Alocasia 'Regal shields'

Botanical & Common Names
- Botanical name: Alocasia 'Regal Shields'
- Common names: Elephant Ear

Background & Origin
Alocasia ‘Regal Shields’ is a hybrid of Alocasia odora and Alocasia reginula, both native to Southeast Asia. Its leaves resemble small shields, with deep purple, slightly ruffled undersides and prominent veins supported by slender green stems. Similar in colour to Alocasia wentii, this hybrid combines bold architectural foliage with tropical elegance, making it a striking addition to any home.

Care Level
- Care level: Moderate
- Suitable for beginners: If following care instructions!

What It Loves
- Bright indirect sunlight
- A consistent watering routine
- Some humidity

What It Dislikes
- Overwatering or sitting in soggy soil
- Cold draughts
- Prolonged direct sunlight, which can scorch leaves

Best Rooms for This Plant
- Living rooms
- Bathroom
- Kitchens
- Bedrooms

Growth Potential
- Typical height indoors: Up 1-2 m tall with time
- Typical spread: Up to 0.5 - 1.5 m wide
- Growth rate: Moderate during spring and summer
- Pruning required: Occasional, to manage size or old foliage

Care Difficulty: This plant has moderate care needs.

Light requirements: In its native habitat it grows on the jungle floor and receives bright, dappled light that breaks through the canopy above. As an indoor plant, it requires bright but indirect light.

Watering: Water thoroughly after allowing the top 2 inches of soil to dry out. This plant does not like overwatering so make sure the soil has sufficient drainage and that the pot has drainage holes. During winter they go through a dormancy period so cut back on the watering.

Humidity: Alocasia loves humidity. Grouping humidity-loving plants together can help, as can placing pots of a wet pebble tray. You can mist the area around the foliage although this will only increase humidity temporarily. Be cautious to not mist excessively as this can lead to fungal issues. Humidifiers are also beneficial to increase humidity.

Toxicity: Toxic to pets & humans.

Feeding: Alocasia's can be fed in the growing season during spring and summer, but refrain from feeding in winter.

Repotting: Can be repotted every 1-2 years or when it has outgrown its current pot. Use a chunky soil mix, ideally one created for Alocasias or aroids, that can retain moisture without becoming clumpy and sodden. If the plant doesn't need a larger pot then the soil can just be refreshed.

Leaf health: As with all houseplants, the build-up of dust on the foliage can be detrimental, ensure you are wiping the leaves clean with a damp cloth every couple of weeks to remove any debris.