15 - 20cm Variegated Alocasia Dragon Scale House Plant 10.5cm Pot

🐉 Alocasia baginda ‘Dragon Scale’ Variegata — Variegated Dragon Scale

Alocasia baginda ‘Dragon Scale’ Variegata, commonly known as the Variegated Dragon Scale, is a rare and breathtaking tropical plant prized for its sculptural foliage and intricate colouration. A naturally compact variety of Alocasia baginda, this variegated form boasts the same heavily textured, scale-like leaves as the standard Dragon Scale — but with added marbling and streaks of cream, white, mint, and pale green across its dark emerald foliage. The dramatic contrast between the variegation and the plant's signature silvery-green, quilted leaf surface gives it a truly mythical appearance, living up to its name. Native to the humid rainforests of Borneo, Dragon Scale Variegata thrives in bright, filtered light, high humidity, and warm, stable temperatures. This slow-growing cultivar is best suited for collectors or as a luxurious statement plant in an indoor jungle.

☀️ Light Requirements

• Indoors: Thrives in bright, indirect light. A north- or east-facing window is ideal.

• Too much sun: Avoid direct sunlight, which may burn or bleach the delicate variegation.

• Too little light: Can cause reduced contrast, slower growth, and drooping leaves.

🌡️ Temperature & Humidity

• Ideal temperature: 18–27°C (65–80°F)

• Minimum temperature: Keep above 16°C (60°F); very sensitive to cold draughts.

• Humidity: Requires high humidity (60–80%). Use a humidifier or keep in a terrarium for best results.

💧 Watering Needs

• Watering frequency: Water when the top 2–4 cm of soil is dry. Keep the soil consistently moist, but not wet.

• Tip: Use filtered or rainwater to prevent mineral build-up that can mark the leaves.

• Winter: Reduce watering slightly when the plant is semi-dormant.

🪴 Soil & Repotting

• Soil type: Loose, well-draining aroid mix. Blend houseplant compost with orchid bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss.

• pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (5.5–6.5)

• Repotting: Every 1–2 years, or when rootbound. Handle roots and corms gently when repotting.

🌱 Feeding

• Growing season (spring–summer): Feed every 4–6 weeks with a balanced liquid fertiliser, diluted to half strength.

• Autumn–winter: Pause or reduce feeding during periods of slow growth.

✂️ Pruning & Maintenance

• Pruning: Remove yellowing or damaged leaves at the base with sterile scissors.

• Leaf care: Do not mist directly — instead, use a humidity tray or humidifier to prevent fungal issues on the foliage.

• Airflow: Ensure good ventilation to prevent rot or mildew.

🌾 Propagation

• By corms (bulblets): Alocasia often produces small corms beneath the soil. Separate and pot individually when repotting.

• Note: Variegation may not always pass to offsets — reversion is possible.

🐛 Pests & Problems

• Common pests: Spider mites, thrips, and mealybugs — especially in low humidity or stagnant air.

• Symptoms: Curling leaves, spotting, or sticky residue.

• Treatment: Treat with neem oil, insecticidal soap, and increase humidity and air circulation.

• Common issues:

  • Crisping edges or tips: Typically due to low humidity or inconsistent watering.

  • Leaf loss in winter: A common seasonal dormancy — allow rest and resume care in spring.

🧤 Toxicity & Safety

• Toxicity: Toxic if ingested by pets or humans. Contains calcium oxalate crystals that can irritate the mouth and throat.

• Precaution: Keep out of reach of pets and children.

🏡 Indoor Care Highlights

• A rare, collector-grade tropical perfect for well-lit shelves, greenhouse cabinets, or terrariums.

• An ideal choice for plant enthusiasts who appreciate fine texture and sophisticated foliage.

• Pairs beautifully with other exotic Alocasias, jewel orchids, and moisture-loving ferns.

• A slow but rewarding grower — truly a living gem in any high-end houseplant collection.

• Makes a stunning feature in a minimalist pot to let the variegation and texture shine.