Thirsty › Plant care › Alocasia Polly

Alocasia Polly care

Alocasia × amazonica 'Polly' (in Thirsty: Alocasia × amazonica)

Thirsty’s starting schedule for Alocasia Polly: about every 5 days. Check the soil and adjust it to your home.

Watering

From spring to autumn, water once the top 5cm (2in) of compost has dried. In winter, while it rests, water only minimally; overwatering can rot the roots. [1]

Light

Bright but indirect light; strong sun can scorch the leaves. [1]

Humidity

Likes medium to high humidity during the growing season, and home air is often too dry for it. [1]

Soil and potting

Peat-free multi-purpose compost with grit added for drainage, about three parts compost to one part grit. [1]

Pets

Toxic to cats and dogs; chewing it can irritate and swell the mouth and cause drooling, vomiting and trouble swallowing. [2]

Sources

1. Royal Horticultural Society: How to grow alocasias / RHS Growing Guide
2. ASPCA: Toxic and Non-toxic Plants: Alocasia

This page summarizes the sources above; follow them for the full picture. Light, pot, soil and season all change how fast a plant dries out, so check the soil before you water. Last reviewed October 9, 2026.