Alocasia 'Regal Shields' – Dramatic, Shield-Shaped Foliage for Statement Displays


Alocasia 'Regal Shields' delivers near-black, satiny leaves with bold venation and wine-toned undersides — a high-contrast look that reads as sculpture from across the room. Bred by LariAnn Garner (Aroidia Research) from Alocasia odora × Alocasia reginula ‘Black Velvet’, this hybrid balances presence and manageability for indoor growers who want a true centerpiece without diva behaviour.


Key Traits of Alocasia 'Regal Shields'



 
Showpiece leaves: Broad, shield-like blades with defined veins; upper surface dark green to almost black, undersides burgundy-purple.
 
Room-filling habit: Typically 30–120 cm tall and 61–91 cm wide indoors (mature plants with good care).
 
Robust build: Upright structure, thick rhizomatous base, and speckled petioles that hold leaves proudly.
 
Moderate spider-mite resistance: More tolerant than many Alocasia, but still monitor routinely.
 
Verified parentage: A. odora × A. reginula ‘Black Velvet’; selected and released by Aroidia Research.


Complete Indoor Care Guide for Alocasia 'Regal Shields'


Light & Placement



 
Best in bright, indirect light; short early/late sun is fine behind sheer cover.
 
Long hours of harsh sun will mark leaves — step back or diffuse if edges bronze.


Watering



 
Water when the top 10–15% of the mix is dry; don’t let the root zone sit wet.
 
Aim for even moisture with clear drainage — soggy substrate = root rot risk.


Temperature & Humidity



 
Ideal range: 18–27 °C; avoid exposure below ~10 °C.
 
Performs best with RH ≥60%. Stable, higher ambient humidity keeps leaf edges clean.


Soil, Repotting & Nutrition



 
Use a fast-draining aroid mix with coconut coir, perlite, and chunky orchid bark.
 
Repot when roots circle the pot or water flows straight through — typically every 12–24 months.
 
Feed monthly at a low dose with balanced liquid fertilizer; flush occasionally to prevent salt buildup.


Propagation & Special Notes



 
Propagate by corm/offset division; tissue-culture production is standard. Seed set is not relied on.
 
Well-suited to mineral or inert semi-hydro substrates (passive setups work if you keep oxygenation and EC in check).
 
Remove spent or damaged leaves at the base to redirect energy to new growth.


Flowering Characteristics (What to Expect)



 
Produces spadix/spathe inflorescences intermittently in warm seasons; individual blooms last around 2–3 weeks.
 
Male flowers are typically undeveloped; fruit and seed have not been observed in trials — plan on vegetative propagation.
 
Inflorescences can have a light, acidic fragrance.


Troubleshooting Tips for Healthy Alocasia 'Regal Shields'



 
Yellowing leaves: Commonly excess moisture at roots; let the top layer dry deeper and check drainage.
 
Brown edges/tips: Usually low humidity or irregular watering; stabilise both.
 
Pale new leaves: Often low nutrients or insufficient light; adjust feed/light before overwatering.
 
Slow growth or droop: Cool temps, tight roots, or recent repot stress; keep warm and steady, don’t overcorrect.
 
Pests: Watch for spider mites, thrips, mealybugs; treat early with insecticidal soap and isolate until clear.
 
Root rot: Cut affected tissue, refresh into airy mix, and water sparingly until recovery.


Origin, Parentage & Protected Status



 
Breeding: Developed by LariAnn Garner (Aroidia Research) from Alocasia odora × Alocasia reginula ‘Black Velvet’.
 
Plant patent: US Plant Patent PP27,050 (9 Aug 2016). Patent observations include undeveloped male flowers and no fruit/seed observed.


Quick Facts People Ask About



 
How fast does Alocasia 'Regal Shields' grow? Moderate; faster in warm, bright, stable conditions with consistent moisture.
 
How big do leaves get indoors? Commonly ~20–30 cm on well-grown plants; larger blades are possible on established specimens.
 
Can it live outdoors? Yes, in frost-free climates where minimums stay safely above 10 °C; otherwise grow in containers and protect from cold.
 
Does it “go dormant” indoors? Growth can slow in cooler, darker months; it’s a response to conditions, not true dormancy. Keep conditions stable and avoid heavy watering when growth is slow.
 
Is it pet-safe? No — contains insoluble calcium oxalates; keep away from pets and children.


Order Alocasia 'Regal Shields' Today
Ready for bold, architectural foliage? Add Alocasia 'Regal Shields' to your collection now — a durable, high-impact hybrid that elevates any indoor setup.