Does anyone know what this is? The leaves look almost like a mini banana plant. I saw it in Seattle's Volunteer park Conservatory and don't know what it is? I have never seen a flower like this! All the long hairy things are part of the flower - which was way more impressive live!

Hi Greg check this out http://search.aol.com/aol/imag...

I have always wanted one but not hardy here in the PNW.

Wow, Julia you're so good! Maybe we can visit the conservatory soon (like Friday afternoon?) Its small, and you could see this flower in person

Greg: I agree, that's a lovely Black Bat Flower (Tacca chantrieri)

There's a white flowering Bat Flower too, Tacca integrifolia that is quite stunning as well: http://www.google.com/search?q...

Lin, that is beautiful too. Didn't know bout that one.

Greg, Yes love to check that out on Friday after the visit.

It looks like: Bat Flower (Tacca chantrieri)

Thanks Deebie! And Lin I love the link!! All I can say is Wow! They are such unusual and cool flowers! I think I like the white ones better since they have those back petals that look almost like hosta leaves!!

@springcolor, DataBase says that it is suitable for growing as a houseplant… I'm tempted to give it a try! Even in Florida, I'm to far north to grow it in the garden, but oolala…such a temptation!!!

Yes, it is a looker but No more house plants for me. I have a greenhouse full of coleus, geraniums and seedlings. I never have down time anymore. Water Water!!! That is my making and need to either stop or buck up!!

I will admire this one in photos and get a look at it in the conservatory.

The Bat Flower looks just like a Spath (Peace Lily)--same exact leaves....then this crazy thing opens up.

My Home Depot has two of them sitting in the GH--waiting for someone to buy them.
We got them in last year too. They did sell--I guess it was a novelty.

I find nothing pretty about the blooms . UGH! Gita