Elephant Ear

Alocasia amazonicaAlso known as: African Mask Plant, Alocasia Polly, Jewel Alocasia

Alocasia amazonica (often sold as 'Polly') is a stunning tropical plant with dramatic arrow-shaped leaves featuring bold white veins against deep green to almost black backgrounds. Growing 12-24 inches (30-60 cm) tall, it makes a striking statement piece. Despite its exotic appearance, it can thrive indoors with proper humidity and care.

Moderate Care

Bright Indirect Light

Perennial

Quick Care Summary

Light
Bright Indirect Light

Temperature Range
60-85°F (16-29°C)

Ideal Temp
70°F (21°C)

Toxic to Pets

This plant is toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. Keep it out of reach of pets, or consider pet-safe alternatives. Symptoms of ingestion may include drooling, vomiting, or difficulty swallowing.

Seasonal Care Schedule

Adjust your care routine based on the season for optimal plant health.

Watering Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Every 5-7 days, when top inch (2.5 cm) is dry
Summer	Every 4-5 days, keep consistently moist
Fall	Every 7-10 days, reduce frequency
Winter	Every 10-14 days, allow more drying

Consistent moisture is key. Yellow leaves often mean overwatering; drooping can indicate either too much or too little water.

Misting Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Daily
Summer	Multiple times daily in dry conditions
Fall	Daily
Winter	Daily to combat indoor heating

LOVES humidity - 60-80% ideal. Humidifier strongly recommended. Brown edges indicate low humidity.

Fertilizing Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Every 2 weeks with balanced liquid fertilizer
Summer	Every 2 weeks during active growth
Fall	Monthly
Winter	Monthly or suspend if growth stops

Heavy feeder during growing season. Dilute to half strength to prevent fertilizer burn.

Pruning

Frequency: Remove yellowing or damaged leaves

Best Season: Any time

Cut leaves at the base. Losing lower leaves is normal as plant grows new ones.

Repotting

Frequency: Every 1-2 years

Best Season: Spring

Use chunky, well-draining aroid mix. Don't go too large with pot size - can lead to overwatering.

Flowering

Season
Rarely indoors

Color
Pale yellow-green spathe

Small calla lily-like flowers. Most growers remove them to direct energy to foliage.

Propagation Methods

Division of corms/rhizomes when repotting
Separate offset plants with roots
Best done in spring

Common Problems

Brown leaf edges: Low humidity - most common issue
Yellow leaves: Overwatering or natural leaf drop
Drooping leaves: Water stress (too much or too little)
Spider mites: Common in dry conditions - maintain humidity

Pro Tips

Place on pebble tray and near humidifier for best results
Wipe leaves regularly to remove dust and check for pests
May go dormant and lose leaves in winter - reduce care and wait for regrowth
Not the same as outdoor Elephant Ears (Colocasia) - this is Alocasia

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