Alocasia Polly, also known as the African Mask Plant, is a striking tropical houseplant admired for its dramatic, arrow-shaped leaves with bold white veins. This plant adds an exotic flair to any indoor space, making it a favorite among plant enthusiasts.
Common Names
- Alocasia Polly
- African Mask Plant
- Elephant Ear Plant
Botanical Classification
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Order: Alismatales
- Family: Araceae
- Genus: Alocasia
- Species: Alocasia amazonica
Native Habitat
Alocasia Polly originates from the tropical rainforests of Southeast Asia. It thrives in warm, humid conditions under dappled sunlight, making it well-suited for indoor cultivation in similar environments.
Historical and Cultural Significance
Known for its unique foliage, Alocasia Polly has become a symbol of exotic beauty in modern interiors. Its architectural leaves make it a popular choice in tropical-themed decor and houseplant collections worldwide.
Uses and Popularity
Alocasia Polly is primarily grown as an ornamental plant. Its bold, eye-catching leaves make it a centerpiece in indoor spaces, while its manageable size makes it ideal for apartments and offices.
Conservation Status
Alocasia Polly is widely propagated and not considered endangered. Its popularity ensures its continued availability in nurseries and garden centers worldwide.
Description
Physical Characteristics
Alocasia Polly features glossy, dark green leaves with prominent white veins. The leaves are arrow-shaped and have a wavy texture along the edges, adding to their dramatic appearance. The plant grows upright, creating a sculptural effect.
Growth Habit
This plant has a compact growth habit and typically reaches a height of 1 to 2 feet (30-60 cm) indoors. It thrives in bright, indirect light and high humidity, mimicking its natural tropical habitat.
Popular Alocasia Varieties
Alocasia Dragon Scale
- Known for its textured, emerald-green leaves resembling dragon scales.
Alocasia Silver Dragon
- Features silvery leaves with dark green veins, perfect for bright indoor spaces.
Alocasia Black Velvet
- Compact variety with deep green, velvety leaves and white veins.
Alocasia Macrorrhiza
- Large, glossy leaves that make a bold statement in any space.
Alocasia Frydek
- Velvety green leaves with bright white veins, ideal for indirect light.
Care Guide
Light Requirements
Alocasia Polly thrives in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves. If natural light is insufficient, consider using grow lights. Learn More
Watering Needs
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Ensure the pot has good drainage to prevent root rot. Overwatering is a common issue, so avoid letting the plant sit in water. Indoor Plant Watering
Soil Preferences
Use a well-draining potting mix with added perlite or orchid bark for aeration. Slightly acidic soil is ideal for Alocasia Polly. Indoor Potting Mix
Humidity
This plant thrives in high humidity. Use a humidifier or place it near a pebble tray with water to maintain humidity levels.
Common Pests
Spider Mites
Spider mites are common in dry conditions and can cause stippling on leaves. Increase humidity and treat infestations with insecticidal soap. Learn More
Mealybugs
Mealybugs appear as white, cottony masses. Remove them with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Learn More
Fungus Gnats
Fungus gnats thrive in overly moist soil. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings and use sticky traps for the adults. Learn More
FAQs
Why are the leaves of my Alocasia Polly turning yellow?
Yellowing leaves can indicate overwatering or insufficient light. Check the soil moisture and ensure the plant receives bright, indirect light.
Can I grow Alocasia Polly in low light?
No, Alocasia Polly requires bright, indirect light for healthy growth. Low light can cause the plant to lose its vibrant appearance.
How often should I repot my Alocasia Polly?
Repot the plant every 1-2 years or when it becomes root-bound. Choose a pot slightly larger than the current one to allow for growth.
Is Alocasia Polly safe for pets?
No, Alocasia Polly is toxic to pets if ingested. Keep it out of reach of cats and dogs.
How to take care of Alocasia Polly
Light: Medium - Bright
Light: Medium - Bright
Alocasia Polly thrives in bright light but can also tolerate medium light conditions. An ideal spot with medium light in your home would be positioned between the middle of a room and a regular-sized window. It's important to note that the growth of plants is influenced by the amount of light they receive.
Sun: Indirect
Sun: Indirect
Alocasia Polly should not be exposed to direct sunlight, although it can tolerate early morning or late evening sun. Filtered sunlight through a sheer curtain is ideal, as most homes provide indirect sunlight. Optimal placement for Alocasia Polly is in a bright location where it receives indirect light for the majority of the day, avoiding direct sun exposure.
Water: When half dry
Water: When half dry
Alocasia Polly should be watered when the top half of the soil feels dry to the touch, typically occurring every week in a typical indoor environment. However, this schedule may vary depending on factors such as the season, environmental conditions, and lighting. To avoid overwatering, it's best to err on the side of underwatering or perform a soil moisture check before watering again.
Humidity: High
Humidity: High
Alocasia Polly thrives in environments with high humidity levels. Consider misting them daily or as frequently as feasible to replicate their preferred conditions. Additionally, placing them near a humidifier can help maintain adequate moisture levels. While they can tolerate lower humidity levels, inadequate moisture may result in dry, crispy, or yellow-edged leaves.
Pet Friendly: Caution
Pet Friendly: Caution
Alocasia Polly is considered moderately toxic and may cause adverse reactions if ingested by pets. Therefore, it's advisable to keep it out of reach of animals, as is generally recommended for all houseplants. The severity of the reaction will vary depending on the amount of the plant consumed. If your pet typically does not show interest in consuming plants, Alocasia Polly can still be a suitable addition to your home.
Pro Tip
Pro Tip
Alocasia Polly, commonly known as the African Mask Plant, belongs to the Elephant Ear family and originates from subtropical regions of Asia and Australia. Characterized by its striking dark purple/green leaves shaped like arrowheads, adorned with thick, creamy veins, this plant adds a touch of exotic beauty to any space. Despite being a dwarf variety, its leaves can grow up to 30 cm long, creating a dramatic presence. It's essential to note that Alocasia plants are toxic to humans and animals and should not be ingested.
Delivery Policy for Plant Condition
Delivery Policy for Plant Condition
"I have only received part of my order. What to do?
No worries if you've only got part of your order! Our plants come from different nurseries and might arrive in separate shipments, typically 1-2 days apart. It's all part of ensuring your green friends reach you in top-notch condition!
If you do not receive the remaining packages within 48 hours contact support at info@mygreenscape.ca
What is the Life Time Support?
Absolutely! Lifetime support means you can count on us whenever you have questions or uncertainties about your plant. Whether you're puzzled by its behavior or just want to ensure it's thriving, we're here for you. Connect with us on Instagram @mygreenscapeto or shoot us an email at support@mygreenscape.ca.
When it comes to our guarantee for plants shipped with standard or express, rest assured that we offer a 30-day happy healthy plant guarantee on all such shipments. This ensures that your plants are covered for 30 days after delivery, giving you peace of mind regarding their condition. If you have any concerns within this period, feel free to reach out to us for assistance.
For further details, please visit our Local Delivery, Store Pickup, Standard Shipping Guide Page.
What to expect
What to expect
Your plant will arrive in a standard nursery pot, typically 0.5" - 1" smaller than the stated size to seamlessly fit into your chosen decorative pot. Washable Paper Planter Bags are available for separate purchase.
Just like nature intended, each plant is unique, showcasing natural variations in size, shape, and characteristics. Our commitment is to deliver a plant that closely resembles the one featured on our website, matching your chosen size, and with the potential to thrive happily in your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Certainly! If you're pondering about ordering plants online, you're not alone. We've compiled the most frequently asked questions. Check out our FAQ section here for quick answers! Happy planting!
Plant & Pot Size Chart
Plant & Pot Size Chart
Choosing the right pot size for your plants can be a daunting task, especially if you're new to gardening. But fear not! Our pot sizes chart can help you find the perfect match for your plants, ensuring they have enough space to grow and thrive. With our guide, you'll be able to confidently choose the right pot size and plant variety for your gardening needs.
Plant Pot Size Guide.
Extra Small | 7-10 cm | 2.5 - 3 inches |
Small | 11-12 cm | 3.5 - 4 inches |
Medium | 14-17 cm | 5 - 6 inches |
Large | 19-21 cm | 8 - 10 inches |
Extra Large | 24-27 cm | 12 - 14 inches |
All sizes are specified in product details.
Your Complete Guide to Pot Sizes: What Size Should You Choose?
When selecting a pot for your plant, it's important to find the right size. But with all the different options out there, how do you know which one is best? We're here to help!
MyGreenscape's pot sizes chart is a great resource for finding your perfect fit. Our easy-to-read chart takes out all the guesswork and helps you quickly choose the right size for your plant.
Smaller pots are best for seedlings or small plants just starting out. These tend to be shallow but wide, allowing enough room for the roots of the young plant but not too much where they get overcrowded. Medium-sized pots are ideal when your plant has grown from its infancy and is ready for more space. These are deeper and wider than small pots, so that it can accommodate larger root systems - making sure your plant gets enough nourishment while still giving it breathing room. Large pots are top choice if you have an established plant in need of lots of space - think trees and large shrubs! The spacious depth and width allow plenty of room for deep root systems without struggling for air or light.
No matter what size you choose, MyGreenscape has got you covered, with our pot sizes chart guaranteeing you find the perfect fit every time!
Winter Shipping Protection
Winter Shipping Protection
We take extra care with each package during the colder months. For destinations experiencing cold weather, we provide insulated packaging and heat packs as needed to protect your plants from freezing temperatures. With Winter Shipping Protection, your plants are equipped to arrive safe and sound, even in winter’s chill.
Care Guide
Care Guide
Explore essential care tips. check out our Comprehensive Resource for Indoor Plant Care.
WATERING MADE EASY
Check soil moisture before watering and use a potting mix that drains well. It’s the secret to healthy, happy plants!
The Alocasia Polly is so charming. Its compact size makes it perfect for small spaces. Delighted with my purchase!
Love my Alocasia Polly! It's a resilient beauty and the packaging ensured it arrived in perfect condition