Alocasia baginda
Alocasia baginda
Dragon Scale Alocasia
◆
Description
Alocasia baginda, often sold as “Dragon Scale,” is a striking Borneo aroid prized for its thick, sculpted leaves that look like armor. It prefers bright, indirect light, steady warmth, and high humidity, rewarding good care with dramatic, silver-green foliage and deep veining.
Common Names
Dragon Scale AlocasiaAlocasia Dragon ScaleBaginda Alocasia
Context
nativeRegion
Borneo (Indonesia/Malaysia), tropical rainforest understory.
usdaZones
10–11 (outdoors in frost-free, humid climates); commonly grown indoors elsewhere.
companionPlants
Anthurium clarinervium, Philodendron hederaceum, Monstera adansonii, Calathea (Goeppertia) spp., Ferns (Nephrolepis, Asplenium)
culturalUses
Primarily ornamental; valued by collectors for architectural foliage and used as a statement houseplant in interior design.
Care
Care Requirements
LightBright, indirect light; protect from direct sun which can scorch leaves. Tolerates medium light but grows slower.
WateringKeep evenly moist; let the top 2–3 cm (1 in) of mix dry before watering. Avoid soggy soil. Reduce slightly in winter.
SoilAiry aroid mix: chunky peat-free base with bark, perlite/pumice, and a bit of compost; pH slightly acidic to neutral.
FertilizerDuring spring–summer, feed every 4–6 weeks at 1/4–1/2 strength with a balanced fertilizer; pause or reduce in winter.
HumidityHigh humidity (60–80%) preferred; use a humidifier or pebble tray and ensure gentle air movement to prevent leaf issues.
TemperatureWarmth-loving: 18–29°C (65–85°F). Avoid drafts and temps below ~15°C (59°F).
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitEvergreen, clumping aroid from corms/rhizomes; upright rosette of textured leaves.
Mature SizeIndoors typically 30–60 cm tall and wide (12–24 in); individual leaves up to ~20–30 cm (8–12 in).
Growth RateModerate with warmth, humidity, and bright light; slower in low light or cool temps.
BloomingOccasional spathe and spadix inflorescences; not showy; flowering is uncommon indoors.
DormancyMay semi-dormant in cool, low-light, or dry conditions; growth slows and older leaves may drop in winter.
Propagation
MethodsDivision of clumps/rhizomes, Separation of corms/pups, Tissue culture (commercial)
DifficultyModerate
Best SeasonSpring to early summer when plant is actively growing.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningRemove yellowing or damaged leaves at the base with sterile shears. No heavy pruning needed.
RepottingRepot every 1–2 years in spring when roots fill the pot; prefers slightly snug pots with excellent drainage.
Pests & DiseasesWatch for spider mites, thrips, mealybugs; treat early. Overwatering can cause root rot; ensure airflow to prevent leaf spot.
ToxicityToxic if ingested (insoluble calcium oxalate). Can irritate skin/mouth of pets and people; handle with care.
Recent Public Plants
No public plants yet.