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Image of Alocasia × mortfontanensis (Alocasia × mortfontanensis)

Alocasia × mortfontanensis imagePhoto: Author Jerzy OpiołaGFDL

African Mask Plant

Alocasia × mortfontanensis

Also known as: Alocasia × Mortfontanensis, Amazonian Elephant Ear

Alocasia × mortfontanensis is a striking rhizomatous perennial hybrid known for its dramatic foliage. It features large, arrow-shaped leaves with deeply lobed bases and prominent white or silvery veins contrasting against dark green surfaces. The plant grows upright, reaching up to 1.5 meters tall, with thick stems supporting its iconic shield-shaped leaves. Its artificial hybrid origin combines traits from Alocasia longiloba (elongated leaves) and Alocasia sanderiana (deeply scalloped leaf edges), creating a distinctive tropical appearance.

Plant Care Overview

Difficultymoderate
LightBright, indirect light
WaterWater when top 1-2 inches of soil are dry
Humidityhigh

Care Guide

Essential requirements for your Alocasia × mortfontanensis

Light & Location

Light Requirements

Bright, indirect light

Light conditions can affect leaf color and growth rate. Adjust placement as needed based on your plant's response.

Water & Humidity

Watering Schedule

Water when top 1-2 inches of soil are dry

Humidity Needs

high humidity

Always check soil moisture before watering. Adjust frequency based on your home's conditions.

Temperature & Environment

Temperature Range

18°C to 27°C (65°F to 80°F)

Keep away from drafts, heaters, and air conditioners which can stress your plant.

Soil & Nutrition

Soil Type

Well-draining, peat-based potting mix with perlite or orchid bark

Fertilizer

Balanced houseplant fertilizer during growing season

Consider repotting every 1-2 years to refresh soil nutrients and accommodate growth.

Propagation

Methods to grow more Alocasia × mortfontanensis plants

Division of rhizomes during repotting

Plant Info

Characteristics and background information

Plant Characteristics
Growth Rate

moderate

Mature Size

Up to 1.5 meters (5 feet) tall

Lifecycle

perennial

Pet Safety

Toxic to pets

Fun Fact

This hybrid was artificially created by combining species from different continents - Alocasia longiloba from Southeast Asia and Alocasia sanderiana from the Philippines.

Troubleshooting

Solutions for typical issues with your Alocasia × mortfontanensis

Spider mites
Symptoms

Fine webbing on leaves, yellow stippling on foliage

Root rot
Symptoms

Yellowing leaves, mushy stems, foul soil odor

Leaf yellowing
Symptoms

General yellowing of lower leaves, crispy edges

Varieties

Different varieties of Alocasia × mortfontanensis

Alocasia × amazonica
More pronounced leaf scalloping and thicker white veins compared to other hybrids

Commonly mislabeled cultivar with deep green leaves and striking white venation

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