Named for J. van der Poll, mayor of Amsterdam.

Perennial, rhizomatous, stems erect. Leaves along the stem, spirally arranged. Inflorescence terminal, paniculate. Flowers numerous, symmetrical. Sepals free. Petals free, subequal, white or blue. Stamens 6, all fertile or 3 reduced to sterile stamens, filaments smooth. Fruit a nut.

Grown for the attractive leaves and habit.

Cuttings

Erect stems, terminal panicles of white flowers and blue fruits.

About 26 species native to SE Asia. 2 species are endemic to coastal Queensland and New South Wales.

Source: Conran, J. (2005). Commelinaceae. In: Spencer, R.. Horticultural Flora of South-eastern Australia. Volume 5. Flowering plants. Monocotyledons. The identification of garden and cultivated plants. University of New South Wales Press.