Alocasia ‘Regal Shields’

The Alocasia ‘Regal Shields’ is a magnificent and dramatic hybrid, prized for its impressive size and stunning foliage. A cross between Alocasia odora and Alocasia reginula, it inherits the best traits of both: the large, upright leaves of A. odora and the dark, velvety texture of A. reginula. The leaves are a deep, dark green on top with a glossy sheen and a striking purplish-bronze or maroon underside. This plant can grow to be several feet tall, making it an excellent focal point.

Essential Care Guide for Alocasia ‘Regal Shields’

• Light: Provide bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight, especially in the afternoon, can easily scorch its large leaves. A spot near a window with a sheer curtain or an east-facing window that receives gentle morning sun is ideal. While it can tolerate some lower light, this may result in leggier growth and less vibrant colors.
• Watering: The key is to keep the soil consistently moist but never soggy. Allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry out before watering again. Overwatering is a common problem and can lead to root rot. As a large plant, it will drink more water than smaller varieties. A good way to check is with the “finger test” or a moisture meter. Ensure the pot has excellent drainage. Reduce watering significantly in the fall and winter, especially if the plant enters a dormant phase.
• Humidity: High humidity is crucial for a healthy and thriving ‘Regal Shields’, ideally 60% or higher. Low humidity can cause the leaves to develop crispy, brown edges. To increase the humidity around your plant, you can:
  • Use a humidifier.
  • Place the pot on a pebble tray filled with water.
  • Group it with other plants.
  • Place it in a naturally humid room like a bathroom or kitchen.
• Soil: Use a very well-draining, airy, and chunky potting mix. A standard potting mix can become too compacted and hold too much moisture. A good blend might include potting soil, perlite, coco coir, and orchid bark to ensure proper drainage and aeration.
• Temperature: The ‘Regal Shields’ prefers a warm and stable environment, with temperatures between 18°C and 27°C (65-80°F). It is sensitive to cold drafts and sudden temperature drops, which can cause the plant to go into a rapid decline or enter dormancy.
• Fertilizer: During the spring and summer growing season, you can feed your plant with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 2-4 weeks. Stop fertilizing in the fall and winter when the plant is not actively growing.

Common Problems and Solutions

• Yellowing Leaves: This is often a classic sign of overwatering. Check the soil moisture and adjust your watering schedule. It can also be a natural part of the plant’s life cycle as old leaves die off to make way for new ones.
• Drooping Leaves: Drooping can indicate either underwatering or overwatering. Check the soil and the plant’s overall environment to determine the cause.
• Pests: Alocasias are susceptible to common houseplant pests, particularly spider mites and mealybugs. Regularly inspect the leaves, especially the undersides. If you find pests, treat the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Dormancy: It is common for Alocasias to go dormant, especially during the cooler, darker months. The leaves may yellow and die back completely. This is a natural process. Simply reduce watering and wait for new growth to emerge from the corm in the spring.

Toxicity

Like all Alocasia species, the ‘Regal Shields’ is toxic if ingested by humans or pets due to the presence of calcium oxalate crystals. Keep it out of reach of curious children and animals. It’s also a good idea to wear gloves when handling the plant, as the sap can be a skin irritant.