Light
Bright indirect light, no direct sun |
Soil
Well drained |
Water
Evenly moist, but not soggy. Allow to dry slightly between waterings, then water thoroughly |
Habit
2 feet (.61 m) tall to 3 feet (.91 m) wide |
Flowers
Yes, but mainly grown for its outstanding foliage |
Possible Problems
Generally pest free, but may see spider mites or scale on stressed plants
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Comments:
Fast growing plant with striking, variegated, dark green and white leaves. African Mask thrives in average home temperatures of 60 to 75° F (15.5 to 24° C), but requires high humidity (above 65%). To achieve this, a pebble tray filled with water works well.
Avoid cold drafts, because if the plant is ever chilled or dries out, it will immediately drop its leaves and go dormant. The good news is if you correct the problem, it will grow out new leaves.
Feed once a month during the warm summer months with a balanced, soluble plant food. When repotting, if needed in the spring, divide the plant's rhizome or tuber.
Wipe down the dark leaves occasionally to keep them clean of dust and dirt and to keep them looking their best.
Avoid too much moisture as it can cause crown rot, and low humidity causes leaf dieback.
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