Chinese Evergreen plants (Aglaonema) are popular houseplants known for their vibrant foliage. Pink varieties are especially popular due to their striking aesthetic, featuring shades of pink, red, and green on their leaves. Their straightforward care makes them an excellent choice for both new and experienced plant enthusiasts, adding a tropical splash of color to indoor spaces.
Popular Pink Varieties
Several Chinese Evergreen cultivars showcase prominent pink coloration. ‘Pink Dalmatian’ features dark green leaves speckled with soft pink spots. ‘Pink Valentine’ presents a blend of pink, cream, and green hues, often with pink dominating the leaf centers.
The ‘Red Aglaonema’ varieties, including ‘Siam Aurora’ and ‘Siam Red’, display deep red or reddish-pink margins and veins contrasting with green foliage. ‘Creta’ is known for its vibrant pink edges and veins on glossy green leaves, while ‘Sparkling Sarah’ offers large, spear-shaped leaves with pink splashes.
Essential Care for Pink Chinese Evergreens
Light
Pink Chinese Evergreens thrive in bright, indirect light. An east or west-facing window is ideal, providing ample light without harsh sun exposure. While they tolerate lower light, insufficient light can cause pink variegation to fade. Direct afternoon sun can scorch leaves, leading to brown spots. Rotate the plant regularly for even growth and consistent color.
Watering
Water pink Chinese Evergreens when the top 50% of the soil feels dry, typically every one to two weeks depending on environmental factors. Saturate the soil until water drains from the pot’s bottom, then discard excess from the saucer. Overwatering causes root rot; underwatering leads to wilting and crispy leaves.
Soil
A well-draining potting mix is crucial for pink Chinese Evergreens to prevent waterlogging and promote healthy root development. A good mixture often includes peat, pine bark, and perlite or sand for enhanced drainage and aeration. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
Temperature and Humidity
Pink Chinese Evergreens prefer warm environments, with ideal temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C). They are sensitive to cold drafts; temperatures below 60°F (15°C) can cause damage. These tropical plants appreciate moderate to high humidity, ideally above 60%. Increase humidity by misting leaves regularly, placing the plant on a pebble tray, or using a room humidifier.
Fertilizer
During the spring and summer growing season, feed pink Chinese Evergreens with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Use at half the strength suggested on the product label, applying monthly or every 4-6 weeks. Balanced feeding supports plant health and maintains pink vibrancy. Reduce or cease fertilization in fall and winter when growth naturally slows.
Common Issues and Solutions
Pink Chinese Evergreens can exhibit distress signs, often environmental. Yellowing leaves indicate overwatering or poor drainage; browning leaf tips suggest low humidity, over-fertilization, or fluoride. Adjust watering and ensure proper drainage for yellowing. Increase humidity (misting, pebble trays) and use distilled or rainwater for browning tips.
Pest infestations (spider mites, mealybugs) may occur. Regular inspection and treatment with horticultural remedies like neem oil manage these issues.
Dulling pink variegation is a concern, often linked to insufficient light. Moving the plant to brighter indirect light and ensuring adequate nutrient supply can help restore characteristic pink hues.
Propagating Pink Chinese Evergreens
Propagating pink Chinese Evergreens is effective via stem cuttings. Select a healthy 4-6 inch stem with at least one leaf and a node. Cut just below a node with clean, sharp shears. Remove any bottom leaves that would be submerged in water or buried in soil.
Root cuttings in water or directly in soil. For water, submerge the node in a glass and change water every few days.
For soil, plant in a well-draining potting mix, deep enough to stand upright. Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, and place in a warm spot with bright, indirect light until roots establish (a few weeks). Once roots are several inches long, transplant the new plant.