Alocasia ‘Regal Shields’
 
Common Names Regal Shields Alocasia, Elephant Ear Regal
 
Zones 9B–11
 
Alocasia ‘Regal Shields’ is a hybrid cultivar celebrated for its dramatic foliage and commanding presence. This cross between Alocasia odora and Alocasia reginula combines the bold scale of elephant ears with the velvety texture and deep coloration of jewel alocasias. Its shield-shaped leaves are dark green to nearly black with vivid chartreuse veins and rich purple undersides, making it a standout in interiorscapes and tropical gardens alike.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Upright, clumping; fast growth rate
Height: 3–6 ft. tall; 2–5 ft. wide
Trunk: Herbaceous; corm-based growth
Leaves: Broad, shield-shaped; dark green to black with light green veins; purple undersides; 12–24 in. long
Petiole: Thick, green to purplish; sturdy and upright
Inflorescence: Rare indoors; pale spathe with greenish spadix
Fruit: Not typically produced in cultivation
Ecology: Hybrid of A. odora × A. reginula; selected for foliage contrast and architectural form
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Bright indirect light; tolerates partial shade outdoors
Watering: Keep soil evenly moist; allow top inch to dry between waterings
Soil: Rich, well-draining mix; ideal blend includes potting soil, orchid bark, perlite, and peat
Temperature: 65–85°F (18–29°C); protect from frost
Humidity: Moderate to high; misting or humidifiers recommended indoors
Propagation: By division of corms or offsets
Tolerance: Sensitive to cold and overwatering; not drought-tolerant
 
Landscape Use Ideal for interiorscapes, tropical patio containers, and shaded garden beds in frost-free zones. Pairs well with Colocasia ‘Black Magic’, Philodendron ‘Prince of Orange’, and Calathea ‘Maui Queen’ for bold foliage contrast and layered texture.