Alocasia Amazonica vs Polly: Why I Prefer Polly Over Alocasia Amazonica?
Alocasia Amazonica and Alocasia Polly are two coveted choices for indoor gardeners seeking bold, tropical foliage. Both flaunt dramatically shaped leaves, but differences in size, texture, and presence set them apart.
So, what are the differences between Alocasia Amazonica and Alocasia Polly? Alocasia Amazonica has larger leaves with more prominent veins and can grow slightly taller than Alocasia Polly. But, Alocasia Polly often requires easygoing care to grow decently.
Join me and keep on reading this article as I’ll come up with more subtle details about this matter.
Table of Contents
Alocasia Amazonica vs Polly: Background and Origins
Alocasias are tropical perennials prized for their jungle-like arrowhead leaves. They hail from Asian and Australian rainforests. There are over 70 species, but Amazonica and Polly are two of the most popular.
Alocasia Amazonica is a naturally occurring specimen native to tropical South America, especially the Amazon basin, hence its name. It was introduced to the houseplant world in the 1970s.
Alocasia Polly is a hybrid bred in Florida, likely from Alocasia longiloba. It emerged onto the scene in the 1980s and remains one of the most ubiquitous Alocasia varieties today.
Both showcase the diversity found within this plant genus.
All Differential Points Between Alocasia Amazonica And Polly
Well, first things first, I’ll try to cover every basic trait of raising these Alocasia variants. I’ll try to find the features and I hope, all the differences and similarities as well, will come simultaneously. Let’s take a look at the discussions that are placed below.
1. Mature Plant Size
One of the biggest differences between Amazonica and Polly is their eventual mature size. Let’s take a look.
- Amazonica grows substantially larger, reaching mature heights of 5 to 6 feet tall and spreading 3 to 5 feet wide. Its huge stature makes it a bold architectural element.
- Polly is far more compact, typically growing 2 to 3 feet tall and 1 to 2 feet wide when fully mature. This makes it better suited for tabletops and smaller spaces.
So Amazonica becomes a prominent feature plant, while Polly is more of an accent piece.
2. Leaf Size and Shape
In addition to overall size, the leaves of each variety have distinct dimensions:
- Amazonica has very large, elongated leaves that can reach 18 to 27 inches long and 6 to 12 inches wide. The arrowhead shape is more exaggerated.
- Polly’s leaves are moderately sized, averaging 8 to 14 inches long by 4 to 7 inches wide. The leaf shape appears more diminutive.
Once again, Amazonica makes an exclusive statement with its expansive leaves, while Polly offers a delicate grace.
3. Leaf Color and Texture
While the basic leaf color is similar, some more subtle differences emerge upon closer inspection:
- Amazonica typically displays very dark green leaves with bold, creamy white veining that pops vividly against the deeper background. The leaf surface has a semi-glossy sheen.
- Polly exhibits a richer green background color, occasionally with a slight blue-green undertone. The veins are bright white but slightly more understated. The leaves have a matte finish.
In terms of texture, Amazonica has slightly thicker, more rigid leaves vs. the thinner, flexible feel of Polly’s foliage.
4. Growth Pattern
These Alocasias share a similar upright, clumping growth habit from the rhizome root structure.
- Amazonica grows as a dense clump, with new stems and leaves packed closely together as they emerge from the soil. The overall shape is more rounded and full.
- Polly exhibits a slightly more open and arching growth pattern. Stems and leaves tend to spread out more loosely. The clump shape appears more vase-like.
Both create lush, full-potted specimens, but I guess, Amazonica is the ultimate in compact density.
5. Ideal Growing Conditions
As tropical rainforest natives, both Alocasias thrive in:
- Bright, indirect light – Avoid direct sun which scorches leaves. A northern exposure is ideal.
- High humidity – 50% or higher. Mist leaves and use pebble trays to increase moisture around the plant.
- Warm temperatures – Between 70°F to 80°F. Keep away from drafty areas.
- Moist soil – Allow to dry slightly between waterings but don’t allow prolonged dryness.
Providing these fundamental conditions satisfies the needs of both varieties for lush, vigorous growth.
Related article: 82 Different Types of Alocasia
6. Special Care Tips
Amazonica and Polly share basic care needs, but some small differences affect cultivation:
- Amazonica’s faster, more vigorous growth requires slightly more frequent water and feeding to look its best.
- Polly is more forgiving if drying out a bit between waterings due to its slower growth pace.
- Amazonica can tolerate more light exposure without leaf burn thanks to its thicker foliage. Polly needs more shade.
- Amazonica is quick to produce pups for propagation. Polly propagates slower from rhizome divisions.
Overall though, they both thrive with the same thoughtful care. Amazonica just needs a bit more of everything.
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7. Displaying Amazonica and Polly
Displaying both the plants aren’t identical, but share some similarities.
- Let Amazonica take center stage on its own as a standalone specimen plant. Its huge leaves command attention.
- Polly shines on tabletops, bookshelves, and windowsills. Position it near seating areas so its foliage can be admired up close.
- Complement them with other oversized leaves like Monstera, Philodendrons, and Palms for a tropical indoor jungle.
- Use either variety to add bold textures spilling over counters, desks, and cabinets.
- Pair Amazonica and Polly together – Amazonica’s huge leaves play against Polly’s elegant smaller size.
8. Availability
Some argue that “Polly” and “Amazonica” are distinct varieties, with “Polly” being easier to grow indoors. However, this isn’t always true. “Amazonica” was the original, appearing in homes in the 1950s. “Polly” came later when a small variation of “Amazonica” was discovered.
The popularity of Alocasias has increased production and availability:
- Amazonica and Polly are now widely sold at garden centers, nurseries, hardware stores, and online plant retailers.
- Prices range from $15 to $50 for young starter plants depending on retailer. Larger specimens cost more.
- Amazonica tends to have better year-round availability, while Polly supplies dwindle outside spring and summer.
- Rare specialty varieties may still only be found through plant enthusiasts online or in specialty greenhouses.
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Let’s Find a Suitable Match
It’s quite difficult to choose which one to pick. But, ask me and I’m gonna answer the Polly. I would likely select Alocasia Polly for the following reasons.
- Alocasia Polly has a more compact size that is better suited for my limited indoor space. Its petite stature makes it ideal for shelves and tabletops where larger plants may overwhelm the area.
- I prefer the slightly more delicate appearance of Alocasia Polly’s foliage. Its leaves with subtle ivory veining provide an elegant and graceful look that I find very appealing.
- Alocasia Polly seems easier to care for in my environment. Its ability to tolerate drier periods between waterings makes it a bit more forgiving for my occasional lapses in watering consistency.
- Alocasia Polly’s slower, more manageable growth habit is preferable for me as a newer indoor plant owner still learning the ropes. I may consider the larger Amazonica in the future once I gain more experience.
- From an availability and cost perspective, Polly tends to be more readily available year-round at prices that fit my budget better.
To do proper care, here is the video for you!
Conclusion
So, putting everything in a nutshell, while their care needs align, they’re different in terms of mature dimensions and leaf detailing. All these traits give each variety a unique look and appeal. Whether you’re seeking to make a bold jungle vibe or add delicate tropical charm, these exotic elephant ears deliver satisfaction.