The Aglaonema ‘Spitfire’ is a popular and visually striking houseplant, known for its attractive foliage. Its relatively easy care makes it suitable for both novice and experienced plant enthusiasts, adding vibrant color to indoor spaces.
Aglaonema ‘Spitfire’ Characteristics
The Aglaonema ‘Spitfire’ features lush green leaves with striking splashes of pink, cream, and peach. This eye-catching variegation creates a dynamic and colorful statement. Its narrow, lance-shaped leaves contribute to an upright, compact growth habit, reaching about 50-70 cm in height and width. This size makes it well-suited for various indoor settings, including shelves or desktops.
Caring for Your Aglaonema ‘Spitfire’
Light
The Aglaonema ‘Spitfire’ thrives in medium to low light conditions. It prefers bright, indirect light to maintain its vibrant coloration. Direct sunlight should be avoided, as it can scorch the delicate leaves. Position the plant a few feet from a bright window, or near a north or east-facing window.
Watering
Aglaonema ‘Spitfire’ prefers slightly moist, but not waterlogged, soil. Allow the top 2.5-5 cm of soil to dry out between waterings. Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom of the pot. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so check soil moisture before watering again, as frequency varies by environmental factors.
Soil
A well-draining potting mix is suitable for Aglaonema ‘Spitfire’ to prevent waterlogging and promote healthy root development. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite provides aeration and drainage. Coco coir and coco chip can also be included. The plant prefers a lightly acidic potting soil.
Temperature and Humidity
Aglaonema ‘Spitfire’ thrives at average room temperatures, ideally 18-27°C (65-80°F). Protect it from cold drafts; temperatures below 15°C (59°F) can be detrimental. It prefers moderate to higher humidity, ideally 60-70%, mimicking its native tropical environment. While it tolerates normal household humidity, increased humidity promotes more vibrant foliage.
Fertilizing
During spring and summer, Aglaonema ‘Spitfire’ benefits from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced houseplant fertilizer every 4-6 weeks, diluted to half strength, to prevent overfeeding. Over-fertilization can lead to root burn and cause yellow or brown marks on the leaves. Reduce or stop fertilizing in winter when the plant’s growth slows.
Common Issues and Solutions
Leaf discoloration indicates plant stress in Aglaonema ‘Spitfire’. Yellowing leaves with moist soil and drooping suggest overwatering and potential root rot. Crispy, yellow or brown leaves with dry soil indicate underwatering. Browning tips signal low humidity, indicating the need for increased moisture.
To address these issues, adjust watering by checking soil moisture, ensuring proper drainage, and allowing the topsoil to dry. For low humidity, mist leaves regularly or place the plant on a pebble tray to increase ambient moisture. Regularly wiping dust from leaves aids photosynthesis and allows for early detection of pests like spider mites or mealybugs. For infestations, wipe with a damp cloth or apply insecticidal soap.