Alocasia Polly is an attractive houseplant thats native to tropical regions of South Asia. Alocasia Polly can be cultivated and kept indoors year-round. With the right conditions and basic care, alocasia Polly is a pretty low-maintenance, easy-growing plant. It does best in filtered, dappled sunlight. Alocasia Polly and other elephant ear plants are considered invasive in mild, wetland climates such as the Gulf Coast of the United States. Before planting alocasia Polly outdoors, consult your local extension agent to check if this plant is an invasive species in your region—or simply keep it indoors as a houseplant. Because its mildly toxic, alocasia Polly should be kept out of reach of children and pets. Read on for our care guide.
The Alocasia Polly is one of the most popular houseplants around due to its lush green foliage and ease of care. But did you know there are actually many different varieties of Alocasia Polly plants to choose from? Each variety has its own unique leaf shapes, colors, and sizes to add visual interest to any indoor garden.
In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between the most common Alocasia Polly plant types so you can find the perfect one to brighten up your home
Overview of the Alocasia Polly Plant
The Alocasia Polly plant also known as the African Mask plant or Elephant Ear plant is a fast-growing tuber originally from the rainforests of Asia and Eastern Australia. It gets its name from the uniquely shaped leaves that resemble the ears of an elephant.
These tropical perennials thrive indoors in temperatures between 65-80°F and indirect sunlight. They enjoy high humidity so misting the leaves or using a pebble tray can help replicate their native environment.
Alocasias are easy to care for, making them a great choice for beginning houseplant parents. Let’s look at some of the most popular Alocasia Polly varieties on the market:
Alocasia Amazonica ‘Polly’
The original Alocasia Polly features dark green, glossy leaves with distinctive white veins. It has a compact growth habit, typically reaching 12-15 inches tall and wide.
This variety does well in medium to bright indirect light. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot. High humidity is key to keeping the leaves looking their best.
Alocasia Amazonica ‘Bambino’
‘Bambino’ is a dwarf, miniature version of the classic Polly. It has the same familiar leaf shape and white veins but on a smaller scale, with leaves growing to around 3-5 inches long.
This petite Polly stays under 6 inches tall, making it perfect for desks and small plant stands. Give it the same care as the standard Polly. Its small size also makes it a great option for terrariums.
Alocasia Micholitziana ‘Frydek’
Known for its velvety, lime-green leaves, ‘Frydek’ adds a pop of color to any indoor garden. Its leaves lack the white veins seen on most Polly varieties.
This fast grower can reach 3 feet tall at maturity. Provide bright, indirect sunlight to maintain the vibrant foliage. Water when the top few inches of soil are dry.
Alocasia Reginula ‘Black Velvet’
Living up to its name, ‘Black Velvet’ has stunning dark blackish-green leaves. The leaves have a velvety texture with light green veins running through them.
This compact variety stays around 12 inches tall. Give it medium to bright indirect light and evenly moist soil. The dark leaves will fade to green if light levels are too low.
Alocasia Baginda ‘Dragon Scale’
One of the most distinctive Alocasias, ‘Dragon Scale’ has elongated, arrowhead-shaped leaves reminiscent of dragon scales. The heavily textured leaves have an iridescent quality.
This showstopper can grow up to 3 feet tall indoors. Bright, indirect light is essential to maintain the unique leaf coloring. Water when the top inch of soil is dry.
Alocasia Cuprea ‘Red Secret’
As the name hints, ‘Red Secret’ hides a reddish-purple underside to its dark green leaves. When the wind blows, the undersides are revealed like a secret.
This variety grows 2-3 feet tall and does best in medium indirect sunlight. Mist the leaves often to prevent spider mites, which are attracted to the red coloration.
Alocasia Macrorrhiza ‘Giant Taro’
Living up to its name, ‘Giant Taro’ can grow massive leaves up to 3 feet long! This elephant ear relative has heart-shaped leaves on long, upright stems.
This giant needs plenty of space to reach its full potential. Give it bright, indirect light or partial sun and moist, rich soil. The huge leaves act as natural air purifiers.
Alocasia Portei
If you want a true showstopper, check out Alocasia portei! This rare Polly variety has wildly ruffled, rippled leaves like no other. The leaves have a reptilian, prehistoric appearance.
This mystery plant needs warm temperatures and high humidity to thrive. Site it in a bright spot out of direct sun. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Tips for Growing Different Alocasia Polly Varieties
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All Alocasia Polly plants flourish in loose, well-draining soil. Use a peat-based potting mix amended with perlite or orchid bark.
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Fertilize every 2-4 weeks during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted by half.
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Watch for pests like spider mites that can hide on the leaf undersides. Wipe leaves down with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
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Rotate the plant periodically so all sides get equal light exposure. This encourages even, upright growth.
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Remove dead or dying leaves promptly to keep your plant looking its best. Don’t cut off more than 1/3 of leaves at once.
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Propagate by dividing the tubers when repotting or by taking stem cuttings in spring or summer.
Finding the Perfect Polly for You
Alocasia Polly plants come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and colors. Whether you’re looking for a compact tabletop specimen or a bold floor plant, there’s a variety that fits your needs.
Pay attention to the light and space requirements for each variety to help you pick the right one for your growing conditions. With their tropical jungle vibes and ease of care, Alocasia Polly plants are sure to be stars of your indoor garden!
Pruning
Since alocasia Polly is pretty slow-growing, especially when kept indoors, pruning is typically not needed to shape the plant or control its growth. Cut back dead or damaged leaves in spring or summer when the plant has the energy to put out new growth. Use sterilized pruners or shears and cut back leaves at the base of the stem. While alocasia Polly rarely blooms while kept indoors, its a good idea to prune back any spent flower heads to help promote leaf growth.
What Do Alocasia Polly’s Flowers Look Like?
These plants grow small, pale flowers that are white or yellow.
10 Easy to Find Alocasia Varieties | Polly, Zebrina, Black Velvet, Silver Dragon, Lauterbachiana
FAQ
How do I identify my Alocasia plant?
How many varieties of Alocasia are there?
What Alocasias are rare?
What is the most beautiful Alocasia plant?
What are the different types of Alocasia plants?
But while most people might only know one or two types of Alocasia plants, there are actually hundreds of stunning cultivars in a range of colors, sizes, and shapes. 1. Alocasia amazonica ‘Polly’ 2. Alocasia amazonica ‘Bambino’ 3. Alocasia amazonica ‘Ivory Coast’ 4. Alocasia micholitziana ‘Frydek’ 5. Alocasia reginula ‘Black Velvet’ 6.
Is Alocasia Polly a perennial?
Alocasia amazonica ‘Polly’ is a perennial favorite for a reason. Not only is it the most readily available Alocasia in garden centers and plant shops, it’s fast growing and propagates easily by dividing the roots and replanting the sections in potting soil.
Can Alocasia Polly be propagated by division?
If your healthy alocasia Polly is growing from at least two bulbs with two leaves, you can propagate the plant by division. If you have a mature plant that’s beginning to crowd its pot, division is a great solution. The best time to propagate alocasia Polly is during the spring and summer when the plant is actively growing.
What color is Alocasia Polly?
Alocasia Polly comes in different hues, from lush shades of purple and red to dark, velvety black, striking silver, and green. There are about 90 varieties of Alocasia, each with a distinct appearance and care requirements. Some common varieties include: Alocasia amazonica: Leathery, wavy-edged green leaves with striking white veins.