Aglaonema plants, commonly known as Chinese Evergreens, are popular houseplants due to their striking foliage and adaptability. They feature large, glossy, lance-shaped leaves with a wide array of patterns and colors. Considered easy to care for, their low maintenance contributes to their widespread appeal.
Popular Aglaonema Varieties
The Aglaonema genus offers numerous varieties with unique leaf characteristics. ‘Siam Aurora’, often called Red Aglaonema, is recognized for its vibrant red or pink edges and veins contrasting with green centers. ‘Silver Bay’ presents a distinct appearance with silvery-green centers and darker green margins, creating a sophisticated look. ‘Pink Dalmatian’ features green leaves heavily speckled with bright pink, giving it a playful, speckled pattern. ‘Spring Snow’ showcases light green leaves generously mottled with creamy white, providing a frosted appearance.
Aglaonema Care Requirements
Light
Aglaonema plants thrive in indirect light, preferring medium to low light conditions. Direct sunlight can cause leaf scorching. Varieties with darker green leaves generally tolerate shadier conditions more readily. However, those with lighter or more colorful variegation often require brighter indirect light to maintain their vibrant patterns.
Water
Proper watering is essential for Aglaonema health, as they do not tolerate soggy soil. Water the plant when the top 1 to 2 inches of soil feel dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot. During winter, reduce watering frequency.
Humidity
Aglaonemas are native to humid tropical regions and prefer moderate to high humidity levels, ideally between 40% and 70%. Brown leaf tips often indicate insufficient humidity in their environment. To increase humidity, use a pebble tray, a humidifier, or group plants together.
Soil and Potting
A well-draining, slightly acidic potting mix is suitable for Aglaonema plants. A common mix includes components like coco coir, perlite, compost, peat moss, or vermiculite, which ensure good drainage while retaining some moisture. These plants generally prefer to be slightly root-bound. Repotting is typically needed every two to three years, or when roots are visible through drainage holes, into a pot one inch larger.
Temperature
Aglaonemas prefer warm temperatures, ideally 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C). They are sensitive to cold and should not be exposed to temperatures below 50-55°F (10-13°C). Keep them away from cold drafts from windows, doors, or air conditioning vents, which can stress the plant.
Fertilizer
During the active growing season (spring and summer), Aglaonemas benefit from regular fertilization. A balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer, diluted to half strength, can be applied monthly or every two to four weeks. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter when growth slows. Over-fertilization can lead to root and leaf burn.
Troubleshooting Common Aglaonema Issues
Yellowing leaves on an Aglaonema often signal overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Low light or nutrient deficiencies may also contribute to yellowing foliage or stunted growth.
Brown leaf tips or edges are frequently a result of low humidity or underwatering. Temperature shock from sudden changes or cold drafts can also cause browning. Chemical burn from excessive fertilizer or minerals in tap water can also contribute to brown tips.
Aglaonemas can occasionally encounter common houseplant pests. Pests include spider mites, mealybugs, scale insects, and aphids. Symptoms of infestation include yellowing or wilting leaves. Treat with insecticidal soap, neem oil, or by manually removing them with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Regular inspection aids early detection and treatment.
Propagating Aglaonema
Aglaonemas can be propagated through stem cuttings and division. Stem cuttings are a popular method, taken from a healthy 4 to 6-inch section with at least one leaf node. Root cuttings in water by placing them in a jar, ensuring leaves remain above the surface, and changing water weekly. Roots usually begin to form within a few weeks.
Alternatively, stem cuttings can be rooted directly in soil. For soil propagation, dipping the cut end in rooting hormone can encourage faster root development, though it is not always necessary. The cutting should be inserted into a well-draining potting mix and kept consistently moist in a warm environment, ideally between 70°F and 80°F (21°C to 27°C).
Division is another straightforward method, often performed when repotting. This involves carefully separating offsets or “daughter” plants with their own root systems and leaves from the main plant. Each separated section can then be potted individually into fresh, well-draining soil.