The Regal Shield is a stunning variety of the Alocasia family, known for its large, dark green, heart-shaped leaves with contrasting silvery veins. This plant is often admired for its dramatic appearance and can be a showstopper in your home or garden.

Origin:

• The Regal Shield is a cultivar of Alocasia micholitziana, native to tropical regions of Southeast Asia, particularly the Philippines. It thrives in warm, humid environments and is often found in rainforests and jungle areas, where it receives filtered sunlight and consistently moist conditions.

Care Guide for Regal Shield (Alocasia micholitziana):

Light:

• Bright, indirect light: Regal Shield plants thrive in bright, indirect light. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight, which can scorch their delicate leaves.
• Tolerates some shade: While they prefer bright light, they can tolerate low light for short periods, but growth may slow down, and the vibrant leaf colors may fade.

Watering:

• Consistent moisture: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Alocasia plants are very sensitive to both overwatering and underwatering.
• Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry: Use a well-draining potting mix and a pot with drainage holes to prevent root rot.
• Humidity is key: These plants love high humidity (60% or more). Misting the leaves regularly, using a humidifier, or placing the plant on a humidity tray can help maintain a suitable environment.

Temperature:

• Warm temperatures: Regal Shield prefers temperatures between 65–80°F (18–27°C). It’s sensitive to cold and should be kept away from drafts or temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
• Avoid sudden temperature changes: Keep the plant in a stable environment, as sudden temperature fluctuations can stress it.

Soil:

• Well-draining, airy soil: Use a rich, well-draining potting mix. A mix designed for aroids or a combination of potting soil, perlite, and orchid bark works well. This will allow proper aeration and drainage to prevent root rot.

Fertilizing:

• Moderate feeding: During the growing season (spring and summer), feed your Regal Shield monthly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer at half strength. Reduce feeding in the fall and winter when the plant is not actively growing.

Potting & Repotting:

• Repot every 1-2 years: Repot when the plant outgrows its pot or when the soil needs refreshing. Choose a pot that’s slightly larger than the current one and ensure it has good drainage.
• Be cautious of root rot: Always check for healthy roots when repotting and avoid overcrowding.

General Care Tips:

• Leaf care: Wipe leaves gently with a damp cloth to remove dust and maintain their glossy finish. Be careful not to damage the sensitive leaves.
• Pests: Alocasias can occasionally be susceptible to pests like spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. Regularly check for signs of infestation and treat promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Dormancy: During the fall and winter, the plant may go dormant and lose some leaves. This is normal, and it should recover in the spring with proper care.

Potential Issues:

• Yellowing leaves: Often a sign of overwatering or poor drainage. Ensure the soil is not waterlogged, and check for root rot.
• Brown leaf tips: Usually indicates low humidity or inconsistent watering.
• Leggy growth: This can be caused by insufficient light. Move the plant to a brighter location to promote healthy, compact growth.