Description
- Common names:
- Regal Shields, Elephant Ears, Alocasia Regal Shield, Orejas de Elefante, Escudo Real
- Botanical name:
- Alocasia odora x Alocasia reginula
- Description:
- A stunning hybrid Alocasia with large, shield-shaped leaves featuring dramatic dark green foliage and prominent veining. Creates an impressive tropical focal point indoors.
Features
- Pet & Babies safety:
- Toxic to All Pets (keep out of reach)
- Rarity:
- Uncommon Find
- Form factor:
- Upright Bush, Architectural, Large Foliage, Tropical
- Air Purifier:
- Good Air Purifier (7/10)
- Origin:
- Southeast Asia
- Aesthetic advantages:
- Living Room Statement Piece, Modern Interior Design, Tropical Style Décor, Office Corner Feature, Scandinavian Minimalist Accent
Care Guide
Care level:
For Experienced Owners+
This plant requires consistent attention to watering, humidity, and light conditions, making it best suited for experienced plant owners. It is not forgiving of neglect and needs a strict care routine to thrive.
Light:
Bright / Indirect Light+
Place near an east or north-facing window where it receives bright, filtered light throughout the day. Avoid direct sunlight which can scorch the leaves, and low light which will cause leggy growth and leaf loss.
Water:
Keep Soil Moist+
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels slightly dry to the touch, keeping the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure proper drainage and allow excess water to escape.
Humidity:
Requires Misting+
This tropical plant requires high humidity levels above 60% to thrive and prevent leaf edges from browning. Increase humidity by misting daily, placing on a pebble tray, grouping with other plants, or using a humidifier nearby.
Temperature:
Prefers Warmth+
Thrives in warm temperatures between 18-27°C (65-80°F) and should be kept away from cold drafts, air conditioning vents, and temperatures below 15°C (60°F). Consistent warmth is essential for healthy growth and leaf development.
Hardiness zones:
Zones 10-12+
Hardy outdoors year-round only in USDA Zones 10-12 where temperatures remain consistently warm. In cooler zones, it can be moved outdoors during warm summer months but must be brought inside before temperatures drop below 15°C (60°F).
Fertilizing:
Feed Monthly+
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength once a month during the growing season (spring through summer). Reduce or stop feeding during fall and winter when growth naturally slows.
Repotting:
Repot Every 2-3 Years+
Repot every 2-3 years or when roots begin growing out of drainage holes and the plant becomes top-heavy. Use a well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter and choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one.
Cleaning:
Wipe Leaves Regularly+
Gently wipe the large leaves with a soft, damp cloth every 1-2 weeks to remove dust and improve the plant's ability to photosynthesize. This also helps prevent pest infestations and keeps the foliage looking glossy and vibrant.
Propagation:
Division+
Propagate by carefully dividing the rhizomes during repotting, ensuring each division has at least one growth point and healthy roots. Plant divisions in moist, well-draining soil and maintain high humidity until established.