Alocasia Zebrina Polly $12

When considering care factors like light and temperature for your Alocasia amazonica ‘Polly’, keep in mind its grandparents’ tropical rainforest habitat. Species in the undergrowth don’t receive direct sun—taller trees block out the strongest rays—but they aren’t in the dark either. In the home, your plant will appreciate a windowsill spot with plenty of light, but not too much harsh sun.

Because the areas Alocasias naturally inhabit never experience much of a chill, they haven’t evolved to withstand the cold. You’ll have to keep yours warm in the home. Room temperature is ideal, although warmer won’t be an issue either. Just try to keep the temperature above 65°F to prevent your Alocasia amazonica ‘Polly’ from thinking it’s time to go into hibernation. 

Tropical rainforests are pretty humid places and that’s exactly what Alocasia amazonica ‘Polly’ will need in the home as well. Keep your plant’s soil lightly moist at all times, especially during the warm summer months. You can let it dry a little further during winter, but never completely.