Alocasia ‘Polly’ / African Mask Plant (Alocasia × amazonica ‘Polly’)

Alocasia ‘Polly’ / African Mask Plant (Alocasia × amazonica ‘Polly’)

Alocasia ‘Polly’ (often called the African Mask Plant) is a compact, dramatic Elephant Ear prized for its dark green, glossy leaves with bold white veins and scalloped edges. It’s a perfect statement plant for bright interiors—especially for modern spaces where you want high-contrast foliage without a huge footprint.

Ideal for: bright indoor spaces, plant collectors, desks/side tables, apartments, and covered patios in warm climates.

🌿 Plant Features

Botanical Name: Alocasia × amazonica ‘Polly’
Common Name: Alocasia ‘Polly’, African Mask Plant, Amazonica Polly
Plant Type: Tropical foliage plant (Aroid / Elephant Ear)
Foliage: Dark green, arrow-shaped leaves with striking white veins and wavy/scalloped margins
Growth Habit: Compact, upright clumping form
Mature Size:

• Indoors/containers: ~1–3 ft tall (typically compact)

• Outdoors (warm climates): ~2–4 ft tall in ideal conditions
  Visual Style: High-contrast, modern tropical “statement” foliage

🪴 Care & Maintenance Guide

🌞 Light

• Best: Bright, indirect light

• Outdoors: Filtered sun / partial shade

• Avoid: Direct hot sun (leaf scorch) and very low light (slow growth, smaller leaves)

💧 Watering

• Water when the top 1–2 inches of soil begin to dry

• Keep soil evenly moist but never soggy

• Tip: Consistent moisture + good drainage keeps leaves crisp and healthy

🪨 Soil

• Rich, well-draining aroid mix (potting mix + orchid bark + perlite)

• Containers must have drainage holes

🌡️ Temperature & Humidity

• Ideal temperature: 65–85°F (18–29°C)

• Prefers higher humidity (helps prevent brown edges)

• Avoid cold drafts and temperatures below 60°F (16°C)

🌿 Fertilization

• Feed every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

• Use a balanced houseplant fertilizer at label rate

• Reduce feeding in fall/winter

✂️ Pruning

• Remove yellowing/damaged leaves at the base with clean scissors

• Wipe leaves gently to remove dust (helps photosynthesis)

⚠️ Common Issues

• Brown edges: low humidity, inconsistent watering, or mineral buildup

• Yellow leaves: overwatering or poor drainage

• Drooping: thirsty plant, cold stress, or sudden changes

• Pests: spider mites/thrips—treat early if detected

📦 What You’ll Receive

• One healthy Alocasia × amazonica ‘Polly’ in a nursery pot

• Natural variations in leaf size and vein contrast are normal

• Minor cosmetic leaf marks may occur from normal growing/handling

✅ Acclimation Tip

After delivery, let the plant settle 2–4 days in a stable spot with bright, indirect light. Avoid repotting immediately. Water only if the top of the soil has started to dry, and keep humidity moderate to high.

⚠️ Safety Note

Alocasia is toxic if ingested (pets and children) and contains calcium oxalate crystals. Keep out of reach, and wash hands after handling or pruning.