Marcgravia sp. 'El Coca' - Rare Shingling Terrarium Vine
Elevate your vivarium with the deep, dramatic foliage of the Marcgravia sp. 'El Coca'. A highly sought-after, rare tropical shingler that adds instant, dark elegance to any bioactive setup.
- Striking Coloration: Features velvety leaves ranging from deep red to luxurious maroon, often turning almost black with age.
- Unique Shingling Habit: Naturally climbs vertical surfaces, adhering to wood or backgrounds to create a "tiled" or "scaled" tapestry effect.
- Terrarium Perfection: Ideal for humid, high-light vivariums and tropical cabinets; thrives in 70–90% humidity.
- Rare Collector's Item: A scarce Ecuadorian native, perfect for collectors looking for something more distinct than standard green shinglers.
Description
Transform your terrarium into a slice of the Ecuadorian Amazon with Marcgravia sp. 'El Coca'. Known for its striking appearance and dramatic, dark-toned foliage, this rare plant is a must-have for the serious bioactive builder.
As a true "shingler," this vine thrives when pressed flat against a vertical, damp surface like cork bark or tree fern panels, where its rounded, velvety leaves will grow and lay perfectly flat, climbing towards the light. This species is highly coveted for its deep maroon to nearly black leaf color, creating a stark, moody contrast to bright green tropical plants.
As a true "shingler," this vine thrives when pressed flat against a vertical, damp surface like cork bark or tree fern panels, where its rounded, velvety leaves will grow and lay perfectly flat, climbing towards the light. This species is highly coveted for its deep maroon to nearly black leaf color, creating a stark, moody contrast to bright green tropical plants.
Care Instructions
- Light: Bright, indirect light is ideal. Avoid direct sun, which can burn the leaves.
- Humidity: High (70–90%) is required. Best kept in an enclosed terrarium, vivarium, or paludarium.
- Watering: Keep the substrate or moss attached to the vertical surface consistently moist, but avoid having water sit on the leaves for long periods to prevent rot.
- Soil/Substrate: Thrives on damp Sphagnum moss during rooting; eventually prefers a well-draining, airy, bark-based mix.