Alocasia baginda Kurniawan & P.C.Boyce

• Genus: Alocasia
• Botanical Background: Described in 2011 by Kurniawan & Boyce following studies of Borneo’s aroid flora. The epithet baginda derives from Malay for “royal,” reflecting the species’ majestic foliage.

• Geographical Range: Native to the humid lowland rainforests of eastern Kalimantan on Borneo.
• Environment: Thrives under a closed canopy with bright, filtered light, warm temperatures (22–30 °C), high humidity (>70 %), and well‑draining, humus‑rich soil.

Leaves

• Heart‑ to arrowhead‑shaped blades
• Exceptionally thick and coriaceous
• Adaxial surface light to silvery green with dark veins
• Abaxial surface often tinged purple‑red

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

• Typical aroid bloom with pale green spathe, spadix cream‑white
• Spathe constriction occurs mid‑way along the staminate zone, aiding insect pollination

Growth Habit

• Terrestrial, tuberous perennial arising from a corm
• Forms a single upright shoot with each growth cycle

Light Requirements

• Bright, indirect light
• Avoid direct sun which may scorch leaves

Watering & Humidity

• Keep soil evenly moist but never waterlogged
• Allow top 2 cm to dry between waterings.
• Maintain humidity at 60–80 %

Soil & Potting Mix

• Use a chunky, well‑draining mix (e.g., coco coir or peat with perlite and orchid bark) in a pot with drainage holes

Temperature & Fertilizer

• Ideal range 13–27 °C (55–80 °F)
• Feed biweekly with a balanced liquid fertilizer during active growth (spring–summer

Division and Cuttings

• Most reliable via division of corms or rhizomes at the dormant season; ensure each segment has at least one growing point

Seeds

• Uncommon in cultivation; fresh seeds germinate in 2–4 weeks under warm (21–29 °C) and high‑humidity conditions

Typical Issues

• Spider mites, thrips, mealybugs, and scale
• Root rot from waterlogged soil

Treatment Recommendations

• Wipe leaves with mild soapy water; apply insecticidal soap or cold‑pressed neem oil spray
• Use targeted miticides or systemic insecticides if infestations persist; always follow label instructions and test on a small area first

• Highly variable species producing cultivars named for dragon‑scale leaf texture
• Leaves store water and nutrients in thick tissues, aiding survival during brief dry spell

• Prized for its sculptural, bullate foliage and rarity, often used as a focal point in terrariums or tropical‑style interiors

Wild Population Status

• Not formally assessed by IUCN; habitat loss in Borneo’s rainforests may pose future risks

Market Availability

• Unimproved species rare in trade; more commonly encountered as cultivars ‘Dragon Scale’, ‘Green Dragon’, and ‘Silver Dragon’