The Aglaonema Peacock, also known as the Chinese Evergreen, is a popular houseplant valued for its striking foliage and relatively straightforward care. Its appealing aesthetic makes it a favored choice for enhancing indoor spaces.
Aglaonema Peacock Appearance and Characteristics
The Aglaonema Peacock is known for its distinctive foliage. Its oblong, narrow leaves display a mottled silver-green base with dark green spots and a yellow-green midrib, creating a tricolor appearance. These glossy, lance-shaped leaves can reach 32.5 cm long and 11.5 cm wide. The plant typically grows upright with an outwardly arching habit, reaching 60-90 cm (2-3 feet) in height and about 60 cm (2 feet) in spread.
Aglaonema Peacock Care Guide
Light Requirements
Aglaonema Peacock thrives in bright, indirect light. While it tolerates lower light, insufficient light can slow growth and fade vibrant leaf coloration. Avoid harsh afternoon sun, which can scorch leaves; direct morning sunlight is acceptable. Place the plant in a well-lit room, possibly with sheer curtains to filter intense light.
Watering Needs
Water Aglaonema Peacock consistently, avoiding waterlogging. During the spring and summer growing season, water thoroughly when the top 2.5 cm (1 inch) of soil feels dry. In cooler autumn and winter months, reduce frequency, allowing about 50% of the topsoil to dry out. Overwatering causes root rot, while underwatering leads to wilting or dry, crispy leaves.
Temperature and Humidity
Aglaonema Peacock prefers warm environments, with consistent temperatures between 18°C to 27°C (65°F to 80°F). Temperatures below 13°C (55°F) can damage tissue and inhibit growth, so avoid cold drafts and sudden changes. High humidity is beneficial; dry air can cause deformed leaves with dry tips and edges. Increase ambient humidity by misting regularly, using a humidifier, or placing the plant on a pebble tray.
Soil and Fertilization
Aglaonema Peacock needs a well-draining potting mix that retains some moisture. A blend of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite, or leaf mold, humus, peat, sand, and charcoal, works well. The soil pH should range from 6.0 to 6.5. During the growing season, fertilize every two to four weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Reduce fertilization to once every couple of months in fall, and avoid it entirely in winter.
Troubleshooting Common Aglaonema Peacock Issues
Yellowing leaves often indicate overwatering or underwatering, though older leaves naturally yellow. Consistently soggy soil may cause root rot, identifiable by mushy or discolored roots. Brown leaf tips or edges typically result from low humidity or direct sunlight; increase humidity and move the plant to indirect light to resolve this.
Fading variegation, where patterns lose vibrancy, indicates insufficient light. Adjust the plant’s location to receive more bright, indirect light to restore foliage color. Drooping leaves signal either too much or too little water, requiring a soil moisture check. Inconsistent watering can also cause brown spots on leaves.
Common pests include spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Spider mites, prevalent in dry conditions, cause yellowing, stippling, and sometimes fine webbing. Mealybugs appear as white, cottony masses, usually at leaf and stem joints. Regular inspection and treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil are effective.
Propagating and Repotting Aglaonema Peacock
Aglaonema Peacock can be propagated via stem cuttings or division. For stem cuttings, take a healthy 10-15 cm (4-6 inches) segment with leaves and a node. Root these in water or a well-draining potting mix; rooting hormone can encourage development. For division, carefully separate rooted offsets from the parent plant and pot them individually.
Repot when the plant becomes root-bound, indicated by roots emerging from drainage holes or slowed growth during the active season. The best time is spring or summer. Choose a new pot 2.5-10 cm (1-4 inches) wider than the current one. Gently remove the plant, place it in the new pot with fresh soil, and water thoroughly.
Toxicity Information
Aglaonema Peacock contains calcium oxalate crystals, making it toxic if ingested. Ingestion can cause irritation of the mouth, tongue, and throat, leading to symptoms like swelling, burning, and difficulty swallowing. Wear gloves when handling the plant to avoid skin irritation. Keep Aglaonema Peacock out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.