The Aglaonema ‘Cutlass’ is a popular indoor plant, admired for its striking foliage and adaptability. Its resilience and ease of maintenance make it a favored choice for both new and experienced plant enthusiasts, bringing natural beauty to any space.
What is Aglaonema Cutlass
The Aglaonema ‘Cutlass’ is a distinctive cultivar of Chinese Evergreen, characterized by its unique leaf structure and coloration. Its leaves are notably long and slender, often described as blade-like or dagger-shaped, which gives the plant its ‘Cutlass’ moniker. The foliage typically displays a captivating pattern of deep green margins and central stripes, contrasted with lighter, often silvery-green or creamy-white variegation throughout the rest of the leaf blade.
This plant grows with a compact, bushy, and clumping habit, with leaves extending from short, clustered stems. Mature ‘Cutlass’ plants can reach a height and spread of approximately 2 to 3 feet, creating a moderate size suitable for various indoor settings, from desktops to floor placements. While it can produce small, inconspicuous white or greenish flowers, the plant is primarily cultivated for its showy and decorative foliage.
Aglaonema Cutlass Care Guide
Light Needs
Aglaonema ‘Cutlass’ thrives in bright, indirect light, mimicking its natural understory habitat. A north or east-facing window is ideal, providing ample light without harsh direct sun. Prolonged direct sunlight can scorch leaves and fade variegation. While it tolerates lower light, growth may slow and leaf colors might become less pronounced.
Watering
Allow the top 1 to 2 inches of soil to dry out between waterings. Water thoroughly until liquid drains from the pot’s bottom. Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water, as this can lead to root rot. Yellowing or mushy stalks and leaves indicate overwatering, while crispy, yellow or brown leaves suggest insufficient watering.
Soil Requirements
A well-draining, airy potting mix prevents waterlogging and promotes healthy root development for Aglaonema ‘Cutlass’. A suitable mix includes components like peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite, which aid aeration and drainage while retaining moisture. A lightweight, peat-based soil allows water and air to flow smoothly, important for the plant’s shallow root system.
Temperature and Humidity
Aglaonema ‘Cutlass’ prefers warm and stable temperatures, ideally ranging between 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C). It is sensitive to cold temperatures below 60°F (15°C) and sudden temperature fluctuations, which can damage the leaves. Avoiding drafts from windows, heaters, or air conditioning vents is also important. As a tropical plant, it appreciates moderate to high humidity levels, ideally above 65%. Increasing humidity can be achieved through regular misting, placing the pot on a pebble tray with water, or using a humidifier.
Fertilizing
During the growing season, typically spring and summer, fertilize your Aglaonema ‘Cutlass’ with a balanced, water-soluble houseplant fertilizer. Fertilization can occur monthly or every six weeks, often at half strength to prevent over-fertilization. Reduce or stop feeding during fall and winter when the plant’s growth naturally slows. Over-fertilizing can lead to brown leaf tips or chemical burn, so it is important to follow dilution instructions carefully.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Yellowing Leaves
Yellowing leaves frequently signal improper soil moisture, most often overwatering. If the soil remains soggy, adjust watering habits to allow the topsoil to dry out between sessions. Yellowing can also indicate too much direct sunlight or nutrient deficiencies.
Browning Leaf Tips
Browning leaf tips or edges often point to low humidity, too much fertilizer, or issues with tap water containing fluoride or excess salts. Increase humidity through misting or pebble trays, flush the soil, or use filtered water to alleviate this.
Drooping Leaves
Drooping leaves can signal either too much or too little water, or inadequate light. Assess the plant’s environment to determine the cause.
Pests
Pest infestations, while not common, can occur. Look for spider mites, mealybugs, scale insects, or aphids. Spider mites cause yellowing and stippling, thriving in dry conditions. Mealybugs appear as white, cottony masses. Manual removal with rubbing alcohol or insecticidal soap can manage these pests.