Alocasia Polly - Elephant's Ear

The Alocasia 'Polly' is the best-known variety among alocasias with dark, veined, highly contrasting leaves with a glossy and decidedly exotic appearance. This variety of Elephant's Ear has disappointed some, as its widespread availability on the market has not always been accompanied by adequate cultivation advice, without which it can prove to be somewhat temperamental. It's time to rediscover it by getting to know it better: its thick, almost black-green foliage, highlighted by light green to silvery veins, requires high ambient humidity, bright indirect light, and a slightly moist, well-draining substrate. This compact, elegant plant is perfect for small spaces.

The Alocasia 'Polly' belongs to the Araceae family, which includes many tropical plants with spectacular foliage. This horticultural cultivar stands out for its modest dimensions: at maturity, it reaches a height and spread of about 30 to 45 cm. The plant has an upright habit and slow growth. Its broad and lance-shaped, pointed, leaves have a glossy texture and a deep blackish-green hue that contrasts with light veins. Although flowering is rather rare indoors, this variety occasionally produces small white spathes of little ornamental value. Native to the tropical undergrowth of Borneo, the botanical species naturally grows in rich, well-drained soil under a dense, humid cover. These conditions explain its specific needs: filtered light, high humidity (around 60-70%), and a constant temperature between 15 and 27°C. Its leaves and stems contain toxic compounds that can cause irritation if ingested.

The Alocasia 'Polly' is a plant that has caught the eye of many enthusiasts, and rightly so. Highly original, its lanceolate, remarkably contrasting leaves are strikingly exotic and refined. It fits just as well in a minimalist style where it becomes a focal point as in a tropical setting where it enjoys appropriate ambient humidity, surrounded by its peers. Pair it with plants that have similar needs, such as other Araceae like Monstera or Philodendron.