The African mask plant, also known as Alocasia, is a popular and striking houseplant known for its uniquely shaped, large leaves With its exotic look, it’s no wonder more and more plant parents want to add this tropical plant to their home But where is the best place to buy an African mask plant?
I’ve done quite a bit of research to find the most reputable and affordable sources for these statement-making plants. In this article, I’ll share my top recommendations on where to buy an African mask plant, as well as provide some care tips to help your new plant thrive.
Overview of the African Mask Plant
Before diving into where to buy, let’s take a quick look at what makes the African mask plant so special.
Some key facts:
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Botanical name There are around 75 species in the Alocasia genus including popular varieties like Alocasia zebrina (also called Alocasia ‘Polly’), Alocasia amazonica Alocasia macrorrhiza, and Alocasia ‘Stingray.’
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Native to: Subtropical areas of Asia and Australia.
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Plant type: Perennial.
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Features: Large, upright leaves in a variety of shapes like heart-shaped, arrowhead-shaped, or wavy. Leaves emerge from a central point. The prominent veins and smooth, almost plastic-looking texture add to its sculptural appeal.
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Size: Grows 2 to 4 feet tall and 2 to 5 feet wide.
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Flowers: Tiny white or green flowers on a spike (spadix), wrapped in a hoodlike sheath (spathe). The flowers aren’t the main attraction of this plant though!
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Hardiness: Grows best in USDA zones 10 to 12.
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Light: Bright, indirect light.
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Soil: Loose, well-draining soil that retains some moisture.
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Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy.
Where to Buy African Mask Plants
Now that you know what makes the African mask plant so unique, here are some recommendations for the best places to buy one:
Local Nurseries
Checking local nurseries and garden centers is a great option to see African mask plants in person and pick out the perfect specimen. Look for plants with large, unblemished leaves and healthy root systems.
The advantage of buying from a local nursery is you can inspect the plant carefully before purchasing. However, selection is limited to what that particular nursery has in stock.
Big Box Stores
Home improvement stores like Lowe’s and Home Depot often carry tropical houseplants like the African mask plant. They may not have the rarest varieties, but you can often find common types like Alocasia ‘Polly’ for reasonable prices.
The plants may not be in ideal condition since big box stores don’t always provide the best care. Inspect any plants you consider buying closely. But these stores do offer the convenience of buying along with your other shopping.
Online Nurseries
Ordering plants online opens up many more options for finding rare Alocasia varieties. Reputable online sellers to consider include:
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Etsy: Lots of small independent sellers offer established African mask plants and hard-to-find varieties. Reviews and shop policies can help identify the best Etsy plant shops.
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Houseplant shops: Online stores like Bloomscape, The Sill, and Horti specialize in shipping healthy houseplants. Their selection includes popular Alocasia types.
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Amazon: Search Amazon to find vendors selling African mask plants. Look for those with excellent ratings and reviews.
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Specialized nurseries: Shops like Gabriella Plants and Glasshouse Works focus specifically on Alocasia and other aroids. They offer the widest selection of varieties.
When buying online, avoid sellers with bad reviews or vague shipping and care policies. And be prepared to pay more for shipping delicate plants.
Things to Look for When Buying an African Mask Plant
No matter where you buy, inspect any African mask plant for:
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Healthy, undamaged leaves
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Moist (not sopping wet), lightweight soil
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Established root system if potted
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Pests like spider mites or scale insects
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Signs of disease like leaf spots
Buying younger plants can be more affordable. But they also come with a higher risk of transplant shock. More mature plants with 3-5 leaves often establish better.
Caring for Your African Mask Plant
Once you get your African mask plant home, proper care is key to helping it thrive in your indoor environment. Here are some growing tips:
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Light: Bright, indirect light is essential. East or west-facing windows are ideal. Provide 12-14 hours of light daily.
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Temperature: Prefers consistent temps between 65-80°F. Avoid drafty areas.
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Water: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Let the top inch dry out between waterings.
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Humidity: High humidity is a must. Mist leaves, use a pebble tray, or run a humidifier to provide 60-70% humidity.
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Soil: Use a rich, well-draining potting mix. Add perlite to improve drainage.
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Fertilizer: Feed monthly in the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength.
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Pruning: Remove dead or damaged leaves and flower spikes as needed to keep your plant looking its best.
With the proper care and conditions, the African mask plant can grow quickly and produce dramatic foliage. Just be sure to keep it away from pets as it is toxic if ingested.
Showcase the Unique African Mask Plant in Your Home
The African mask plant deserves a special spot in your home where its captivating leaves can really stand out. Place it somewhere it can draw the eye, like atop a plant stand or solo as a floor plant.
Just be sure not to overcrowd it with other plants that could block its light requirements. Its large size and tropical look make a big statement!
The Alocasia ‘African Mask’ Story
Where is it from?The Alocasia can be found growing along streams and marshes of tropical rainforests, in South Asia, Pacific Islands, and Eastern Australia.
Who is the Alocasia ‘African Mask’?The Alocasia is a striking beauty. The deep color and brilliant veining make this plant a must-have. The Alocasia belongs to the Araceae family. This family boasts 97 species belonging to the Alocasia genus.
Good For You!The Alocasia boasts strikingly detailed foliage that boosts your overall mood. The unique patterns of natural wonder are eye-catching.
Is the Alocasia ‘African Mask’ the right plant for me?
This plant is a fast-growing beauty. It does require weekly check-in, to ensure it continues to grow. If you can commit to checking weekly to keep the soil evenly moist then this plant is easy to care for!
Pet-friendly: Unfortunately, Alocasia plants are not pet-friendly. We always recommend keeping your plant away from curious pets and children.
Location Suggestions: We suggest placing this plant high up on a shelf where it can receive plenty of bright indirect light. Try this beauty out in your living room, bedroom, or bathroom.
Light
Bright indirect light. Leaves are sensitive and can burn easily from direct light or hot temperatures. Alocasias will move their leaves towards the light in undesirable low light levels.
Water
Prefers evenly damp-moist soil. Alocasias will begin to droop when they require more water.
Repotting
This can be done every 12-18 months. Choose a pot that is 2” larger in diameter than the original pot.
Soil
Use a well-draining, high organic matter soil mix.
Temperature
Average from 65°F – 75°F
Feeding
Follow a monthly fertilizing schedule when the plant is actively growing. In most cases, this is in the spring and summer. Use a balanced fertilizer – this means a ratio of NPK that is all the same. Ex: 10-10-10.
Grooming
Remove any dead or dying foliage at the base of the plant.
Care
Gently wipe down with a damp cloth to remove dust. Remove yellowing leaves right away.
Lowes Plant Find: Alocasia AKA African Mask Plant Only $19.99 at Lowes
FAQ
Where should I put my African mask plant?
What is the rare African mask plant?
Are African mask plants hard to grow?
Do African mask plants like to be misted?
How to care for African mask plant?
Maintain the soil on the drier side but at the same time constantly humid. Make sure the soil is well drained and check the roots for signs of root rot regularly. Mist the plants regularly and dust the leaves. The best temperature for African mask plant is between 60 and 75 o F (15 to 25 o C).
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 an African mask plant?
The African mask plant, commonly called the Kris plant, is a type of Alocasia from the Araceae family native to the tropics of the South Pacific. It earns its name from the unique foliage that resembles carved ceremonial masks from Africa.
Can African mask plants be grown outside?
The African Mask Plantcan also be grown outside in ideal conditions. When grown indoors, it will grow smaller than if outdoors. Keep your African Mask Plant moist at all times. However, you must avoid the soil being too soggy and the plant sitting in water constantly, as well as allowing the soil to dry out completely.