Alocasia ‘Bisma’ – Rare Metallic-Foliage Hybrid with Dragon-Scale Texture
Alocasia ‘Bisma’ is a rare, nursery-developed tropical cultivar prized for its sculpted, metallic-toned leaves. Medium- to dark-silver green foliage with prominent, raised veins and a dragon-scale texture gives this compact plant an elegant yet bold character. Its upright, space-efficient habit makes it a favourite for collectors and design-led interiors where detail and texture matter.
● Why Alocasia ‘Bisma’ Stands Out in a Collection
- Unique surface pattern: ribbed, scale-like leaf texture with a subtle metallic sheen that shifts with the light.
- Space-conscious form: upright clumping habit ideal for desks, shelves, and display tables.
- Collector appeal: a low-availability hybrid that combines ornamental foliage with manageable growth.
● Provenance and Growth Traits
- Origin: modern nursery hybrid; no wild occurrence.
- Also marketed as: Alocasia ‘Emerald Dragon Scale’ (trade name).
- Growth type: tuberous, herbaceous perennial with moderate indoor growth rate.
- Toxicity: contains calcium oxalates; harmful if ingested by humans or pets.
● Growing Alocasia ‘Bisma’ – Light, Water, and More
Light Preferences
- Best in bright, indirect light to enhance metallic tones and vein contrast.
- Avoid strong midday sun to prevent surface scorch; softer morning light is ideal.
Watering Practices
- Water when the top 10 – 15 % of the mix feels dry; keep evenly moist but never waterlogged.
- Always use pots with drainage holes and empty saucers after watering.
Soil Recommendations
- Airy, free-draining mix such as coconut coir, orchid bark, and perlite.
Humidity and Temperature
- Maintain 60 – 80 % humidity for crisp leaf edges; prolonged drops below 50 % can cause browning.
- Keep temperatures between 18 – 24 °C; avoid cold drafts or rapid changes.
Fertilising Schedule
- Feed monthly with a balanced liquid fertiliser during active growth.
- Flush the mix occasionally to avoid fertiliser salt accumulation.
Repotting and Semi-Hydro
- Repot every 12 – 18 months or when roots fill the pot; increase size by no more than 2 – 3 cm.
- Adapts well to mineral or semi-hydro substrates with steady moisture and nutrient supply.
● Pro Tips for Exceptional Growth
Angle it to catch side light for enhanced sheen • Rotate every 2 – 3 weeks for balanced form • Use rain or distilled water in hard-water areas • Expect slower growth in winter due to lower light, not dormancy – adjust watering but keep humidity steady
● Troubleshooting Guide
Pests
- Check undersides for spider mites, thrips, and mealybugs; treat early with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Leaf and Root Concerns
- Yellow leaves: often linked to overwatering or compacted soil – refresh mix and reduce watering.
- Brown edges or tips: low humidity or inconsistent watering – maintain stable moisture and humidity above 60 %.
● Name Origin
The genus name Alocasia was historically used to distinguish these plants from Colocasia. The cultivar name ‘Bisma’ comes from the Urdu word بسمہ, meaning “caregiver, polite, obedient, or significant,” adding a layer of cultural meaning to this ornamental hybrid.
● Quick QandA for Alocasia ‘Bisma’ Care
- How often to water? When the top 10 – 15 % of soil is dry; adjust frequency seasonally.
- Can it grow in low light? No – it needs bright, indirect light to maintain colour and vigour.
- Humidity requirements? At least 60 % to prevent crisping and keep leaves lush.
- Does it tolerate semi-hydro? Yes, if nutrients and moisture are kept consistent.
Add Alocasia ‘Bisma’ to your collection today – a metallic-textured, space-friendly hybrid that brings sculptural elegance to any indoor space. Limited availability – order now.
Alocasia 'Bisma'
Alocasia 'Bisma'comes in following sizes:
S – comes in a ⌀ 10.5 cm pot and is ca 15 cm tall
M – comes in a ⌀ 12 cm pot and is ca 20 cm tall
