Colocasia 'Pharaoh’s Mask' – Sculptural Aroid with Deep Vein Contrast


Colocasia 'Pharaoh’s Mask' is an extraordinary ornamental cultivar that looks like something straight out of mythology. Its upright, arrow-shaped leaves are a rich, vibrant green—but what truly sets it apart is the dramatic, deep purple-black rib structure that bulges outwards like a raised skeleton from the surface. This bold contrast gives the plant a sculptural, 3D quality that looks almost unreal. Each leaf feels more like a living statue than tropical foliage. Fast-growing and statement-making, this patented variety thrives in warm, bright conditions and holds its structure well indoors or in conservatories.


Foliage Detail and Unique Structure of Colocasia 'Pharaoh’s Mask'



 
Leaf shape: Upright, sagittate (arrowhead) leaves with defined tips and broad shoulders
 
Colour: Bright green leaf surface with deep purple-black, outward-raised veins
 
Growth habit: Upright, self-heading with slightly arching leaves on tall petioles
 
Size: Reaches up to 1.2–1.5 m tall indoors; leaf spread can exceed 60–90 cm
 
Texture: Smooth leaf surface contrasted by ribbed, raised central and lateral veins


Habitat and Origin of Colocasia 'Pharaoh’s Mask'


While Colocasia species are native to wet, tropical regions of Southeast Asia, the cultivar 'Pharaoh’s Mask' is a horticultural variety bred in the USA and patented under the name ‘COPHAMA’ (PP33772). It's been selected for its standout venation and upright growth habit. Like other elephant ears, it thrives in warm, high-humidity environments with rich, consistently moist substrate. Indoors, it becomes a dramatic focal point with enough space and steady warmth.
⚠ Note: Like other Colocasia, it is toxic if ingested and should be kept away from pets and children.


How to Care for Colocasia 'Pharaoh’s Mask'



 
Light: Bright, indirect light is ideal; can tolerate some early sun but avoid scorching
 
Watering: Keep substrate evenly moist but not soggy; never let it dry out completely
 
Humidity: Prefers 60–80%; mist-free high humidity improves growth and leaf expansion
 
Temperature: Thrives at 20–30 °C; do not expose to temperatures below 15 °C
 
Soil: Rich, organic mix with added aeration (bark, perlite, coco coir)
 
Repotting: Once per year or when roots fill the container
 
Fertilising: Feed monthly during active growth with a balanced liquid fertiliser
 
Propagation: By division of rhizomes or offsets from the base
 
Hydroponics: Can adapt to semi-hydro systems with nutrient-rich conditions
 
Pruning: Remove yellowing or damaged leaves at the base as needed


Common Problems with Colocasia 'Pharaoh’s Mask'



 
Leaf yellowing: Usually from overwatering or poor drainage—adjust watering and substrate
 
Crisping or browning tips: Caused by low humidity or inconsistent watering
 
Root rot: Avoid standing water and use a well-draining pot
 
Spider mites or thrips: Can appear in dry conditions—rinse foliage and treat quickly
 
Drooping leaves: Often related to underwatering or abrupt temperature changes


Extra Growing Tips for Colocasia 'Pharaoh’s Mask'


This plant grows large quickly in the right conditions, so give it space to expand. Colocasia 'Pharaoh’s Mask' responds best to steady warmth, high humidity, and frequent watering. Mimic its jungle floor origins with rich, moist soil and filtered light. Rotate regularly to encourage even growth and maintain its sculptural appearance. It may go semi-dormant in winter—reduce watering if growth slows, but do not allow the substrate to dry completely.


Etymology and Botanical Classification of Colocasia


Colocasia comes from the ancient Greek word for the edible taro root. The cultivar name 'Pharaoh’s Mask' refers to the dramatic, mask-like ribbing across the leaf surface, reminiscent of ceremonial ornamentation. This variety is registered as ‘COPHAMA’ and protected under US Plant Patent No. 33772.


FAQs about Colocasia 'Pharaoh’s Mask'



 
Can I grow it outdoors?

 Yes—in warm climates or during summer; bring indoors before temperatures drop below 15 °C.
 
Will it survive low humidity?

 It will survive but grow slower and with less dramatic leaf size—use a humidifier if needed.
 
Is it suitable for terrariums?

 No—it gets too large and needs airflow; better suited for large pots or conservatories.


Buy Colocasia 'Pharaoh’s Mask' Now


Architectural, bold, and fast-growing—Colocasia 'Pharaoh’s Mask' is a showstopper with sculpted foliage and serious presence. Order now and bring home this extraordinary aroid statement plant.