Black Widow x Michelle 'Buz'

Black Widow × Michelle ‘Buz’ is a hybrid originally created by Dr. Jeff Block. This plant in the AnesthesiaPlanter collection is an exact vegetative clone of the specimen owned and used for breeding by Brendan. As a clonal division of that plant rather than a seed-grown sibling from the same cross, it preserves the same individual genotype and represents the exact breeding plant used in Brendan’s program.

Black Widow × Michelle ‘Buz’ is distinguished by exceptionally dark, velvety foliage contrasted by prominent silver-white venation. Mature leaves develop a broad cordate form with substantial shoulders, a defined sinus, and a long, elegant taper toward the apex. The primary veins remain remarkably bright against the dark blade, creating a dramatic skeletal pattern across the leaf. Secondary venation adds additional structure without overwhelming the clean overall form. As the foliage hardens, the increasingly dark blade further intensifies this contrast. Beyond its appearance, this clone has particular significance within the collection because it is genetically identical to the established specimen used by Brendan Buzzer as a breeding parent.

This is one of those plants where darkness alone doesn't explain why I like it. The contrast is what makes it exceptional. The blade can become extremely dark while the venation remains bright and sharply defined, giving the leaf an almost illustrated appearance. I also really appreciate the balance of the leaf. It has presence without looking awkward or exaggerated—the shoulders are broad, the proportions are clean, and the elongated tip gives the mature foliage an elegant finish. Its provenance makes it even more interesting to me. Having an exact clone of a plant already being used successfully as a breeding parent means I'm not simply evaluating what this cross might produce; I'm working with the same genotype. That makes this plant especially valuable to me both as a collection specimen and as a future breeding parent.