Colocasia esculenta 'Pharaoh's Mask'

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.

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.