Colocasia ‘Pharaoh’s Mask’ – The Living Sculpture

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Colocasia ‘Pharaoh’s Mask’ is one of the most sculptural and dramatic elephant ear varieties available. Its dark green to nearly black leaves have raised, almost armoured-looking purple-black veins that create a striking three-dimensional effect. The leaves curve slightly inward along those veins, giving the plant a bold, shield-like appearance. The stems are equally impressive, with deep purple tones that complement the leaf veins perfectly.

Origin

Like other Colocasias, Pharoah’s Mask originates from tropical regions of Southeast Asia. It thrives in humid, warm environments with consistent moisture and filtered light. In nature, it often grows near water sources, such as along riverbanks or wetlands, where the soil never completely dries out.

Care

Pharaoh’s Mask loves moisture and warmth. Keep the soil evenly damp at all times but avoid waterlogging the roots. It can be treated like a houseplant, watered deeply once or twice a week depending on the climate, or grown near a water source outdoors. Using a shallow tray with water and pebbles beneath the pot helps maintain humidity and consistent moisture.

It prefers bright, indirect light. It can handle gentle morning or late afternoon sun, but harsh midday sun may scorch the leaves. Indoors, place it near a bright window with filtered light.

Repotting is recommended every one to two years, ideally in spring, using a rich, moisture-retaining soil mix of cocopeat, compost, and perlite. This ensures good drainage while keeping the roots hydrated.

Fertilize every 2–3 weeks during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer or a nitrogen-rich mix to encourage lush leaf growth. Reduce feeding during the winter months when the plant slows down.

Keep the plant in warm temperatures (18–28°C) and high humidity. If kept indoors, occasional misting or a humidity tray will help. In cooler months, growth may slow, and slightly reduced watering is fine.

Pet and Reptile Safety

Colocasia Pharoah’s Mask is not pet safe. It contains calcium oxalate crystals that can irritate the mouth and digestive system if ingested. While it is sometimes used in reptile enclosures for humidity and coverage, it should be kept out of reach of animals that may chew the leaves.

Indoor or Outdoor Use

This plant can thrive both indoors and outdoors. Indoors, it is a dramatic statement plant that adds a tropical feel. Outdoors, it does best in partial shade, near water features, or in moist garden beds. It prefers constant moisture but does not need to live in permanent water.

Summary Care

• Soil: Moist, rich, well-draining

• Water: Keep evenly damp, water deeply 1–2 times a week

• Light: Bright indirect light, limited morning/late sun

• Temperature: 18–28°C

• Humidity: High

• Fertilizer: Every 2–3 weeks in growing season