African Mask Plant
Alocasia amazonica

African Mask Plant

African Mask Plant (Alocasia amazonica) is a tropical plant growing 3-5 feet tall, hardy in USDA zones 9-11, with moderate growth in moist, well-drained soil, requiring partial shade and high moisture, and it is neither edible nor medicinal.


Picture illustrating African Mask Plant

Habit

Tropical 

Height

3-5 ft 

Growth

Moderate 

Soil

Moist, well-drained 

Shade

 Partial shade

Moisture

 High

Edible

 No

Medicinal

No

Origin

South East Asia

Climatic Condition

Tropical ,Humid

Temperature (°)

18-30°C

Humidity (%)

60-90%

Potting media

Peat+Perlite

Fertilizers

Organic Compost

Watering

Moderate, Keep Moist

Plant Weight 

100-300 g

Flowering Time

Seasonal

Soil Ph level

5.5-7.0

Water Ph level

6.0-7.5

Soil EC

1-2 dS/m

Yield Per Plant 

 Ornamental

NPK ratio 

10:10:10

life Span

5-8 yrs

Health Benefits

 

Suggested Grow Media or Potting Mix ?

 40% peat moss, 30% perlite, 30% compost


Suggested Fertigation/Fertilizers

 Fertilize every 2 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer.

Common Diseases and Remedies

Root Rot, Leaf Spot, Mealybugs, Spider Mites, Aphids.

Yellowing, wilting leaves Brown/black spots on leaves White cottony masses on leaves Tiny webs, speckled leaves Curling, yellowing leaves

Improve drainage, reduce watering Prune affected leaves, neem oil spray Wipe with alcohol, neem oil Increase humidity, neem oil Insecticidal soap, neem oil

Fungicides containing metalaxyl, Copper-based fungicides, Systemic insecticides like imidacloprid, Miticides containing abamectin.

                  HEALTH BENEFITS

The African Mask Plant (also known as Alocasia polly or African Mask) is primarily valued for its striking appearance rather than its medicinal benefits. However, like many houseplants, it can offer a few indirect health benefits:

  1. Air Purification: Like other indoor plants, the African Mask Plant can help purify the air by removing toxins such as formaldehyde and improving overall air quality.

  2. Mental Well-being: Caring for plants, including the African Mask, can have therapeutic effects. Indoor plants can reduce stress, anxiety, and improve mood, contributing to overall mental well-being.

  3. Humidity: African Mask Plants release moisture into the air through a process known as transpiration. This can help increase indoor humidity, especially in dry environments, which may be beneficial for respiratory health and skin hydration.

While not typically used for direct medicinal purposes, having the African Mask Plant in your home can still offer some general health and wellness advantages

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