The perennial plant is almost cinematic-looking.
Plus, it is a relatively compact plant which makes it perfect for small spaces.
The plant is toxic to humans and pets.
The Spruce / Cori Sears
It is considered less finicky than some of its relatives but is still picky compared to other houseplants.
Avoid exposure to direct sunlight as it is susceptible to leaf burn.
Ensure that you rotate your plant regularly to keep the growth even on all sides.
The Spruce / Cori Sears
Soil
Dragon scale alocasias need a chunky, well-draining potting mix.
Water
Dragon scale alocasia requires regular watering and soil should not be allowed to dry out.
That being said, it is more tolerant of missing the occasional watering than someother varieties of alocasia.
The Spruce / Cori Sears
Allow the top 1 to 2 inches of soil to dry out between waterings and then water thoroughly.
If you are growing your dragon scale alocasia in a soilless potting mix it is best tobottom-water the plant.
Let the excess water drain from the pot before returning it to its original location.
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It does well interrariumsor mini-greenhouses, or with a small humidifier placed nearby.
They do well in typical indoor temperatures from 55 to 80F.
Be aware that consistent exposure to low temperatures may cause the plant to enter dormancy.
Fertilizer
Alocasias are considered heavy feeders and the dragon scale is no exception.
These aroids grow naturally on limestone outcrops in Borneo and grow best in calcium-rich,slightly alkaline conditions.
Pruning
Maintaining the leaves of dragon scale alocasia is very low-maintenance.
Simply prune and remove dead leaves and plant material that may bring disease and pests.
Propagating Alocasia Dragon Scale
Alocasia dragon scale is propagated by division andgrowing corms.
To propagate by division you will need a mature plant that has developed new smaller plants or pups.
To propagate the dragon scale alocasia by growing corms, do these things.
After your dragon scale has been repotted, water it thoroughly to help it settle into its new pot.
Regularly inspect your plant for signs of pests and apply an insecticide at the first signs of an infestation.
It is also susceptible to root rot, which is usually the result of improper watering and/or drainage.
Examine your plants growing conditions to determine what may be lacking.
This doesnt always happen indoors, but it is possible.
If your plant enters dormancy, dont panic.
Just cut back on watering and wait it out.
In the early spring, you should begin to see signs of new growth.
Yellow Leaves
Yellow leaveson a dragon scale alocasia often mean that your plant is being overwatered.
Occasionally, its an indication of root rot.
Ensure that you are not underwatering your plant, and increase the humidity around your alocasia if possible.
Alocasia’Dragon Scale' may be difficult to find and is generally considered rare.
The plant is occasionally sold by nurseries and garden centers, but can also bepurchased onlineor from plant collectors.
The plant goes dormant in the fall and winter when days are shorter and temperatures remain consistently below 55F.
It stops growing or dies back and starts regrowing when temperatures get warmer.
North Carolina State University Cooperative Extension.
