Alocasia Polly – Alocasia × amazonica ‘Polly’

Alocasia × amazonica ‘Polly’, commonly known as Alocasia Polly or African Mask Plant, is a striking tropical houseplant prized for its dramatic arrow-shaped foliage and bold contrasting veins. Its glossy, deep green leaves feature prominent silvery-white veining and beautifully scalloped edges, creating an almost sculptural appearance. The undersides of the leaves display rich purple to burgundy tones, adding even more contrast to this distinctive variety. Compact compared to larger Alocasia varieties, ‘Polly’ delivers impressive tropical foliage without requiring a large amount of space. Exotic, highly ornamental, and rewarding to grow, Alocasia Polly brings bold rainforest character to shelves, plant stands, bright corners, offices, and indoor plant collections.

QUICK FACTS

Botanical name: Alocasia × amazonica ‘Polly’
Common name: Alocasia Polly, African Mask Plant
Pot size: Varies by selection
Growth habit: Upright, compact, clumping tropical plant
Light: Bright indirect light
Water: Water when the upper portion of the potting mix begins to dry
Care level: Moderate
Pet safety: Toxic to cats and dogs

CARE

Light: Provide bright, indirect light to maintain healthy growth and strong foliage development. Medium indirect light is also suitable, although growth may slow and leaves may become smaller. Gentle morning sunlight can be beneficial, but avoid prolonged harsh afternoon sun, which can scorch the foliage.

Water: Keep the growing medium lightly and evenly moist, allowing the upper 1–2 inches to begin drying before watering again. Water thoroughly, then allow excess water to drain freely. Avoid keeping the roots constantly saturated, as Alocasias are sensitive to waterlogged conditions and root rot. Reduce watering during cooler months or periods of slower growth.

Humidity: Prefers moderate to high humidity, ideally around 60% or higher. Increased humidity encourages healthy leaf development and helps prevent crispy edges or browning tips. A humidifier or grouping with other tropical plants can help maintain suitable conditions. Good airflow is also important.

Soil: Use a chunky, well-draining aroid mix that retains some moisture while allowing plenty of airflow around the roots. Orchid bark, perlite, coco chips, and quality potting media work well for maintaining healthy root growth and proper drainage.

Temperature: Prefers warm conditions around 65–85°F. Protect from cold drafts, air-conditioning vents, and prolonged exposure to temperatures below 60°F. Cooler conditions may slow growth or trigger dormancy.

Fertilizer: Feed lightly with a balanced fertilizer during periods of active growth. Avoid excessive fertilization, which can damage sensitive roots. Reduce or stop feeding during periods of dormancy or slower growth.

GROWTH & HABIT

Alocasia Polly is a moderate-growing tropical plant that typically reaches around 1–2 feet tall with a spread of approximately 1–2 feet indoors, depending on growing conditions and container size. Its upright growth habit produces dramatic arrow-shaped leaves held on sturdy stems that emerge from an underground rhizome. As the plant matures, new leaves develop from the central growing point, gradually creating a fuller display.

Established plants may also produce offsets that develop into additional shoots around the base. Older leaves may naturally yellow and decline as new growth emerges, particularly during seasonal changes. Under cooler or lower-light conditions, Alocasia Polly may enter a period of dormancy and lose some or all of its foliage before producing new growth when favorable conditions return.

PET SAFETY

Pet Safety: Toxic to cats and dogs. Alocasia Polly contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can cause oral irritation, swelling, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing if chewed or ingested. Keep out of reach of pets and small children.

AFTER DELIVERY

Do not repot a freshly shipped plant for at least two weeks after delivery. Repotting during the Blackwater Plants guarantee period voids live plant guarantee coverage.