{"product_id":"alocasia-regal-shield-elephant-ear-dark-foliage","title":"Alocasia Regal Shield - Elephant Ear | Dramatic Dark Foliage","description":"\u003ch1\u003e(Shipped in its own box) Alocasia Regal Shield - The Majestic Statement Plant\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIntroducing the \u003cstrong\u003eAlocasia Regal Shield\u003c\/strong\u003e, one of the most spectacular and sought-after Alocasia hybrids available! This stunning plant truly lives up to its regal name, featuring enormous shield-shaped leaves in deep, dark green that borders on black, contrasted beautifully by rich burgundy-purple undersides and bold light green veining. It's a plant that commands attention and transforms any space into a tropical sanctuary.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis impressive hybrid was created in 2007 by renowned hybridiser LariAnn Garner at Aroidia Research in Florida, crossing Alocasia odora with Alocasia reginula 'Black Velvet'. The result is a plant that combines the impressive size and vigour of A. odora with the velvety dark leaf texture of Black Velvet. The cross was considered unlikely due to the vastly different characteristics of the parent plants, making this hybrid a true achievement in Alocasia breeding. It was granted US Plant Patent PP27,050 in 2016 and has since become one of the most prolific Alocasia hybrids in cultivation worldwide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Choose Alocasia Regal Shield?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eShowstopping Foliage!\u003c\/strong\u003e Massive shield-shaped leaves with dark green to almost black upper surfaces and stunning purple undersides.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eArchitectural Presence!\u003c\/strong\u003e Bold, upright growth habit creates an instant focal point in any room.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eImpressive Size!\u003c\/strong\u003e Can grow to 90-150cm tall indoors with leaves up to 60cm across.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVelvety Texture!\u003c\/strong\u003e Matte, almost felt-like leaf surface inherited from Black Velvet parent.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAward-Winning Hybrid!\u003c\/strong\u003e Patented cultivar bred for impressive form and indoor performance.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSurprisingly Adaptable!\u003c\/strong\u003e More tolerant than many Alocasias once established.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eThe Dramatic Look\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat makes Alocasia Regal Shield so captivating is its incredible colour contrast. The upper leaf surface displays a deep, dark green that can appear almost black in certain lighting, with a matte, velvety sheen that's remarkably eye-catching. This dark canvas is beautifully accented by prominent light green to creamy white veins that create a striking visual pattern.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTurn the leaf over and you're greeted by an equally stunning burgundy-purple to deep red underside, adding unexpected colour and depth to the plant's appearance. The thick, light green stems (petioles) provide additional contrast, holding the substantial leaves proudly upright in an architectural display.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMature specimens can produce fragrant lily-like flowers in spring and summer, with a light green spike surrounded by a creamy spathe. The blooms emit a beautiful perfume that's particularly noticeable at night.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eLight Requirements\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlocasia Regal Shield thrives in bright indirect light but is adaptable to medium light conditions. A position near an east or west-facing window where light is filtered through a sheer curtain works beautifully. The plant can handle some morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon direct sunlight, which will scorch the leaves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eToo little light will slow growth, reduce leaf size, and can trigger dormancy. If your plant starts dropping leaves or producing smaller foliage, it may need a brighter position. Rotate your plant every few weeks to ensure even growth on all sides, as it will naturally lean towards the light source.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWatering Your Alocasia Regal Shield\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConsistent moisture is key to keeping your Regal Shield happy, but there's a fine line between moist and waterlogged. Allow the top 5cm of soil to dry out between waterings, then water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom of the pot. Never let the plant sit in standing water.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt's important to only water when it suits the environment your plant is living in, as everyone's home is different!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDuring the warmer growing months (spring through summer), you'll water more frequently, perhaps every 7-10 days depending on conditions. In winter, when growth slows, reduce watering and allow the soil to dry out more between drinks. Overwatering is the most common cause of problems with Alocasias, leading to root rot and fungal issues.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRegal Shield can be sensitive to minerals and chemicals in tap water, which may cause leaf spotting. If possible, use filtered water or rainwater, or leave tap water out overnight before using to allow chlorine to dissipate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eThe Perfect Potting Mix\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis Alocasia needs a rich, well-draining potting mix that holds moisture without becoming waterlogged. Our Ultimate Aroid Mix is ideal, or create your own using a combination of quality potting mix, orchid bark, perlite, and coco coir. The soil should be slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5-7.0) and provide excellent aeration to the roots.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGood drainage is essential. Always use a pot with drainage holes and avoid letting the roots sit in soggy soil, which quickly leads to root rot. When repotting, choose a container only slightly larger than the current one, as Alocasias prefer to be somewhat snug in their pots.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHumidity Matters\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eComing from tropical parentage, Alocasia Regal Shield loves humidity levels between 60-80%. In the average Australian home, particularly during winter when heating dries the air, you'll likely need to boost humidity around your plant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe best way to increase humidity is by grouping your Regal Shield with other tropical plants to create a humid microclimate. Bathrooms and kitchens with good natural light often provide the extra humidity these plants crave. A humidifier is an excellent investment if you're serious about growing humidity-loving tropicals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSigns of low humidity include brown, crispy leaf edges and tips. If you notice this, focus on increasing the ambient moisture around your plant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTemperature\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlocasia Regal Shield prefers warm, stable temperatures between 18-27°C. It doesn't tolerate cold well, so keep it above 15°C and well away from cold drafts, air conditioning vents, and draughty windows. Prolonged exposure to temperatures below 15°C can trigger dormancy and leaf drop.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDespite being cold-sensitive, Regal Shield is actually quite wind resistant and can be grown outdoors on sheltered balconies or patios during the warmer months, as long as it's protected from direct sun and brought inside when temperatures drop.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFeeding for Healthy Growth\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlocasia Regal Shield is a strong feeder that benefits from regular nutrition during the growing season. From September through March, feed with \u003cstrong\u003eGrowth Technology Foliage Focus\u003c\/strong\u003e at 3-5ml per litre of water at every watering for optimum results. Add \u003cstrong\u003eGrowth Technology Rootzone\u003c\/strong\u003e at 1ml per litre every 2-4 weeks in conjunction with your regular feeding to support the substantial root system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFlush monthly with plain water to remove traces of mineral salts build up, which can cause leaf tip burn. Reduce feeding in autumn and stop completely during winter when growth slows or the plant goes dormant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWinter Dormancy\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLike many Alocasias, Regal Shield may enter a dormancy period during the cooler, darker months. Growth will slow dramatically, and the plant may drop some or all of its leaves. This is a natural response to reduced light and cooler temperatures, not a sign of plant death!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDuring dormancy, reduce watering significantly (the underground rhizome is still alive and can rot if kept too wet), stop fertilising, and keep the plant in a warm spot. Avoid the temptation to overwater or fuss too much. Once spring arrives and conditions improve, new growth will emerge from the rhizome.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou can help prevent dormancy by providing supplemental light and maintaining warmth and humidity through winter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003ePropagation\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlocasia Regal Shield produces corms (underground bulb-like structures) and offsets that can be separated and propagated. When repotting, check for small cormels or baby plants growing from the mother plant. These can be carefully separated and potted up individually.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInterestingly, Regal Shield is believed to be sterile and does not produce viable seeds, which is common in hybrid plants with mismatched chromosome counts from different parent species. This means propagation is limited to division and corm separation. Use \u003cstrong\u003eClonex Clone Solution\u003c\/strong\u003e to help divisions establish strong root systems.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eGrowing Support\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlocasia Regal Shield has a naturally upright growth habit and typically doesn't require staking. The thick stems hold the large leaves proudly erect. However, if your plant becomes top-heavy or develops a lean towards the light, you can provide support with a simple stake or use one of our \u003cstrong\u003eGrow Vertical Propsticks\u003c\/strong\u003e for a more elegant solution.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCare Tips for Success\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePrioritise humidity\u003c\/strong\u003e by grouping with other plants or using a humidifier.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAvoid overwatering!\u003c\/strong\u003e Let the top 5cm dry between waterings.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUse well-draining soil\u003c\/strong\u003e to prevent root rot.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eKeep warm\u003c\/strong\u003e and away from cold drafts and temperature fluctuations.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRotate regularly\u003c\/strong\u003e for even growth.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWipe leaves regularly\u003c\/strong\u003e to remove dust and maintain their beautiful sheen.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDon't panic at dormancy!\u003c\/strong\u003e Leaf drop in winter is normal.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUse filtered or rainwater\u003c\/strong\u003e if possible to prevent leaf spotting.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCommon Issues and Solutions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eYellow leaves:\u003c\/strong\u003e Most commonly caused by overwatering or insufficient light. Check your watering schedule and ensure soil is drying adequately. Can also indicate natural ageing of older leaves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBrown, crispy leaf edges:\u003c\/strong\u003e Usually a sign of low humidity or salt buildup from tap water. Increase ambient moisture and flush soil regularly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDrooping leaves:\u003c\/strong\u003e Can indicate either overwatering (check for mushy stems and root rot) or underwatering (soil bone dry). Also caused by cold stress or sudden temperature changes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLeaf drop:\u003c\/strong\u003e Normal during winter dormancy. At other times, may indicate cold stress, insufficient light, or inconsistent watering.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePale or faded leaves:\u003c\/strong\u003e Too much direct sunlight bleaching the foliage. Move to a spot with bright but indirect light.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpider mites:\u003c\/strong\u003e Regal Shield has moderate resistance to spider mites but can still be affected, especially in dry conditions. Check undersides of leaves regularly and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil if needed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eImportant Safety Note\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlocasia Regal Shield contains calcium oxalate crystals which are toxic if ingested by pets or humans. Ingestion can cause mouth and throat irritation, difficulty swallowing, and stomach upset. Keep this plant out of reach of curious pets and children.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003ePerfect For\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCreating a bold, tropical statement in living rooms and offices\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlant collectors wanting an award-winning hybrid\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSpacious rooms that can accommodate a substantial plant\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAnyone wanting dramatic, architectural foliage\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHumid environments like bright bathrooms\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSheltered outdoor spaces during warmer months\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003ePlease Keep in Mind\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach plant is unique and may vary slightly from the images shown. The photos are representative examples of the quality and characteristics you can expect, but natural variations in leaf colour intensity, vein prominence, and growth habit make every plant one-of-a-kind. This individuality is part of what makes growing plants so special! For information on how your plant will be shipped, please refer to our shipping and delivery section.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIf you are from a quarantine restricted state and would like to purchase this plant we recommend using Paradise Distributors concierge service, make sure to contact them prior to purchasing: info@rareplants.net.au\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Growing Grounds Australia","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52871499776213,"sku":null,"price":35.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0720\/5211\/3621\/files\/19D9D054-FB14-4BB4-908B-0B5205472ED6.jpg?v=1769136506","url":"https:\/\/growinggroundsaustralia.com\/products\/alocasia-regal-shield-elephant-ear-dark-foliage","provider":"Growing Grounds Australia","version":"1.0","type":"link"}