Colocasia Pharaohs Mask
Colocasia Pharaoh's Mask is a unique and striking variety of the Colocasia genus, renowned for its large, dramatic foliage. Colocasia plants are often referred to as "elephant ears" due to the shape and size of their leaves.
Appearance
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Leaves: The most distinctive feature of Colocasia Pharaoh's Mask is its large, heart-shaped dark green leaves with prominent, deep purple to black veins that create a dramatic contrast. With good care and a suitable location, these leaves can reach up to 1 meter in diameter. The leaves have a thick, leathery texture and can grow quite large, often reaching over 30 cm in length.
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Stems: The stems (petioles) of this plant are also dark, complementing the color of the veins and adding to its overall bold appearance.
Growth Habit
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Size: Colocasia Pharaoh's Mask can grow to be quite large, with leaves that can reach up to 1 meter in length. The plant itself can grow to a height of 1-1.5 meters under optimal conditions.
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Habit: This plant has a clumping habit, with new leaves continuously emerging from the center of the plant.
Care Requirements
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Light: Colocasia Pharaoh's Mask prefers partial shade to full sun. In hotter climates, it benefits from some afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorching.
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Watering: This plant thrives in moist to wet conditions. It can tolerate standing water, making it an excellent choice for water gardens or areas with poor drainage. Consistent moisture is key, but ensure the soil is well-draining to prevent root rot.
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Humidity: High humidity levels are preferred, which makes it suitable for tropical and subtropical climates. In drier environments, increasing humidity around the plant can help it thrive. Indoors, you can shower the leaves regularly with lukewarm water to maintain humidity.
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Soil: Rich, organic soil that retains moisture but drains well is ideal. Adding compost or organic matter to the soil can enhance its growth.
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Temperature: Colocasia Pharaoh's Mask is not frost-tolerant and requires warm temperatures to thrive, ideally between 15-29°C. It should be brought indoors or protected during cold weather in non-tropical regions.
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Fertilization: Grown without fertilizer, this plant is robust and top healthy (100% organic quality before quantity!). Regular fertilization during the growing season can promote vigorous growth if needed. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 2-4 weeks.
Additional Characteristics
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Propagation: Colocasia Pharaoh's Mask can be propagated through division. When the plant is large enough, you can divide the tubers and replant them. These plants are from my own propagation, cultivated from my organically grown mother plants (as per picture, not for sale), ensuring very high quality.
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Uses: This plant is excellent for adding a tropical feel to gardens, landscapes, and water features. It also makes a striking solitary plant for rooms, terraces, or conservatories.
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Origins: Native to Central Asia and India, Colocasia Pharaoh's Mask can be grown as a container plant in the garden from May to October, preferring a sunny to semi-shady location.
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Hardiness: Neither the plant nor the tuber is hardy, so it needs protection from frost.
Colocasia Pharaoh's Mask is a visually stunning plant that can add a dramatic, tropical element to any garden or landscape with its bold foliage and unique coloration. Enjoy the beauty and high quality of this organically grown plant from my own collection!