Alocasia baginda ‘Dragon Scale’
is a highly sought after alocasia with metallic green and silver leaves. The Alocasia genus is native to subtropical Asia and Eastern Australia. The ‘Dragon Scale’ variety has silver, metallic leaves with narrow, dark green veins, that make it resemble a dragon scale. The leaves are velvety, much like Alocasia ‘Frydek’ and other Alocasia varieties.
Care Tips
As it’s a tropical plant, this plant prefers warmer temperatures and higher humidity. Direct sun will burn the leaves, so keep it in bright, indirect light for best growth. It can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 and a half feet wide. These plants prefer the soil to stay moist, but not damp. Fertilizing frequently is not necessary for this plant. Because of its humidity preferences, the Alocasia ‘Dragon Scale’ is susceptible to fungus and pest infestations from spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. All these conditions can be remedied with Neem oil, a natural pesticide and fungicide commonly found at chain hardware stores. For soil, use a chunky “aroid” mix with plenty of perlite, orchid bark, and peat moss.
Cool Facts About Alocasia:
This plant is actually related to the common “Elephant Ear” plant, or Alocasia gigantea, which can grow LEAVES that are 1.5 meters long! Just the leaves!
