Aglaonema, often called the Chinese Evergreen, is a forgiving and attractive houseplant that adapts to a wide range of indoor light conditions—even a dim corner. With dozens of cultivars, these plants display large tropical leaves and a variety of colors from silvery green to deep red and bright pink. Their resilience makes them an excellent choice for busy or forgetful plant owners and anyone seeking a low-maintenance indoor green. In our experience, they’ve required very little fuss.
We bought two aglaonema plants to sit on top of our daughter’s closet. It can be hard to identify varieties precisely, but we believe one is an Aglaonema Silver (right) and the other is either a Candy Cane or Princess Silver Queen (left).
Aglaonema Quick Facts
Key points to know about aglaonema at a glance:
- Latin name: Aglaonema is a genus that includes around 21 recognized species.
- Common names: Aglaonema, Chinese Evergreen
- Popular cultivars: Emerald Bay, Silver Queen, Maria, Pink Valentine
- Native to: Tropical regions of Southeast Asia, including parts of China
- Light: Thrives in medium to bright indirect light but tolerates low light
- Watering: Typically about every two weeks, or when the topsoil feels dry
- Soil: A well-draining potting mix such as one formulated for succulents, palms, or cacti
- Ideal humidity: Average indoor humidity levels are usually sufficient
- Ideal temperature: Prefers warm indoor temperatures, approximately 70°F–90°F
- Cold hardiness: Best kept indoors in most climates; not frost-hardy
What is an Aglaonema?
Aglaonema refers to more than 20 species of evergreen perennials native to tropical forests in Southeast Asia. They earned the common name Chinese Evergreen due to part of their native range. Favored as houseplants, aglaonemas are popular because they tolerate a broad range of indoor environments and are available in many cultivated varieties that display different leaf shapes, variegation, and striking colors.
These plants are also known for their air-cleaning qualities. Research has shown that certain indoor plants can help reduce common airborne chemicals like formaldehyde, making aglaonema a pleasing and potentially healthy addition to indoor spaces.
How to Care for an Aglaonema
Most aglaonema varieties share similar care needs. Follow these practical guidelines to keep your plant healthy and attractive.
Light
Aglaonemas prefer medium to bright indirect light but will tolerate lower-light situations better than many other houseplants. Brighter light can encourage faster growth and more vivid variegation; darker-leafed varieties handle low light best. Varieties with pink, cream, or pale green markings perform better with more light. Avoid prolonged direct sun, which can scorch the foliage.
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. During the active growing season (spring and summer) watering about every other week is common, with less frequent watering in winter. Always use a pot with drainage holes and a well-draining mix to prevent root rot. Aglaonemas can tolerate brief dry spells, so occasional missed waterings are not usually disastrous. In general, it’s safer to err on the side of underwatering than overwatering.
Soil
Use a well-draining potting mix and a pot with good drainage. Standard potting soil works well when amended with perlite, peat moss, orchid bark, or coarse sand to improve drainage and aeration. Some growers add a layer of coarse rock or lava rock at the pot bottom to reduce the chance of roots sitting in excess water.
Temperature and Humidity
Average indoor temperatures and humidity typically suit aglaonema plants. They prefer warmth and benefit from higher humidity, though most households provide adequate moisture for healthy growth. In dry winter months, consider a pebble tray or humidifier to raise humidity locally. Keep plants away from cold drafts and air vents that produce chilly airflow.
Fertilizer
Feed lightly during spring and summer with a balanced houseplant fertilizer, usually at half the recommended strength, about once a month. This helps replenish nutrients used during active growth without encouraging excessive, weak growth.
How to Propagate Aglaonema
Aglaonema can be propagated to produce new plants. The most common and reliable method is stem cuttings potted into soil.
Step 1: Take a healthy cutting
Using a clean, sharp tool, cut a healthy stem close to the soil line. Aim for a cutting with two to three leaves. Cutting at an angle increases the surface area for rooting.
Step 2: Plant in well-draining soil
Place the cutting a couple of inches deep in a small pot filled with well-draining soil. Remove any lower leaves so the stem can be planted securely. Optionally, you can use a rooting powder to encourage faster root development.
Step 3: Keep soil consistently moist
Set the pot in medium to bright indirect light and keep the soil moist by misting or light watering. Roots typically form over several weeks; aglaonema can be slower to root than some other houseplants, so be patient. Once established, move the new plant to a slightly larger pot if needed.
Common Problems
We haven’t faced many problems with our aglaonema plants, but these are typical issues to watch for:
- Yellowing leaves: Often a sign of overwatering. Allow the soil to dry and reduce watering frequency. If roots are rotting, repot with fresh, well-draining soil and trim damaged roots. Ensure the pot has drainage holes.
- Sunburned or spotted leaves: Caused by too much direct sun. Move the plant to a location with indirect light.
- Brown leaf tips or edges: Could result from direct sun exposure or from chemicals in tap water like fluoride and chlorine. Try filtered, distilled, or collected rainwater. If the problem persists, inspect for pests or root issues.
- Pests: Common pests include aphids, fungus gnats, mealybugs, and spider mites. Look for damaged foliage, wilting, or fine webbing. Many infestations can be managed by removing pests by hand and treating the plant with horticultural oils or insecticidal soaps.
Other Aglaonema FAQs
Are aglaonema toxic to cats and dogs?
Aglaonema contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause mouth and digestive irritation if chewed or ingested by pets or humans. Symptoms are usually mild but can be uncomfortable. Keep these plants out of reach of curious pets and children, and consult a veterinarian if you suspect ingestion.
What types of aglaonema are there?
There are around 21 recognized species in the Aglaonema genus and hundreds of cultivated varieties. Common cultivars include Silver Bay, Silver Queen, White Rajah, Maria, and Pink Valentine, each offering different leaf patterns and colors.
Why is it called a Chinese Evergreen Plant?
Aglaonema are native to parts of Southeast Asia, including regions of China, and are perennial evergreen plants that retain their leaves year-round—hence the common name Chinese Evergreen.
More Plant Guides
If you’d like additional care guidance, there are many helpful resources covering air-purifying plants, pothos varieties, snake plants, fiddle leaf figs, and more. Exploring these guides can help you choose complementary plants and improve your overall indoor gardening skills.