How to Care for Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)

Chinese evergreen is one of the indoor plants for those who want to give their space a touch of natural luxury. Native to the lush understory of tropical and subtropical Asia,  this plant offers you a distinctive palette of foliage patterns, from dark green to diverse blends of green foliage, silver, red and even pink.

In addition to its aesthetic appeal, Chinese evergreen also offers you a plant that thrives even in less than ideal conditions, such as low light and irregular watering, making it a superior choice. Perfect for both beginner plant enthusiasts and seasoned gardeners.

Chinese evergreen plant description

Characteristic	Description
Common Name	Chinese evergreen, Philippine evergreen, Poison Dart Plant
Botanical Name	Aglaonema commutatum
Family	Araceae
Plant Type	Herbaceous, perennial
Mature Size	1–3 ft. tall, 1–3 ft. wide
Sun Exposure	Partial, full
Soil Type	Well-drained
Soil pH	Acidic
Bloom Time	Spring, summer
Flower Color	White
Hardiness Zones	10–12 (USDA)
Native Area	Asia
Toxicity	Toxic to dogs and cats

Chinese evergreen plants, scientifically known as Aglaonema, are tropical perennials that are not classified as needled conifers. Originating in the humid and shaded understoreys of Asian rainforests, these plants have been cultivated into several cultivars, each possessing its distinct aesthetic appeal.

Their popularity as houseplants can be attributed to their large, narrow and glossy oval leaves. These leaves, present on short stems, come in various color patterns and hues.  While some may sport deep green colors, others have patterns ranging from silver to red, adding a splash of personality to interior spaces.

On reaching maturity, which may take several years given their slow-growing nature, Aglaonemas produce flowers. These flowers typically emerge in spring or summer, serving as a testament to the plant’s age and health. Although the flowers are a notable feature, the primary allure of the Chinese evergreen lies in its foliage, making it a favored choice for indoor settings.

Despite their ornamental beauty, there’s a significant cautionary note for households with pets. Chinese evergreen contain compounds that are toxic to both cats and dogs. Ingestion can lead to symptoms like oral irritation, vomiting and difficulty in swallowing.

In terms of care, Chinese evergreens thrive in indirect light, consistent moisture, and warm temperatures. Their adaptability to a variety of indoor conditions,  combined with their attractive appearance, underscores their widespread adoption in homes and offices. When potted and maintained appropriately, they can provide year-round greenery, enhancing the aesthetic and ambient quality of indoor spaces.

Types of Chinese evergreen

Chinese evergreens include a diverse group of cultivars that have different leaf designs and colors. Although they all belong to the same genus, these cultivars come in a myriad of shapes to satisfy the diverse tastes of gardening enthusiasts. Here are some notable types:

1. Aglaonema ‘Silver Queen’: One of the most popular cultivars, this variety boasts of its silvery-green leaves marked with a blend of dark green colors. Its elegant appearance has made it a staple in many indoor gardening settings.
2. Aglaonema ‘Red Gold’: As the name suggests, this cultivar presents a vibrant combination of red and gold hues. The leaves typically display a red background with dashes of yellow or gold, adding a rich splash of color to any interior.
3. Aglaonema ‘Emerald Bay’:  This variety exhibits a blend of dark and light green on its leaves, creating a subtle yet appealing contrast, reminiscent of the hues found in bay areas.
4. Aglaonema ‘Cutlass’: Recognizable for its long, narrow leaves with silver-gray markings, the ‘Cutlass’ variety brings a unique shape and pattern to the table.
5. Aglaonema ‘Diamond Bay’: With its light green and silver-hued leaves, this cultivar exudes a sophisticated charm. The leaf patterns resemble the sparkling facets of a diamond.
6. Aglaonema ‘Crete’: This cultivar stands out with its deep green leaves accentuated by bright pink veins and edges. The contrast between the green and pink makes it a visually striking variety.
7. Aglaonema ‘Maria’: This variety is known for its dark green leaves, characterized by lighter green patterns. It’s a classic choice for those preferring a more traditional appearance.
8. Aglaonema ‘Golden Bay’: This type boasts a combination of green and gold hues. The leaves predominantly present a green background with bright gold centers, making it a radiant addition to any collection.

LotusBuddhas would like to emphasize that each of these Aglaonema cultivars is uniquely suited for indoor environments,  given their ability to thrive in indirect light and their adaptability to a range of humidity conditions. Their diverse appearances allow enthusiasts to select varieties that resonate with their aesthetic preferences, making the Chinese evergreen a versatile and favored choice for interior plantings.

Chinese evergreen care

For those in pursuit of an elegant yet effortlessly maintained houseplant, the Chinese evergreen emerges as a prime choice. Esteemed for its minimalistic care regimen, this plant’s care principle revolves around a pivotal aspect of its appearance: the variegation of its leaves.

Specifically, a lighter variegation signifies a higher sunlight requirement. By grasping this correlation, you can adeptly cater to the specific needs of their Chinese evergreen.  Furthermore, maintaining a warm and humid environment will optimize its growth. In return, this plant offers stability, longevity, and the assurance of a consistent size, eliminating concerns of frequent repotting.

Light

Varieties with darker green foliage can flourish even in conditions close to shade. Conversely, those exhibiting variegated leaves demand a heightened level of brightness. However,  it is imperative that you exercise caution by ensuring that none of the Chinese evergreen varieties, regardless of their specific leaf coloration, are subjected to direct sunlight. The intensity of such unfiltered rays can irreparably damage the plant’s sensitive leaves. By adhering to this guidance, you can ensure optimal vitality and preserve the aesthetic appeal of your Chinese evergreen.

Water

Achieving the optimal moisture balance is paramount in the care of the Chinese evergreen. This plant thrives when its soil is consistently moist but devoid of waterlogging. To attain this equilibrium, you should irrigate the plant comprehensively, subsequently allowing the soil to undergo a drying period prior to the subsequent watering.

This regimen should be upheld throughout the spring, summer and fall months. As winter approaches, it’s advisable to reduce the watering frequency. However, you ensure the plant’s soil never reaches a state of complete desiccation.

Soil

While the Chinese evergreen exhibits considerable tolerance towards diverse soil types, an ideal medium comprises well-drained, slightly acidic potting soil. Should you observe excessive water retention in your selected soil, it is advisable to incorporate elements such as sand or perlite to enhance drainage efficacy.  Moreover, you house your Chinese evergreen in a container equipped with sufficient drainage holes at the base. This will not only ensure optimal growth conditions but also preclude potential root rot from stagnant water.

Temperature and Humidity

In terms of temperature and humidity, meticulous consideration is required to ensure the vitality of the Chinese evergreen. These plants possess an aversion to cold drafts and environments with temperatures falling below approximately 70 degrees Fahrenheit.  Thus, it is imperative that you strategically position your Chinese evergreen in locales devoid of cold exposure, such as proximity to windows or vents introducing cool air. An environment boasting warmth is unequivocally preferred.

Furthermore, the Chinese evergreen demonstrates a predilection for elevated humidity levels. While some horticulturists perceive it primarily as a greenhouse plant due to this proclivity, replicating these conditions within indoor settings can yield equivalent success.

Endeavoring to emulate the balmy and moisture-rich ambience of a greenhouse, you might consider frequent misting to bolster surrounding humidity. Additionally, situating the plant in areas naturally prone to heightened humidity, such as kitchens or bathrooms, can be advantageous. For those residing in drier environments, it may be judicious to invest in a localized humidifier to maintain a constant and conducive humidity level proximate to plants.

Fertilizer

To optimize growth and vitality of Chinese evergreen, it is recommended that you administer a slow-release pellet or liquid fertilizer biannually,  specifically marking the commencement and culmination of its growth season. Adherence to the product’s label instructions for dosage is of paramount importance to ensure the appropriate nutrient delivery without risking over-fertilization. By diligently adopting this fertilization regimen, you can fortify the nutritional foundation, thereby bolstering the plant’s health and vigor.

Propagating Chinese evergreen

Propagating the Chinese evergreen is a meticulous process that offers enthusiasts an opportunity to cultivate new plants from an existing specimen.  Herein are two methods for effective propagation: utilizing stem cuttings and division during repotting. You have to remember that you initiate this procedure during mid-summer, capitalizing on the warmer temperatures conducive to propagation.

Propagating via Stem Cuttings:

1. Employing a sterilized and sharp cutting instrument, extract a stem segment from the parent plant, ensuring it measures several inches in length.
2. Administer rooting hormone to the base of the cutting, subsequently immersing it in a water-filled vessel situated in an area receiving indirect sunlight. Await root development, which typically manifests within a three to four-week timeframe.
3. Once roots have sufficiently formed, delicately transition the cutting to a container filled with well-draining potting soil, ensuring consistent moisture levels during the early stages.

Propagating through Division:

1. Commence by gently positioning the pot horizontally. Utilize a trowel to detach the soil adhering to the pot’s interior sides.  With caution, extricate both the plant and its soil.
2. Proceed to dislodge excess soil from the root system. With deliberate care, disentangle the roots. Recognizing the Chinese evergreen’s inclination for being somewhat root-bound, it is imperative to exercise patience and gentleness during this step.
3. Having isolated a viable clump, transplant it into a new pot equipped with well-draining potting soil.
4. In the ensuing weeks, bestow heightened moisture attention to both the primary plant and its newly divided counterpart, facilitating their transition and mitigating potential stress.

Potting and repotting Chinese evergreen

For optimal growth, you are advised to employ a standard peat-based potting mixture. To enhance drainage properties, incorporating additional elements such as sand or perlite is prudent.

While the choice of container material remains largely discretionary, prevalent practice indicates a penchant for decorative ceramic or clay pots, primarily due to their aesthetic appeal. However,  a fundamental criterion for pot selection is the presence of efficacious drainage mechanisms. Regularly, a repotting interval spanning two to three years, preferably during the spring season, is recommended. It is noteworthy that the Chinese evergreen exhibits resilience when slightly root-bound; hence, immediate repotting upon noticing root-bound conditions is not imperative.

After repotting, the potting mix’s moisture retention is of paramount importance. Ensure that it remains consistently moist. However, as the winter months approach, a subtle decrement in watering frequency and quantity is advisable, aligning with the plant’s reduced metabolic activity during this cooler period.

Common problems with Chinese evergreen

While the Chinese evergreen is predominantly characterized by its robustness and unproblematic nature, a few challenges might occasionally arise, particularly manifested in the form of curling or wavy leaves.  Addressing these concerns expeditiously should allow the plant to rebound to its optimal health. Below are the potential challenges and their respective resolutions:

• Pest and Disease Infestations: The Chinese evergreen, though resilient, is not entirely immune to pest afflictions. Incidents involving scale, mealybugs, or spider mites have been reported. In such cases, you are recommended to administer treatments using appropriate insecticides or resort to neem oil applications.
• Fungal Issues Stemming from Overwatering:  An overtly moist environment can predispose the plant to fungal complications and root rot. Exercising caution and allowing the soil to partially dry between watering sessions can circumvent these complications.
• Natural Aging Process: As with many living organisms, senescence is an inevitable facet of the Chinese evergreen’s life cycle. In older plants, the appearance of aberrant leaves is expected. You should simply excise the affected foliage.
• Excessive Light Exposure: The adverse impact of direct sunlight, namely leaf scorch, mandates that you reposition the plant. Opt for locales with abundant yet indirect sunlight.
• Temperature Fluctuations: It is essential that the plant is situated in warm locales devoid of cold drafts.
• Sub-optimal Humidity Levels: Low ambient humidity can adversely affect the plant. Combat this by enhancing the surrounding humidity, potentially through misting.
• Watering Imbalances: Both underwatering and overwatering can compromise the plant’s health. In the case of underwatering, symptoms include parched, brittle leaves. Address this by hydrating the plant judiciously, ensuring moisture absorption.  Conversely, with overwatering, refrain from watering until the upper soil layer dries. For larger pots, approximately 10 to 12 inches in diameter, it is advisable to let the soil dry to a greater depth, approximately halfway, before re-watering.

Chinese evergreen in Feng Shui

In Feng Shui, Chinese evergreen holds significant importance as a plant that harmonizes and balances the energies of any given space. With its lush green leaves, it embodies the principles of growth, renewal, and the continuous flow of positive energy.

In Chinese tradition,  Chinese evergreen is considered a symbol of good luck and fortune. Introducing this plant into your environment is believed to attract prosperity and create a sense of well-being. Its vibrant leaves, with their varied patterns, act as a representation of life’s complexities and the ever-evolving nature of existence.

The plant’s ability to thrive in low-light conditions resonates with Feng Shui’s philosophy of resilience and adaptability. When you place a Chinese Evergreen in challenging areas of your home or office, it signifies your intention to persevere and thrive despite adversities. This, in turn, encourages the flow of positive energy and resilience in your life.

Furthermore, the plant’s association with the purification of air aligns with Feng Shui’s emphasis on cleansing and rejuvenation.  By absorbing indoor pollutants, the Chinese Evergreen can improve air quality, thereby enhancing your health and vitality. In Feng Shui, clean air is linked to clear thoughts and a focused mind.

When considering the five elemental phases in Feng Shui — Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water — the Chinese Evergreen corresponds to the Wood element. Wood symbolizes growth, expansion and upward movement. By incorporating this plant into your space, you invite attributes associated with the Wood element, such as creativity, flexibility and kindness.