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Alocasia Polly will bring some mid-century style to your home. Also known as Elephant Ear Plant, this tropical beauty first became popular during the 1950s. The gorgeous Alocasia Polly boasts striking, glossy, dark green foliage with thick silver veins, which grows on a thick stem verging on red. Originally from Southeast Asia, these houseplants prefer high humidity, bright light, and warm temperatures.
Alocasia Polly Care Guide & Presentation
Keep this plant in bright to medium-filtered light.
Let the soil dry between waterings.
This plant thrives in humid environments.
Alocasia Polly's prefer a warm, humid temperatures between 60-80°F. They will go into dormancy if the temperature goes below 60°F.
Outdoors part shade in morning sun (4-6 hrs.) where nights are above 60°F. Indoors in bright indirect sun areas. When bringing indoors, cut back by 1/3 to overwinter.
Slow release granules can be added to the soil or fertilize when watering with a liquid form according to directions. Do not fertilize in the fall and winter months during the resting season.
When you're ready to repot, select a container with a drainage hole and 2" larger in diameter and height. Place a piece of screening at the bottom of the container over the drainage hole to secure the soil and allow them to drain. Use an indoor container mix that is well-draining. Add soil to the bottom of the container. Place the plant in the center. Ensure that the top level of the soil is a 1/2 inch below the pot's top edge to discourage spillover when watering. Backfill around the edges and pack lightly down to eliminate any air bubbles. Water well to dampen the soil and let the water drain.
Gently wipe clean with a soft damp cloth or paper towel. Work gently from the base of the stem toward the tip of the leaf doing both sides at once.
After cleaning the leaves, remove any dead leaves or debris on the surface of the soil. Do not mist this plant as that will encourage plant diseases. Refresh the soil mixture if needed. Prune away damaged or diseased leaves down to the stem base with sterile scissors. They can be pruned down to a manageable size if overgrown.
Indoors: Propagate and divide alocasia in the early spring when emerging from dormancy. Pull from the container and brush or wash away the soil carefully. Carefully divide tubers apart and repot in a rich, indoor potting soil mix.
Outdoors: Carefully loosen the soil and dig the tubers up, avoiding damaging the tubers. Divide the tubers and plant in new locations in your garden. Add rich, damp, and loamy soil in a part-shade morning sun location. Plant three feet apart if grouping together. Place the tubers at the depth they were in the ground before. Water the soil and tuber well before covering with soil. Add topsoil and water slightly to dampen. Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
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Alocasia Polly: Overview
Alocasia Polly, commonly known as the Elephant Ear plant, is a striking houseplant celebrated for its bold, arrow-shaped leaves with prominent white veins. Its botanical name is Alocasia amazonica ‘Polly' .This unique variety belongs to the Araceae family and is thought to have originated in tropical regions of Southeast Asia. Alocasia Amazonica Polly thrives in USDA hardiness zones 10-12, making it well-suited for warm, humid environments.
The plant typically reaches a height of 1-2 feet, making it a compact yet stunning addition to any indoor space. Alocasia Polly prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions, making it relatively versatile in terms of placement. However, it does require some specific care to thrive, particularly in terms of humidity and watering, as it is sensitive to overwatering.
The Alocasia genus is often associated with protection and power, which is reflected in the plant’s sturdy, shield-like leaves. The unique leaf shape and veining patterns have led to its common nickname, African Mask Plant. It’s important to note that Alocasia Amazonica Variegated is toxic to pets if ingested.
For those looking for another striking and rare Alocasia variety, the Variegated Alocasia Frydek is an excellent choice, known for its beautiful variegated foliage.
Alocasia Indoor Plant: Benefits
- Purifies the air by filtering out toxins
- Reduces stress and promotes relaxation
- Adds a tropical and exotic aesthetic appeal to any indoor space
- Excellent gift plant for plant enthusiasts
- Serves as a statement piece, enhancing the decor of any room
Alocasia Polly: Care Guide
Alocasia Polly, also known as the Elephant Ear plant, is a visually striking houseplant that requires moderate care, making it suitable for plant enthusiasts with some experience.
Watering and Light
Alocasia Amazonica Variegated Polly prefers consistently moist soil but is sensitive to overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Water the plant thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, and ensure good drainage. This plant thrives in bright, indirect light, mimicking the dappled sunlight it receives in its natural habitat. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.
Temperature and Humidity
Being tropical, the Alocasia Polly enjoys warm temperatures ranging from 65-80°F (18-27°C). It is sensitive to cold drafts and should be kept away from air conditioners or open windows in winter. High humidity levels are essential for this plant; aim for at least 60% humidity. Use a humidifier or place the plant on a tray of pebbles and water to maintain adequate moisture.
Soil and Repotting
Plant your Alocasia Polly in a well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter, such as a mix of peat, perlite, and pine bark. This plant prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil. Repotting should be done every 1-2 years in the spring to refresh the soil and provide room for growth. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the previous one to avoid excessive soil moisture.
Feeding and Pruning
Feed your Alocasia Polly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce feeding during the fall and winter when the plant's growth slows. Pruning is generally minimal, involving the removal of yellowing or dead leaves to maintain the plant's appearance and health.
Propagation, Cleaning, and Common Issues
Propagate Polly Alocasia by division during repotting. Gently separate the rhizomes and transplant the sections into individual pots. Keep the leaves clean by wiping them with a damp cloth to remove dust and allow for better light absorption. Common issues include leaf browning from low humidity, yellowing leaves from overwatering, and issues with pests, such as spider mites and aphids. Regularly inspect your plant and treat any pests promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Alocasia Polly: Placement, Companion & Alternative Plants
The variegated Alocasia Polly, with its dramatic foliage and distinctive leaf shape, makes a stunning focal point in any indoor garden. Here’s how to integrate this plant into your home decor and some plant companions and alternatives to consider.
Best Locations & Uses
- Its relatively small size makes the Alocasia Elephant Ear plant perfect for compact living spaces and cozy offices.
- This plant is ideal for more experienced indoor gardeners.
- Due to its toxicity to pets, it's best suited for households without animals.
- With its exotic appearance, it's an excellent choice for creating a tropical vibe in any interior or outdoors.
Companion Plants
To complement the striking appearance of Alocasia Polly, consider pairing it with these companion plants:
- Split Leaf Philodendron (Monstera deliciosa): The Split Leaf Philodendron features large, fenestrated leaves and it thrives in similar indoor conditions.
- ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia): With its glossy, dark green leaves, the ZZ Plant offers a striking contrast; its easy-care needs make it a great addition to any interior.
- Philodendron Birkin (Philodendron 'Birkin'): The Philodendron Birkin’s unique variegated leaves with white pinstripes add a touch of elegance; this philodendron can thrive alongside Alocasia Polly in moderate light.
Alternative Plants
If you're looking for pet-friendly alternatives to Alocasia Polly, consider these beautiful options:
- Peacock Plant (Calathea roseopicta): Known for its stunning patterned leaves, the Peacock Plant is non-toxic to pets and tolerates low-light conditions.
- Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum): A hardy and versatile plant with arching, variegated leaves, the Spider Plant is perfect for hanging baskets or pots.
- Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata): The lush Boston Fern is not only a great air purifier but also pet-friendly, making it ideal for adding greenery to any indoor space.
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Transform your space with the striking beauty and unique charm of the Alocasia Polly for sale from Lively Root!