Alocasia is a genus of broad-leaved plants which often grow to be quite big. Whilst indigenous to tropical areas of Asia and Australia, they are quite coveted houseplants. Their stems can be edible if prepared correctly, but are poisonous if not.
African Mask
Botanical Name: Alocasia Mandalay
Otherwise known as the African Mask Plant, the Alocasia Mandalay is an exciting new mutation of the ‘Polly’ species. With a base colour of blue green, the Mandalay’s heart-shaped leaves are accented by stark silver veins. They usually grow to be between 8 and 16 inches tall, which makes them the perfect size for a coffee table ornament or dining table centrepiece.
Though the Mandalay is drought-tolerant and a year-round fixture, best results are achieved through daily-watering. It is usually best to water a Mandalay in the morning as they tend not to take in as much water when it is dark, but they are laid-back plants, so no great calamity will occur if they are watered later on. The Mandalay is generally tolerant of shade. Owners in cooler climates should note that they may find the Mandalay more difficult to grow without equipment to regulate temperature and humidity, as these plants are endemic to tropical areas.