The Colocasia esculenta cultivar ‘Pharaoh’s Mask’ is a striking ornamental plant prized for its dramatic foliage. Its large, heart-shaped leaves are vibrant lime-green, featuring a network of raised, deep purple-black veins that bulge outward. This unique venation creates a three-dimensional, sculptural effect, giving the plant its regal name. Its upright growth habit and rich color contrast provide a bold, architectural element to tropical landscapes and container gardens.
Ideal Conditions for Planting and Growth
‘Pharaoh’s Mask’ performs optimally in bright, indirect light, which encourages the development of its signature dark vein coloration. While it can tolerate some direct morning sun, harsh afternoon sunlight should be avoided as it easily scorches the large, tender leaves. Filtered light throughout the day or afternoon shade will prevent leaf burn.
The soil composition is a determining factor for robust growth, as this Colocasia is a heavy feeder requiring rich, organic material. A consistently moist, yet well-draining substrate is necessary to prevent the corm from rotting while supporting the plant’s high water needs. An ideal soil mix should have a slightly acidic to neutral pH, generally ranging between 6.0 and 7.3.
As a tropical cultivar, ‘Pharaoh’s Mask’ thrives in warm conditions, preferring temperatures between 70°F and 85°F during its active growing season. The plant is cold-sensitive and must be protected from temperatures dropping below 50°F. It is grown outdoors year-round only in USDA hardiness zones 7b through 11. In cooler climates, planting should be delayed until all danger of frost has passed in late spring or early summer.
Routine Watering and Feeding Maintenance
Maintaining consistently moist soil is crucial to the plant’s health and vigor. Unlike many plants, ‘Pharaoh’s Mask’ is highly water-loving and should never be allowed to dry out completely. The soil should feel like a well-wrung sponge—continuously damp but not saturated or waterlogged, which can lead to root issues. Watering frequency increases significantly for container plants, particularly during hot weather.
Consistent nutrient delivery is important due to the plant’s rapid growth and large foliage. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer can be incorporated into the soil at planting. This should be supplemented every two to six weeks throughout the spring and summer active growing season with a water-soluble, balanced fertilizer. Choosing a formulation higher in nitrogen promotes larger, more intensely colored leaves.
General grooming involves removing older or damaged foliage to maintain a clean appearance and direct energy toward new growth. Leaves that begin to yellow or show signs of wear should be trimmed away at the base of the petiole. No formal pruning is required.
Protecting Your Plant from Pests and Cold
For gardeners outside of tropical regions, preparing ‘Pharaoh’s Mask’ for winter is essential. The plant’s corm cannot survive freezing temperatures and must be lifted from the ground after the first light frost kills the foliage. After digging, allow the tuber to dry for several days, removing any excess soil. Store the cleaned tubers in a cool, dry, and dark location (45°F to 65°F) until replanting the following spring.
If the plant is grown in a container, it can be brought indoors to a cool, bright, frost-free location for overwintering instead of removing the tuber. During this semi-dormant period, watering should be drastically reduced to once every four to six weeks. This prevents the tuber from drying out completely without inducing rot until warmer weather returns.
Common pests that may occasionally bother the foliage include spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. These infestations are managed with applications of insecticidal soap or neem oil. Ensure the entire leaf surface, especially the undersides, is thoroughly treated.