Alocasia reginae aka Silver Velvet Alocasia

Alocasia reginae is a moderately challenging houseplant that requires attention to its specific needs. It thrives in high humidity (60-70%), consistent moisture without overwatering, and bright indirect light. The plant is sensitive to both drought and overwatering, and may go dormant during winter months with reduced watering needs. It's best suited for intermediate to experienced plant keepers who can monitor humidity levels and watering schedules closely.

Alocasia reginae is a compact species that typically reaches 20-30 cm (8-12 inches) in height at maturity. The leaves measure 13-25 cm long with a broadly ovato-sagittate shape, featuring thick, leathery texture and the distinctive silver-blue-green metallic sheen. This species grows at a moderate pace and typically maintains only 2-4 leaves at a time—it's normal for an older leaf to die back as a new one emerges.

Alocasia reginae propagates through division or corm propagation—stem cuttings will not work as leaves grow from the central rhizome without nodes. For division, remove the plant from its pot during spring or summer, gently separate clumps ensuring each has roots, and replant in fresh soil. For corm propagation, look for small brown bulb-like structures among the roots, remove the outer shell to reveal the creamy white interior, and place in moist sphagnum moss in a humid environment. Corms typically sprout in 3-4 weeks and produce leaves within 1-4 months.

Alocasia reginae thrives in warm temperatures typical of its tropical Bornean origin. The ideal temperature range is 18-31°C (65-88°F) during the day. Minimum temperature should not drop below 7°C (45°F), as cold exposure can cause leaf damage and dormancy. Keep the plant away from cold drafts, air conditioning vents, and heating sources. Consistent warmth year-round promotes healthy growth and prevents stress-induced leaf drop.

Several cultivars of Alocasia reginae have been developed, including 'Miri' (also sold as 'Elaine'), which features particularly striking silver-blue foliage. Variegated forms are also available with white, yellow, or yellow-mottled patterns on the leaves. The species has been used in hybridization, producing offspring such as 'Bachii', 'Licosta', 'Rodigasiana', 'Royal Sarawak', and 'Tyaga'. Some sellers also offer regional variants labeled by collection location, such as 'Sp. Borneo'.

Alocasia reginae can produce flowers, though blooming indoors is uncommon. The inflorescences appear in solitary pairs and feature the typical aroid spathe-and-spadix structure. The spathe measures 5-7 cm long, is white with purple spotting, and constricted about 1.5-2 cm from the base. The spadix is approximately 5 cm long. While the flowers are interesting, they are less ornamental than the stunning foliage, and many growers remove blooms to redirect energy to leaf production.

Repot Alocasia reginae every 1-2 years in spring when the plant becomes rootbound or outgrows its container. Choose a pot only 1-2 inches larger than the current one—these plants prefer being slightly snug. Use a well-draining aroid mix with perlite, orchid bark, and coco coir. When repotting, check for baby corms among the roots which can be propagated separately. Handle the rhizome gently as damage can stress the plant.

Clean Alocasia reginae leaves regularly to remove dust that can block light absorption and harbor pests. Gently wipe leaves with a damp, soft cloth or use a lukewarm shower to rinse both sides of the leaves. The thick, leathery texture of the leaves makes them relatively easy to clean. Avoid leaf shine products as they can clog stomata. Always wear gloves when handling, as the plant's sap contains calcium oxalate crystals that can irritate skin.

Alocasia reginae requires minimal pruning. Remove yellowing or dying leaves by cutting them at the base of the petiole with clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. It's normal for older leaves to yellow and die back as new leaves emerge—this is part of the plant's natural cycle. Remove any flower stalks if you prefer to redirect energy to foliage growth. Always sterilize your cutting tools to prevent disease transmission.

Alocasia reginae can grow outdoors only in USDA zones 10-11 where temperatures remain above 7°C (45°F) year-round. In tropical and subtropical climates, plant it in a shaded location with dappled light, as direct sun will scorch the leaves. In its native Borneo habitat, it grows on the rainforest floor at 40-270 meters elevation on well-draining alluvial soil. In temperate climates, it can be moved outdoors during warm summer months but must be brought inside before temperatures drop.

Yellow leaves on Alocasia reginae commonly indicate overwatering, which causes root stress and oxygen deprivation. Other causes include underwatering (check if soil is bone dry), insufficient light, temperature stress from cold drafts, or natural aging (older leaves yellow as new ones emerge). To diagnose, check the soil moisture, ensure proper drainage, verify light levels, and inspect roots for rot. Rapidly yellowing leaves combined with mushy stems suggest overwatering and potential root rot.

Brown leaf tips and edges on Alocasia reginae typically indicate low humidity—this species requires 60-70% humidity to thrive. Brown spots may indicate sunburn from direct light exposure, or fungal leaf spot disease. Crispy brown areas can result from underwatering or mineral buildup from tap water. To address: increase humidity with a humidifier or pebble tray, move away from direct sunlight, use filtered or distilled water, and ensure consistent watering.

Drooping leaves on Alocasia reginae can indicate underwatering, overwatering, or temperature stress. If the soil is dry and the pot feels light, the plant needs water—give it a thorough soaking and it should recover within hours. If soil is wet and the plant droops, check for root rot caused by overwatering. Cold drafts or sudden temperature drops can also cause wilting. During winter dormancy, some drooping is normal as the plant slows growth.

Alocasia reginae naturally maintains only 2-4 leaves at a time, and it's normal for an older leaf to die back as a new one emerges. However, excessive leaf drop indicates stress from overwatering, underwatering, low humidity, insufficient light, or cold temperatures. During winter, the plant may enter dormancy and lose most or all leaves—reduce watering and keep the rhizome barely moist until spring growth resumes. Sudden environmental changes can also trigger leaf drop.

Slow growth in Alocasia reginae is often caused by insufficient light—move it closer to a bright window with indirect light. Low humidity below 50% also stunts growth. During winter, growth naturally slows or stops as the plant enters dormancy. Other factors include being rootbound (repot in spring), nutrient deficiency (fertilize during growing season), or temperatures below 18°C (65°F). Ensure all care conditions are optimal before expecting vigorous growth.

Alocasia reginae is particularly susceptible to spider mites, which thrive in dry conditions—watch for fine webs and stippled yellowing leaves. Other common pests include mealybugs (white cottony masses), scale insects (small brown bumps), aphids, and thrips. Treat with insecticidal soap, neem oil, or by wiping leaves clean. The most common disease is root rot from overwatering; prevent by ensuring excellent drainage. Fungal leaf spot can occur in overly humid conditions with poor air circulation. Quarantine new plants to prevent pest introduction.

Silver Velvet Alocasia’s native range is tropical and subtropical Asia and Eastern Australia.

Silver Velvet Alocasia should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Silver Velvet Alocasia loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

To ensure optimal growth, the Silver Velvet Alocasia prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

The Silver Velvet Alocasia does not necessitate supplementary humidity. Plants primarily absorb water through their roots, rather than their leaves. Hence, the most effective way to supply humidity to your plants is by watering the soil.

The Silver Velvet Alocasia should be transferred to a new pot once it has increased in size two-fold, or on an annual basis, whichever occurs earlier. Replacing the soil with fresh potting soil containing all the necessary nutrients, is sufficient enough to support the growth of the plant, thus avoiding the need to use fertilizer. It's important to note that plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.

Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.

During the cold period, it is common for Silver Velvet Alocasia to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.