Green Shield (Schismatoglottis wallichii)

Green Shield Plant Features

Schismatoglottis wallichii (also called Green Shield), is a stunning tropical plant native to areas of Southeast
Asia. The medium to large leaves are arrow- or shield-shaped and sport a silvery-green chevron marking. This gives it a bold look that makes it stand out, so you can enjoy it as a focal point or to accent other plants in your collection. 

When it's young, Schismatoglottis makes for an elegant tabletop plant. As it grows and matures, it can reach 3 feet tall with leaves that can be 18 inches long. It's an excellent partner for plants like Peace Lily and Money Tree. 

Buy Green Shield Schismatoglottis
Buy it online and have it shipped fresh from our farm, direct to your door from our online plant shop. Look for Costa Farms' Green Shield Schismatoglottis in the Trending Tropicals® collection at your favorite retailer. See a list of our in-store and online retailer partners. Buy now

Green Shield Growing Instructions

Green Shield Schismatoglottis Light Needs
This variegated houseplant likes medium to bright indirect light. It may hold up to low light, but it won't grow as lush, large, or as fast. This houseplant does equally well under natural light as artificial light. As is the case with many houseplants from tropical rainforests, avoid exposing it to direct afternoon sun, especially in Southern regions or hot-summer places. Direct sunlight can leave ugly sunburn on the leaves, which looks like bleached patches on the foliage.

Green Shield Schismatoglottis Water Needs
You may find Green Shield Schismatoglottis is a little thirstier than your average houseplant. When it starts to get dry, it will wilt, but like Peace Lily, to which it's closely related, it will recover quickly when watered again. If it dries out too much in between waterings, the leaves may bounce back, but with yellow or brown edges. 
Its tendency to wilt can be a useful trait for houseplant beginners because it tells you when it's thirsty --- and this can be a great reminder to check on your other plants. 

Green Shield Schismatoglottis Humidity Needs
As you might guess from a plant native to tropical rainforests, Green Shield Schismatoglottis prefers average to above-average relative humidity levels. Help keep its foliage looking its best in dry indoor air by growing it in a group with other houseplants, growing it in a display case, or placing it in a room with a humidifier. 
Keep it away from drafts, as well. Exposure to air that's significantly warmer or colder than the ambient temperature may cause its leaves to go yellow. Avoid placing your Green Shield Schismatoglottis near heating or air-conditioning vents, drafty doors/windows, or other similar locations. 

Fertilizing Green Shield Schismatoglottis
This variegated houseplant does not require regular feedings to remain healthy You may fertilize it in the spring or summer if you like. Use a fertilizer designed specifically for houseplants or container plants. Follow the advice on the product container, and never use more fertilizer (in terms of quantity or frequency) than the product's label recommends.

Pruning Green Shield Schismatoglottis 
You should find this plant doesn't require any special pruning except to cut off any leaves as they yellow from old age. 

Note: This plant may have some natural degree of toxicity and may cause discomfort or illness if ingested. Additionally, exposure to the sap of this plant may cause discomfort to individuals with a sensitivity to it upon contact. Grown for ornamental purposes and not intended for human or animal consumption.

  • Water

    Constantly moist soil

    Medium water needs

  • Light

    Indoors: High light

    Indoors: Medium light

  • Colors

    Variegated

  • Special Features

    Purifies the air

Complement your Green Shield

Geo
Contrast the silvery markings on this plant with the rich, purple-black foliage of Geo.

Silver Dragon Alocasia
Play up the silver look by pairing this aroid with its cousin, Silver Dragon Alocasia.

Jet Diamond Peace Lily
Jet Diamond Peace Lily sports variegated foliage that looks great with Schismatoglottis Green Shield.