Carlablackiae x 'Flat' Besseae

This cross was bred by Shaina, known as PropagateShay. I believe it was among the last hybrids she made before leaving the hobby. Many of the seedlings went to Ben at B.B. Tropicals, from whom I acquired this plant as a three-leaf seedling.

From the beginning, this plant was temperamental. Its roots repeatedly rotted despite my efforts to avoid overwatering. Plantyweeb, who owns what I understand to be the only clone of the “Flat” Besseae pollen parent, has described similar behavior in that plant. My seedling lost leaves, and eventually its growth point died. I managed to keep it alive long enough to establish new roots, then worked to encourage stronger growth. That work paid off. Its current leaf is a deep, nearly black green, with broad upper lobes that frame a moderate sinus. Bright ivory veins spread from the center in long, graceful lines, standing out sharply against the dark blade. The leaf narrows to an extended point, giving it a shape that is both bold and elegant. What a delicious plant it has become.

After everything it took to grow this plant on, I’m especially proud of it. I’d love to exaggerate its shape and veining further through breeding. So far, she has refused every pollen donor I’ve tried, but I haven’t given up hope.