The Alocasia baginda ‘Dragon Scale’ is a beautiful and rare sight. Native to Southeast Asia and Malaysia, this unique plant is of the Alocasia family and is known for its impressive foliage and one-of-a-kind, scale-like pattern. Its majesty surpasses that of many and offers unparalleled colour, texture and beauty to any room or outdoor space.
Hailing from a region rich in culture and diverse foliage, the Alocasia baginda’s natural habitat is within dense tropical rainforests and warm, moist climates. Its leaves are large, oval, and heavily ribbed, giving the dragon scale appearance. This one-of-a-kind evergreen perennial produces large white and yellow flowers and thrives in light and water.
Tips on nurturing your Alocasia baginda ‘Dragon Scale’
Light
This plant adores light but not intense direct sunlight, or it can become stressed. It prefers dappled or bright indirect light indoors, making it the perfect addition to your living room or conservatory.
Temperature
This tropical beauty loves the heat, so anything from 20°C-28°C (68°F-82°F) is perfect. Avoid excessively cold temperatures, as this can cause damage to the foliage.
Soil Type and Drainage
A well-draining, acid-rich potting mix is ideal. Make sure the pot has drainage holes at the bottom.
Humidity
To replicate its native environment in the jungle, ensure your plant is kept in a humid area, if possible. Mist the leaves with a spray bottle, or use a humidifier at home.
Watering
Water your Alocasia baginda ‘Dragon Scale’ when the topsoil is slightly dry, about once every 7-14 days.
Toxicity
It’s important to note that the Alocasia baginda ‘Dragon Scale’ is considered toxic to humans and animals if ingested, so be sure to keep it out of reach from pets and children.
Fertiliser
To keep your Alocasia baginda ‘Dragon Scale’ healthy and full of life, feed it with an acid-based fertiliser during the active growing season ( Spring to Autumn).
Troubleshooting Pests, Diseases and Common Problems
Pests and diseases may affect the growth of this plant, but with proactive plant care and preventative measures, you can ensure it stays healthy. Common problems may include mealybugs, aphids and spider mites. Minor diseases may be addressed with a fungicide spray. If browning of the leaves occurs, this can indicate too much sunlight or insufficient moisture in the soil – adjust accordingly. If you need to repot, choose a pot a size larger than the current one. Only repot when the roots start extending beyond the drainage holes.
Propagation
To propagate the Alocasia baginda ‘Dragon Scale’, use the stem cutting method. Place a stem cutting in a pot and water it every day. In no time, it will take root, and you will have a new plant.
Final Thoughts
This strikingly beautiful plant, with its unique foliage and mesmerising scale-like pattern, truly stands out. The Alocasia baginda ‘Dragon Scale’ is the perfect addition for anyone wishing to bring a tropical vibe to their home. Its low maintenance requirements mean that no matter your level of expertise, you can keep it alive and thriving.
