Alocasia amazonica 'Polly'
Make a bold statement with the dramatic beauty of Alocasia amazonica 'Polly'. This striking plant is instantly recognizable by its deep green, arrow-shaped leaves, dramatically contrasted with prominent, silvery-white veins and a reddish-purple underside. Its sculptural form and exotic appearance make it a true showstopper, perfect for adding a touch of the rainforest to your curated indoor space.
Plant Placement Area:
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Bright, indirect light: Thrives in bright, filtered sunlight. Avoid direct, intense sun, which can scorch its delicate leaves. An east or west-facing window is often ideal.
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Warm and humid environment: Prefers consistent warmth (18-25°C / 65-77°F) and high humidity. Avoid cold drafts.
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Sheltered spot: Keep away from heating vents, open windows, or doorways that cause drafts.
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Showcase spot: Its unique foliage makes it an excellent focal point on a tabletop or shelf.
Benefits:
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Striking visual appeal: Its unique leaf shape and contrasting veins create an immediate artistic impact.
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Exotic aesthetic: Brings a touch of the tropical jungle indoors.
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Relatively compact: Its manageable size makes it suitable for various indoor settings.
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Conversation starter: A truly distinctive plant that draws attention.
Watering Tips:
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Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy: Water thoroughly when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel slightly dry. Do not let it dry out completely.
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Water evenly: Ensure the entire root ball is moistened.
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Avoid overwatering: Excess water can quickly lead to root rot. Ensure the pot has excellent drainage.
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Reduce watering in winter: As growth slows, less frequent watering is needed.
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Use lukewarm, filtered water: Alocasias can be sensitive to chemicals in tap water
Care Tips:
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Provide high humidity: This is critical! Mist frequently, use a humidifier, or place the pot on a pebble tray with water. Brown leaf edges are often a sign of insufficient humidity.
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Fertilize during the growing season: Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 2-4 weeks in spring and summer. Reduce or stop in fall and winter.
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Dust the leaves gently: Wipe the leaves with a soft, damp cloth to keep them clean and allow for better photosynthesis.
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Prune yellow or damaged leaves: Trim any yellowing or crispy leaves at the base.
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Repot sparingly: Alocasias prefer to be somewhat root-bound. Repot only when absolutely necessary, usually every 1-2 years, into a pot only slightly larger.
Watch for pests: Keep an eye out for spider mites, which are common with low humidity.
Light Level:
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Bright Indirect Light: Ideal for vibrant foliage and healthy growth.
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Avoid Low Light: Can lead to leggy growth and duller leaf colors
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Avoid Direct Sunlight: Will cause leaf scorch and damage.
Toxic to pets and humans: Contains calcium oxalates that can cause oral irritation, pain, swelling, and difficulty swallowing if ingested. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Wear gloves when handling if you have sensitive skin.
