Botanical Name: Alocasia 'Regal Shields'
Common Name(s): Regal Shields Alocasia, Elephant Ear, Shield Alocasia

The Alocasia 'Regal Shields' is an impressive and visually striking cultivar of the Alocasia, loved for its large, dramatic foliage and bold visual appearance. Native to Southeast Asia, this variety is particularly popular for its enormous, shield-shaped leaves, which add a touch of grandeur to any space. With its rich, glossy green leaves and prominent veins, it’s a plant that commands attention in any collection or space.

The leaves of the Alocasia Regal Shields are large and shield-like, typically growing to sizes of 12–18 inches (30–45 cm) long, though in optimal conditions, they can reach even larger sizes. The deep green foliage has a shiny, almost waxy-like texture, and the prominent veins—often a lighter shade of green or silver—create a striking contrast against the dark green leaf surface. These large, dramatic leaves give the plant an exotic, tropical vibe, making it perfect as a focal point in indoor gardens or as a statement plant in larger spaces.

This Alocasia thrives in bright, indirect light, where the colors of its leaves truly shine. While it can tolerate lower light conditions, its growth will slow, and its foliage may lose some of its vibrancy. As with most Alocasia species, direct sunlight should be avoided, as it can scorch the delicate leaves. It’s best to place the Regal Shields near a window that provides plenty of filtered light, allowing the plant to receive ample indirect sunlight without exposure to direct rays.

The Alocasia Regal Shields  prefers warm and humid conditions, thriving in temperatures between 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C). It can reach a height of 3–4 feet (90–120 cm) when fully mature, making it a perfect choice for adding vertical interest to a room or for use in larger indoor spaces. Its love for humidity makes it an ideal candidate for humid environments like bathrooms, kitchens, or rooms equipped with a humidifier. For best results, misting the plant regularly or placing it on a humidity tray will help create the moisture levels it craves.

Like most Alocasias, the Regal Shields enjoys consistently moist soil, but it's important not to overwater. The soil should be kept moist but never soggy, as excess water can lead to root rot. During the cooler months, the plant may slow down or enter a dormant phase, in which case watering should be reduced slightly. It’s a slow-growing species, so it doesn’t require frequent repotting, making it relatively low-maintenance once established.

Note: As with other Alocasia species, the Regal Shields Alocasia is toxic to pets. Its sap can cause irritation if ingested, so it should be kept out of reach of cats, dogs, and other animals