in photographs due to their unique texture and color. This is the reason why plant lovers like to include them in their collection. Many online nurseries are also now offering special varieties.
Why are they becoming the new choice for gardening lovers?
Plants with black leaves are becoming increasingly popular due to their unique color, rarity and ornamental importance. These not only enhance the beauty of the house and garden but also create a distinct identity among the traditional greenery. If you want to give a new and attractive look to your garden or balcony, then such plants can prove to be a great option for you too.
FAQ
Are plants with black leaves really completely black?
No, it is very rare to find completely pure black color in plants in nature. These plants actually appear to be a deep purple, dark chocolate or maroon-black shade due to the abundance of ‘anthocyanin’ pigments.
Should Black leaf plants be kept in direct sunlight?
It depends on the variety of the plant. Succulents such as Colocasia prefer mild sunlight, but most indoor varieties should be protected from bright direct sunlight or the leaves may burn.
Why does the black color of these plants start fading?
The main reason for this is not getting enough bright light. If these plants are kept in a completely dark place, they start turning green again thanks to photosynthesis.
Are black leaf plants expensive?
Yes, these plants are a little rarer than the common money plant or snake plant, so their price in nurseries may be a little higher.
Which fertilizer works best? .
Organic vermicompost or earthworm manure containing nitrogen and potassium is considered best for these plants.