Alocasia Polly

How to care for alocasia polly

• Light: Requires bright, indirect light; direct sun can scorch the leaves. Low light will cause leggy growth and dull coloration.
• Water: Keep the soil consistently moist but never soggy. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, reducing frequency in winter.
• Soil: Needs a rich, well-draining, and airy potting mix. An aroid mix with good organic content and perlite/bark is ideal.
• Temperature: Thrives in warm temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C). Avoid temperatures below 60°F (15°C) and cold drafts.
• Humidity: Requires high humidity (above 60%) to thrive. Use a humidifier, pebble tray, or regular misting to provide adequate moisture.
• Fertilizer: Feed every 2-4 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Suspend feeding in fall and winter.
• Propagation: Propagated by dividing rhizomes or corms during repotting. Carefully separate the corms and plant them in fresh, moist soil.

Is alocasia polly toxic to pets?

Not pet-safe. Toxic to cats, dogs, and humans, causing oral irritation, pain, swelling, and difficulty swallowing due to calcium oxalate crystals. See our guide to toxic plants for cats and dogs.

Common problems

• Brown, crispy leaf edges or tips: Often a sign of low humidity or underwatering. Increase humidity with a humidifier or pebble tray and ensure consistent soil moisture.
• Drooping or yellowing leaves with soft stems: Indicates overwatering and potential root rot. Reduce watering frequency, ensure proper drainage, and allow the topsoil to dry slightly before watering again.

Did you know?

Alocasia 'Polly' is a cultivar of Alocasia amazonica, which is itself believed to be a hybrid, not a naturally occurring species.

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