If you’re looking for a lush and luxurious houseplant, Alocasia ‘Regal Shield’ is the perfect choice. This stunning plant is easy to care for, and with the right growing conditions, it can thrive indoors for years.
Learn how to grow and care for Alocasia Regal Shield in this blog post.
We’ll cover everything you need to know, from planting to watering to fertilizing. So read on to find out how you can bring this beautiful Alocasia plant into your home!
Plant Facts
| Scientific name | Alocasia ‘Regal Shield’ |
| Common names | Elephant ear |
| Family | Araceae |
| Plant Type | Houseplant |
| Height and Width | 9’ tall, 4’ wide |
| Origin | Asia, Borneo, and Eastern Australia |
| Flower colors | White |
| Foliage color | Dark green |
| Sun Exposure | Dappled or indirect sunlight |
| Soil Type & pH | Well-drained soil |
| Special features | Low maintenance, likes humidity, fast grower |
How to Grow Alocasia ‘Regal Shield’
Alocasia ‘Regal Shield’ is a beautiful, eye-catching indoor plant that is perfect for adding a touch of tropical flair to any home. While it can be grown outdoors in some areas, it is most often grown as a houseplant. This gorgeous alocasia variety is easy to care for and makes an excellent choice for beginner gardeners.
When growing Alocasia ‘Regal Shield’, it is important to choose a pot that is slightly larger than the plant’s root ball. The pot should also have drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
Alocasia ‘Regal Shield’ is typically considered an easy-care plant. However, there are a few things to keep in mind in order to keep your plant healthy and thriving. We’ll tell you what you need to know!
Propagation
Propagating is a relatively easy process that can be done by stem cuttings or division.
For stem cuttings, simply take a sharp knife or pair of scissors and cut a piece of stem that includes at least 2-3 leaves. Place the cutting in a well-draining potting mix and water regularly.
Within a few weeks, you should see new growth emerge from the soil.
If you are propagating by division, carefully remove the parent plant from its pot and gently divide the root ball into two or three sections. Each section should include several healthy roots and at least one leaf.
Replant the divisions in fresh potting mix and water well. With a little care, your houseplant will be thriving in no time!
Soil
The ideal soil type for these kinds of plants is a rich, well-draining mix. The soil mixture should be composed of two parts peat moss and one part perlite or coarse sand.
They like well-draining, fertile soils that are rich in organic matter and have good aeration. The ideal potting mix for them would be two parts of garden soil, one part of perlite or coarse sand, and one part of manure or compost.
This mixture provides both drainage and nutrients, while the organic matter helps the soil retain some moisture. It’s important to monitor soil moisture regularly, watering when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, but avoiding soggy conditions.
Pruning
Like all plants, alocasia regal shields require regular maintenance to keep them looking their best. One important task is pruning, which helps to promote new growth and remove damaged or diseased leaves.Â
When pruning your plants, it is important to use sharp, sterile shears or knives. Make sure to make clean cuts at an angle, being careful not to damage the plant. Also, be sure to remove any yellow or brown leaves, as these are signs of stress or disease.
With proper care and attention, your plant will continue to thrive for many years to come.
Repotting and Transplanting
Alocasia ‘Regal Shield’ can be repotted or transplanted at any time of year, but it is best to do so during the spring or summer when the plant is actively growing.
When repotting, be sure to use a slightly larger pot than the one the plant is currently in. Transplanting should only be done if necessary, as the plant does not take kindly to being moved. When transplanting, choose a location that has moist, well-drained soil and partial to full sun.
Be sure to dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and mix in some compost or peat moss to help with drainage. Water the plant well after transplanting and keep the soil moist until new growth appears. By following these simple tips, you can successfully repot or transplant your houseplant.
How to Care for Alocasia ‘Regal Shield’
Alocasia ‘Regal Shield’ is a beautiful houseplant that is relatively easy to care for. It prefers bright, indirect light and evenly moist soil. With proper care, your houseplant will thrive and provide you with years of enjoyment.
Water
When watering your houseplant, it is important to know how much water the plant needs, how often to water it, and how to water it properly.
Too much or too little water can damage the plant. The amount of water the plant needs depends on the pot size, type of soil, and temperature.
A good rule of thumb is to water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry. The frequency of watering will also depend on these factors. In general, your plant should be watered about once a week. To water the plant properly, soak the roots in water for about 15 minutes and then let the plant drain for about 30 minutes before putting it back in its pot.
Sunlight
When it comes to light, the Regal Shield prefers bright, indirect sunlight. If you live in a colder climate, it is best to place this plant indoors near a south- or west-facing window.
However, if you live in a tropical climate, your plant will be happiest if you can provide it with some dappled sunlight throughout the day.Â
Temperature and Humidity
Alocasia ‘Regal Shield’ thrives in humid environments with moderate to high temperature. They are native to Southeast Asia where the temperature is mostly at an average of 78 degrees Fahrenheit and the humidity is about 60-90%.
Alocasia regal shield grow best under partial shade but can also tolerate bright shade or full sun as long as keeping the soil consistently moist. When the temperature drops below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, they start to experience leaf dropping.Â
It is important to maintain high humidity levels for this plant as it helps prevent leaf browning and avoids stress. One way to do this is to mist the leaves regularly or place the plant on a pebble tray.
Fertilizer
While this plant is relatively low-maintenance, it does require occasional fertilization to stay healthy and vibrant. The best time to fertilize this kind of houseplant is in the spring, when the plant is actively growing.
However, it can also be fertilized during the summer and early fall. When fertilizing, use a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer at half the recommended strength. This will provide the essential nutrients the plant needs without the risk of over-fertilization.
Apply the fertilizer according to the package directions, and be sure to water the plant thoroughly after applying it.
With proper care, your plant will continue to thrive for many years to come.
Pest and diseases
Alocasia are beautiful, tropical plants that are prized by gardeners for their dramatic foliage. While they are relatively easy to care for, they can be susceptible to a number of pests and diseases.
Fungal Leaf Spot
One of the most common problems is fungal leaf spot, which causes brown or black lesions on the leaves. This can be controlled with fungicide, but it is important to catch it early.
Aphids
Aphids are tiny, sap-sucking insects that can cause serious damage to houseplants. These pests feast on the leaves of plants, causing them to turn yellow and curl up. In addition, aphids secrete a sticky substance known as honeydew, which can lead to the growth of unsightly mold on plant leaves. If left unchecked, aphids can quickly destroy a houseplant.
Luckily, there are a few things you can do to get rid of aphids. One option is to blast them off with a strong stream of water from the hose. For tougher infestations, you may need to use an insecticide.
Whiteflies
Whiteflies are one of the most common pests that can infest houseplants. These tiny insects feed on plant sap, causing leaves to yellow and wilt. In addition, whiteflies can spread disease from plant to plant. Fortunately, there are a number of things you can do to get rid of whiteflies.
First, try to keep your houseplants clean and free of debris. This will help reduce the chances of whiteflies infesting your plants. Second, consider using an insecticidal soap or oils. These products will kill whiteflies on contact and help to prevent them from coming back.
Scale
Another one of the most common problems is scale, which appears as small, white bumps on the leaves. Scale can be difficult to control, but regular spraying with an insecticidal soap will help to keep the problem in check.
Root Rot
Another common issue is root rot, which is caused by too much moisture around the roots. This can often be addressed by simply increasing the drainage in the pot or planting area.
Common Varieties and Cultivars
Alocasia ‘Regal Shield’ is one of the most popular types of alocasia, but there are many other varieties that are also loved by plant enthusiasts.
A. cuprea, for example, is prized for its deep green leaves and copper-colored veins.
A. portei, on the other hand, is known for its large leaves and white stem.
And then there’s Alocasia ‘Polly’ which is a hybrid variety that is known for being relatively easy to care for.
No matter which type of alocasia you choose, you’re sure to end up with a beautiful and exotic-looking plant.
FAQs
Can you grow alocasia regal shield in water?
While Alocasia Regal Shields can grow in water for a short period during propagation, it is not ideal for long-term growth. They thrive better in well-draining soil that can retain moisture but also allow excess water to drain away.
Does alocasia need a lot of sunlight?
Yes, Alocasia plants, including Regal Shields, do need a good amount of sunlight, preferably bright, indirect light. Direct light can cause leaf burn, while too little light can slow growth and weaken the plant.
Why are Alocasia so hard to keep alive?
Alocasia can be hard to keep alive due to their specific care requirements, including the need for high humidity, consistent watering without overwatering, and avoiding sudden temperature changes. These plants are sensitive to changes in their environment.
Is Alocasia Regal Shield rare?
No, Alocasia Regal Shield is not particularly rare, but it is considered a desirable variety for its large, striking leaves with dark green and purple hues. While not as common as some other Alocasia varieties, it is generally available through plant nurseries and online sources.
Conclusion
Alocasia ‘Regal Shield’ plants are a great addition to any garden or outdoor space. They are easy to grow and care for, and they add a touch of elegance and beauty that is sure to impress.
If you’re thinking about adding these plants to your yard or garden, consider this: Regal Shield Alocasia plants love shade! Plant them in an area where they will get plenty of indirect sunlight, and make sure the soil is moist at all times.
Water regularly, especially during hot weather spells, and fertilize every month or so with a balanced plant food. Prune off any dead leaves as needed, but avoid over-pruning as this can damage the plant.
With just a little bit of TLC, you can grow some thriving houseplants that are sure to impress each and every one of your visitors.
See more: Alocasia black velvet
*image by jobrestful/depositphotos
