Alocasia clypeolata has rounded, shield-shaped leaves in a pale apple green, crossed by strongly contrasting dark green veins. The colour is unusual for the genus, which mostly runs dark.
It is one of the easier collectable Alocasia, sitting between the tough species like wentii and the difficult jewels.
Light
Alocasia clypeolata grows best in bright, indirect light.
Too much light
The pale leaf surface bleaches faster than a dark-leaved Alocasia would, and it shows clearly.
Too little light
Stems stretch and the vein contrast weakens.
Watering
Water when the top 3-4cm (1-1.5 inches) of soil is dry.
On average:
- Spring & summer: twice a week
- Autumn & winter: once every 1-2 weeks
Signs of overwatering
- Leaves droop while the soil is wet
- Stems soften at the base
- Roots brown and mushy
Signs of underwatering
- Leaves droop and stems bend
- Leaf edges go crisp
Humidity and temperature
Humidity of 60% or above. Keep it between 18°C and 28°C (65-82°F).
Soil and repotting
Soil
A free-draining aroid mix of bark, perlite and coco coir.
Repotting
Every second spring, going up one size.
Feeding
Half-strength balanced fertiliser every 3 weeks through spring and summer. Nothing in autumn and winter.
Pruning and grooming
Remove fully yellowed leaves at the base. Wipe the leaves occasionally with a damp cloth.
Dormancy
It goes dormant in cold or low light like the rest of the genus. Keep barely damp and warm.
Common problems
Bleached, washed-out leaves
Too much light. The pale surface shows it sooner than most Alocasia.
Weak vein contrast
Not enough light.
Crispy edges
Humidity too low.
Spider mites
Check the undersides regularly.