Alocasia amazonica
Alocasia amazonica
African Mask Plant
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Description
Alocasia amazonica, often called the African Mask plant, is a compact aroid prized for its dramatic dark green leaves with bold white veins and arrowhead shape. It thrives in warm, humid homes with bright, indirect light and rewards good care with lush, sculptural foliage.
Common Names
African Mask PlantAmazon Elephant EarAlocasia ‘Polly’ (related cultivar)
Context
nativeRegion
Horticultural hybrid; parent species originate from Southeast Asia (notably the Philippines and Borneo).
usdaZones
10–12 (outdoors); commonly grown indoors in cooler regions.
companionPlants
Calathea (Goeppertia), Maranta (Prayer Plant), Fittonia, Maidenhair or Boston Ferns, Philodendron, Monstera adansonii
culturalUses
Popular ornamental houseplant and focal specimen in tropical-themed interiors and container displays.
Care
Care Requirements
LightBright, indirect light; a few hours of soft morning sun is fine. Avoid harsh midday sun to prevent leaf scorch.
WateringKeep evenly moist but never soggy. Let the top 1–2 inches of mix dry between waterings. Use tepid, low-mineral water if possible.
SoilAiry aroid mix: potting soil or coco coir with orchid bark and perlite/pumice (roughly 40/30/30). Slightly acidic to neutral pH.
FertilizerHalf-strength, balanced liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks in spring–summer; pause in fall–winter.
HumidityHigh humidity preferred (60–80%). Minimum ~50%. Use a humidifier or pebble tray and ensure gentle airflow.
TemperatureWarm and stable: 65–85°F (18–29°C). Avoid drafts and temps below 60°F (15°C).
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitClumping, upright foliage from rhizomes/corms with sculptural, arrow-shaped leaves.
Mature SizeIndoors typically 1–2 ft tall and wide (30–60 cm); larger in ideal greenhouse/outdoor tropical conditions.
Growth RateModerate indoors; faster in warm, bright, humid environments.
BloomingOccasional spathe-and-spadix blooms; uncommon indoors and usually grown for foliage.
DormancyCan become semi-dormant in winter or under stress, shedding leaves while the rhizome rests; resumes growth in warmth and higher light.
Propagation
MethodsDivision of clumps/offsets, Rhizome/corm separation, Tissue culture (commercial)
DifficultyModerate
Best SeasonSpring to early summer during active growth
Maintenance & Notes
PruningRemove yellowing or damaged leaves at the base with sterile shears; wipe leaves to reduce dust and pests.
RepottingRepot every 1–2 years in spring when rootbound; use a slightly snug pot with fresh airy mix and minimal root disturbance.
Pests & DiseasesProne to spider mites, thrips, and mealybugs; manage with inspections and gentle treatments. Overwatering leads to root rot; low humidity can crisp edges. Occasional leaf spot if airflow is poor.
ToxicityToxic if ingested (insoluble calcium oxalate). Can irritate skin and mouth; keep away from pets and children.
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