Alocasia polly Aurea

### **Alocasia Polly Aurea Care Tips**

**Alocasia Polly Aurea**, also known as the **Golden Alocasia Polly**, is a rare and striking variety of Alocasia known for its golden-yellow, lime-green foliage and contrasting dark veins. This plant’s vivid coloration makes it a favorite among collectors. Like most Alocasia varieties, it requires specific care to thrive and maintain its beautiful foliage.

#### 1. **Light Requirements**
- **Bright, indirect light**: Alocasia Polly Aurea thrives in bright, indirect light. Too much direct sunlight can burn the delicate leaves, but insufficient light may cause the leaves to lose their vivid coloration and slow down growth.
- **Filtered sunlight**: A spot near an east- or north-facing window is ideal, or you can provide filtered light with sheer curtains.

#### 2. **Watering**
- **Moderate watering**: Keep the soil evenly moist, but not soggy. Water the plant when the top 2-3 cm of soil is dry. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot, which Alocasias are particularly susceptible to.
- **Well-draining soil**: Ensure that your pot has drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom, and use a well-draining potting mix to allow excess water to escape.

#### 3. **Temperature & Humidity**
- **Warm temperatures**: Alocasia Polly Aurea prefers temperatures between 18-27°C (65-80°F). It’s sensitive to cold temperatures, so keep it away from drafts, cold windows, or air conditioning units.
- **High humidity**: As a tropical plant, Alocasia Polly Aurea thrives in environments with high humidity (60% or higher). If the air is too dry, consider using a humidifier, misting the leaves regularly, or placing the plant on a pebble tray filled with water to boost humidity.

#### 4. **Soil Requirements**
- **Well-draining, airy soil**: Use a potting mix designed for tropical plants or aroids, which typically includes a blend of peat, perlite, and orchid bark. This mix will retain some moisture while ensuring that excess water drains away, preventing soggy roots.
- **Slightly acidic soil**: A soil pH of 5.5-6.5 is ideal for Alocasia Polly Aurea.

#### 5. **Fertilizing**
- **Feed during growing season**: Fertilize your Alocasia Polly Aurea every 4-6 weeks with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during spring and summer. Dilute the fertilizer to half-strength to avoid overfeeding, which can harm the plant.
- **Reduce feeding in winter**: During fall and winter, when the plant’s growth slows, reduce feeding to once every two months or stop entirely until growth picks up again in spring.

#### 6. **Pruning & Maintenance**
- **Prune as needed**: Remove any yellowing or damaged leaves to keep the plant looking tidy and healthy. Alocasias naturally shed older leaves as new ones emerge, so don’t be alarmed if you see the occasional yellow leaf.
- **Monitor for pests**: Keep an eye out for common pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. Alocasias are somewhat prone to these pests, so regular inspections are important. If you notice any infestations, treat the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

#### 7. **Propagation**
- **Rhizome division**: Alocasia Polly Aurea can be propagated by dividing the rhizomes. When repotting the plant, carefully separate the plantlets from the main rhizome and plant them in their own pots with fresh soil. This method is typically the easiest and most effective way to propagate Alocasia varieties.

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### **Background History of Alocasia Polly Aurea**

Alocasia Polly Aurea is a cultivar of **Alocasia amazonica**, often referred to as "Polly," which is known for its striking arrowhead-shaped leaves with dark green foliage and bold white or light veins. The **Aurea** variety features vibrant yellow-green leaves that set it apart from the more commonly seen Alocasia Polly.

- **Origin**: Like other Alocasias, the Polly Aurea originates from tropical regions of Southeast Asia. While its exact breeding history is unclear, it is likely a result of selective cultivation to enhance its vibrant golden coloration. Its parent plant, Alocasia amazonica, is itself a hybrid between **Alocasia sanderiana** and **Alocasia longiloba**.

- **Unique foliage**: The standout feature of Alocasia Polly Aurea is its lime-green or golden-yellow foliage, which provides a bold contrast to the dark veins that run through the leaves. This coloration is uncommon in Alocasias, making the Polly Aurea highly coveted by plant collectors.

- **Growth habit**: Like most Alocasia varieties, Polly Aurea grows from a rhizome and tends to produce upright leaves that can reach up to 30-60 cm in height. As it matures, the plant can develop larger leaves and may produce new shoots from its rhizomes.

- **Dormancy**: Alocasias, including Polly Aurea, may enter a period of dormancy in cooler months or when environmental conditions change (such as reduced light or lower humidity). During dormancy, the plant may lose some or all of its leaves, but this is normal. With proper care, it will regrow new leaves in the following growing season.

- **Popularity and rarity**: Due to its unique coloration and rarity, Alocasia Polly Aurea is highly prized among collectors. Its vibrant yellow-green foliage makes it a standout piece in any indoor plant collection, and it’s often considered a “statement” plant for those looking to add a splash of color to their space.

In conclusion, **Alocasia Polly Aurea** is a visually stunning plant that adds a pop of bright, tropical color to any home. Its relatively easy care makes it accessible to both novice and experienced plant lovers, though it does require consistent attention to humidity, light, and watering to thrive. With the right conditions, this rare beauty can grow into a magnificent addition to any plant collection.