The Alocasia Dragon Scale plant, or the Elephant Ear, is a houseplant that looks like something out of a fantasy movie. This unique plant is a cultivated variety of Alocasia Baginda. It’s a popular hit for indoor plant lovers around the world. It’s an excellent option if you live in an apartment without a garden.
If you are looking to grow and care for your own Alocasia Dragon Scale, then this guide is for you. Below you’ll find tips on water and light requirements, soil composition, and a few other things!
First though, where does it get its unusual name from?
An overview of the Alocasia Dragon Scale
Alocasia Dragon Scale plants get their name from the dragon-like scales that grow on their leaves as they mature. These interesting patterns not only look different, but they also create a waxy barrier against frost and harsh sun. It’s one of the showiest plants in the Araceae family. This family is best known for the unique features of distinctive flowers borne on what’s called a spadix, and surrounded by a leaflike bract (a spathe).
It’s a beautiful plant, admired not only for its exotic emerald-green leaves but also because it’s easy to care for. Even though they can be expensive to buy, these plants make wonderful houseplants as they enhance any room that they are placed in.
While it’s straightforward to look after, it’s important to get the water and light right if you want them to flourish. Here’s what you need to look out for.
Water and light requirements
Alocasia Dragon Scale plants need bright, indirect light for at least 6 to 8 hours each day. They are grown indoors but do well in an outdoor environment as well. When grown indoors, you should water them every other day so that the soil doesn’t get too wet and cause root rot. If you are looking to grow them outdoors, you should water them daily to make sure they get enough moisture.
If you are unsure of when to water, your best bet is to do so once the top two to three inches of soil feels dry.
What about direct sunlight? Don’t place them in direct sunlight as you’ll scorch the leaves and you’ll have a very unhappy plant.
If you follow these suggestions and give your Alocasia Dragon Scale the right amount of water and light, you’ll have a thriving plant in no time.
What about soil composition?
Proper soil composition can make or break an Alocasia Dragon Scale plant!
They grow best in a soil mixture of rich, fast-draining potting mix and sand. By adding perlite, peat moss, and chopped coco coir, you’ll have the perfect combo. The potting mix should be deep enough for the root ball to sit at the same level as the soil from which it came.
An Alocasia plant has fine roots that are prone to tangling. To avoid this, make sure that the pot the seedling is growing in has enough drainage holes. This will make sure that the water seeps out instead of pooling at the bottom. This speaks to our point above where we highlight the importance of not giving them too much water, which will cause root rot. Also, make sure that the soil has a high amount of nitrogen.
A thorough (but accurate) watering, fertilizing, and mulching regimen will ensure the best growth.
Difficulties in keeping them alive
So, we’ve covered the importance of getting the balance of light, water, and fertilizer right. What else is there to look out for?
There are a few other things to consider to make sure you can keep enjoying your plant for as long as possible. Here are a few tips to help you along.
Temperature and Water
- When it comes to the temperature in which the Alocasia Dragon Scale needs to be kept, aim for an environment of 55°F (13°C) to 80°F (27°C). If it gets cold, you’ll find that it will go into dormancy which is not good.
- This unique plant does tend to do its own thing sometimes, so make sure you keep a close eye on it. If it appears to have gone dormant, move it to an area of more light and ease back on the watering.
- The right amount of humidity is also important. The Alocasia Dragon Scale grows best in humidity of 60% to 80%. If your plant starts to get brown tips, it’s most likely the low humidity that’s the problem.
- Make sure you prune it, but not too much. Remove any damaged or dead foliage and make sure they don’t fall into the pot as they may attract pests and disease. You should use sterile tools to reduce the risk of any infection when pruning (rubbing alcohol will do the trick).
- They are sensitive plants, so don’t repot them unless it’s really necessary.
Flowering and pest control
- While you might not notice this, they produce small purple splathes (a leaflike bract). To help the plant conserve energy, you should at times snip the flowers.
- Keep an eye out for any pests who decide to make your plant their home. They often attract mealy bugs, spider mites, aphids, and other pests. The one you need to watch out for most is the spider mite as they can be persistent once they’ve settled in.
- If your Alocasia Dragon Scale starts to lose leaves, and you’ve already checked the watering and fertilizing, it could be because you’ve moved it. They struggle to acclimatize, so keep them in the same place once you’ve introduced them into your home.
Fun to take care of and great to look at
The Alocasia Dragon Scale truly is a spectacular plant that will enhance the interior of any apartment. If you are looking for a unique plant that doesn’t need excessive maintenance and looks impressive, then this is a great option for you.
They can be pricey, but the investment is certainly worth it. This unique plant is an attention grabber and sure to start some fun conversations.