Troubleshooting
Alocasia Polly problems — and how to fix them
Alocasia Polly (Alocasia × amazonica 'Polly') is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Yellowing leaves
Usually a watering problem: overwatering and soggy compost are the most common cause and the first warning of root rot. A single old outer leaf yellowing is normal; multiple leaves yellowing at once means check the roots and the moisture.
Spider mites
The RHS notes 'Polly' is prone to glasshouse red spider mite, especially in dry air. Look for fine webbing and pale stippling on leaf undersides. Raise humidity, rinse both sides of the leaves and treat repeatedly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Dormancy / sudden collapse
Falling light and temperature in autumn can trigger drooping and leaf drop. The rhizome is usually still alive, so reduce watering, keep it warm above 15°C and wait; fresh leaves often appear when conditions improve in spring.
Crispy brown leaf edges
A sign of low humidity, dry air from radiators, or salt build-up from hard water or over-feeding. Boost humidity, water with rainwater or filtered water, and flush the compost periodically to leach out excess fertiliser.
Prevent alocasia polly problems before they start
Most alocasia polly issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Alocasia Polly problems — FAQ
Why is my alocasia polly yellowing leaves?
Usually a watering problem: overwatering and soggy compost are the most common cause and the first warning of root rot. A single old outer leaf yellowing is normal; multiple leaves yellowing at once means check the roots and the moisture.
Why is my alocasia polly spider mites?
The RHS notes 'Polly' is prone to glasshouse red spider mite, especially in dry air. Look for fine webbing and pale stippling on leaf undersides. Raise humidity, rinse both sides of the leaves and treat repeatedly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Why is my alocasia polly dormancy / sudden collapse?
Falling light and temperature in autumn can trigger drooping and leaf drop. The rhizome is usually still alive, so reduce watering, keep it warm above 15°C and wait; fresh leaves often appear when conditions improve in spring.
Why is my alocasia polly crispy brown leaf edges?
A sign of low humidity, dry air from radiators, or salt build-up from hard water or over-feeding. Boost humidity, water with rainwater or filtered water, and flush the compost periodically to leach out excess fertiliser.