My African Mask Plant sits on a long table in my dining room along with eight or nine other plants. I must say, with its magnificent foliage, it steals the show. It’s a stunning indoor plant. However, many gardeners struggle to grow it. These African Mask Plant care tips will help you out.
It’s tricky to grow indoors and if it’s not happy, it’ll go downhill fast. The three key points of keeping this plant looking good are exposure, watering, and an above-humidity requirement.
I live in the Sonoran Desert in Arizona which is very dry (average humidity of 29%). Despite a few brown tips, mine is doing just fine although it’s certainly not the most robust of my houseplants!
This plant shares the same family (Araceae) as many other popular houseplants: anthuriums, pothos, monsteras, philodendrons, aglaonemas, peace lilies, arrowhead plants, and zz plants. I always find this interesting as plants in the same family share similar characteristics. I guess that’s the plant geek in me.
I bought this plant labeled as African Mask Plant. The genus and species are most likely Alocasia amazonica and the cultivar is “Polly”. This is a smaller growing hybrid plant that was developed for the houseplant trade as most of the other Alocasias get large.
You may also see it called “Kris Plant”. Confusing, I know. Regardless of which one I actually have, the care is the same whether it’s been labeled African Mask Plant or Alocasia Polly.
The African mask plant, also known by its scientific name Alocasia amazonica, is an increasingly popular houseplant revered for its unique, showstopping foliage This tropical plant is characterized by its large, arrowhead-shaped green leaves accentuated by prominent white veins
While relatively easy to care for, growing an African mask plant in a pot does require some specific conditions and care to keep it thriving. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about successfully cultivating this stunning plant as a container houseplant
Choosing the Right Pot for Your Plant
Picking the proper pot is an important first step in caring for your African mask plant. Make sure to choose one with drainage holes to prevent soggy soil. A container that is slightly larger than the plant’s root ball provides room for growth.
Terra cotta and ceramic pots allow air to circulate to the roots. Avoid pots that are overly snug as this tropical plant prefers a more airy environment. Match the pot size to the plant’s stature – a juvenile plant will thrive in a 6” pot while a larger, mature plant may need a 12” container.
Providing the Right Potting Mix
African mask plants need a rich, well-draining soil to flourish. A quality potting mix amended with perlite, orchid bark, or horticultural charcoal improves drainage and aeration.
You can also create your own mix using equal parts potting soil, perlite, peat moss or coco coir. Maintain a slightly acidic soil pH between 6.0-6.5. Re-pot annually in fresh soil to replenish nutrients.
Giving Your Plant the Light it Needs
The African mask plant grows best in bright, indirect sunlight. Place it near an east or west-facing window where it will receive consistent ambient sunlight throughout the day.
Avoid direct southern light, which can scorch the leaves. If your home lacks sufficient natural light, supplement with a grow light for 12-14 hours daily. Rotate the plant frequently for even sun exposure.
Watering Based on Your Plant’s Needs
While African mask plants prefer consistently moist soil, both under and over-watering can be detrimental. Allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry out between waterings. The timing will vary based on factors like light, temperature, and humidity.
As a general rule, aim to water your plant once weekly. Water thoroughly until it drains freely from the bottom of the pot and discard any excess from the saucer. Drooping leaves or soil that stays soggy indicate overwatering.
Achieving the Ideal Humidity Levels
Native to tropical forests, the African mask plant thrives in humidity levels between 60-80%. In dry indoor air, use a humidifier to maintain 40-50% humidity near the plant.
Grouping plants together also raises humidity through transpiration. Mist the leaves daily or place the pot on a pebble tray filled with water to maximize moisture.
Fertilizing for Healthy Growth
Feed your African mask plant monthly during spring and summer using a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Slow release pellets also provide nutrients over time.
Suspend fertilizing in fall and winter when growth naturally slows. Flushing the soil every 3-4 months washes away mineral buildup from tap water and fertilizers.
Ensuring Proper Air Circulation
Stagnant, stale air increases the risk of fungal or bacterial disease. Ensure your African mask plant receives adequate air circulation. Put a small fan nearby to keep air moving around the leaves.
When grouping plants, space them 1-2 feet apart to allow air to flow between them. Avoid cramming plants together too densely.
Controlling Pests
Common pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and scale can infest African mask plants. Check the undersides of leaves regularly for signs of insects. Treat infestations early with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.
Quarantine new plants and prune away any affected parts to prevent spreading. Maintaining optimal care conditions also helps prevent pests.
Typical Problems and How to Solve Them
If your African mask plant begins struggling, there are a few likely culprits. Here are some common problems and solutions:
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Brown leaf tips – Usually caused by low humidity. Increase watering frequency and mist leaves.
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Yellowing leaves – Could indicate overwatering. Allow soil to dry out further between waterings.
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Wilting – Typically a sign of underwatering. Water more frequently.
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Leaf drop – Can occur if temperature drops below 60°F. Move plant to warmer area.
With its tropical origins, the African mask plant thrives with high humidity, ample moisture, and bright indirect light when grown as a houseplant. Providing optimal care including a well-draining potting mix, fertilization, and pest control will keep your plant healthy. Pay attention to its needs and make adjustments as required to enjoy this uniquely shaped foliage plant.
African Mask Plant Care
One thing to note about this plant: It goes through a period of dormancy, usually in the fall or winter months. The foliage completely (or almost completely) dies back and then comes back in spring.
It grows from underground stems called rhizomes that spread and produce roots, like iris. It’s the end of February, and mine is in that semi-dormant phase now.
Alocasia African Mask Flowers
It has a green spathe-like flower. As an indoor plant, it doesn’t happen on a regular basis if at all. The foliage is what makes this plant desirable.
This is easy to see – Alocasia Polly has those standout deep green leaves with pronounced veins!
Are you looking for another houseplant with gorgeous foliage? Check out the Pink Aglaonema Lady Valentine.
How to Take Care of Your African Mask Plant
FAQ
How often should I water an African mask plant?
Where should I put my African mask plant?
Do African mask plants like to be misted?
Why are the leaves on my African mask plant turning brown?
Is African mask plant a good houseplant?
African Mask Plant (Alocasia Polly) is a stunning houseplant, but tricky to grow indoors. These African Mask Plant care tips will help!
How do you care for African mask plant?
To properly care for African Mask Plant, it is important to make sure the plant is grown in well-draining soil and is placed in a spot that is exposed to plenty of bright, indirect light. In addition, it is important to keep the soil moist (not soggy) at all times. Do not let this plant completely dry out between watering sessions.
Are African mask plants heavy feeders?
The African mask plant can be an especially heavy feeder during the spring and summer, but over-fertilizing it can cause its foliage to burn. Soil: The soil for the African mask plant should be well-draining and well-aerated. A loose combination of potting mix, perlite, and peat (or a peat alternative) should keep your African mask plant happy.
What is the best potting mix for African mask plant?
The best potting mix for African Mask Plant consists of one part potting soil, one part perlite, and one part peat. Adding some pine bark and compost to that soil mix will promote healthy plant growth. If you do not like to mix your own soil, purchase a potting soil that works well for tropical plants or bromeliads.