The Anyanmanee Aglaonema, a Chinese Evergreen cultivar (Aglaonema commutatum), is an indoor plant known for its striking foliage. Its wide, dark green leaves are heavily variegated with vibrant splashes of dusty pink and red, remaining colorful throughout the year. This plant has an upright spreading growth habit. Its decorative leaves are its primary feature, as its flowers are not ornamentally significant. These tropical perennials thrive in various indoor conditions.
Anyanmanee Aglaonema Care Guide
Light Requirements
Anyanmanee Aglaonema thrives in bright, indirect light conditions. Placing the plant a few feet from a north or east-facing window can provide sufficient light without the intensity of direct sun. Direct sunlight, especially in the afternoon, can scorch the delicate leaves, leading to brown or burnt spots. While these plants can tolerate lower light environments, their growth may slow, and the vibrant coloration of their leaves might become less pronounced.
Watering Needs
Proper watering involves allowing the top 1 to 2 inches of soil to dry out before watering thoroughly. It is important to water slowly from above until water drains from the bottom of the pot, then discard any excess water to prevent the plant from sitting in standing water. Overwatering is a common issue that can lead to yellowing leaves and root rot. Conversely, underwatering can cause leaves to droop or curl and develop brown tips.
Soil Preferences
A well-draining potting mix that is aerated and rich in organic matter is ideal for Anyanmanee Aglaonema. Components like peat moss, perlite, and pine bark create a suitable blend. Good drainage is essential to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. The plant also prefers a slightly acidic soil pH, ideally between 5.6 and 6.5.
Temperature and Humidity
Anyanmanee Aglaonema prefers warm, consistent temperatures, ideally ranging between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C). It is important to protect the plant from cold drafts and temperatures below 55°F (10°C), which can cause tissue damage and stress. These tropical plants also benefit from high humidity levels, ideally around 60% or above. To increase humidity, consider using a pebble tray, grouping plants together, or employing a humidifier.
Fertilization
During the active growing season (spring and summer), fertilize Anyanmanee Aglaonema every four to six weeks. A balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength, is recommended. During the fall, reduce the frequency to every 8-10 weeks, and cease fertilization entirely in winter when the plant’s growth naturally slows. Over-fertilization harms the plant, so adhere to recommended dilutions and frequencies.
Propagating Anyanmanee Aglaonema
Stem Cuttings
For stem cuttings, select a healthy shoot 4-6 inches long from the upper part of the plant. Make a clean, angled cut just above a node using a sharp, sterilized knife. Place the cutting in water or directly into a well-draining potting mix. If using soil, gently push the cutting into the moistened medium and keep it in a warm area with bright, indirect light. Roots form within four to six weeks at 72-75°F (22-24°C).
Division
Propagation by division involves separating new offsets or “daughter plants” from the main plant, often done during repotting. Carefully remove the plant from its pot and identify offsets that have their own roots and leaves. Gently separate these offsets from the parent plant, ensuring not to damage the root systems. Plant each offset into its own pot with fresh, well-draining soil and water thoroughly.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Yellowing Leaves
Yellowing leaves indicate improper soil moisture, most commonly overwatering. Overwatering leads to root rot, where roots suffocate and are unable to absorb water, causing leaves to yellow and potentially wilt. If the soil is consistently moist and leaves are yellowing, allow the soil to dry out more between waterings. Yellowing also results from too much direct light, which can burn the foliage.
Brown Leaf Tips or Spots
Brown leaf tips or edges point to low humidity or inconsistent watering, such as prolonged periods of dry soil. Increasing humidity around the plant through misting, pebble trays, or humidifiers alleviates this issue. Brown spots on leaves indicate sunburn from excessive direct light exposure. Adjusting the plant’s placement to a brighter, but indirect, light source prevents further damage.
Pests
Common pests include spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. These pests feed on the plant’s sap, leading to yellowing, wilting, or distorted leaves. Regularly inspecting the leaves, especially the undersides, and promptly treating any infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil manages these issues. Good air circulation and cleaning leaves with a damp cloth also prevents pest problems.
Is Anyanmanee Aglaonema Toxic?
Yes, Anyanmanee Aglaonema is considered toxic to both humans and pets. The plant contains insoluble, needle-shaped calcium oxalate crystals, which cause irritation upon contact or ingestion. Symptoms of ingestion include a burning sensation, pain, and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and lips, excessive drooling, and difficulty swallowing. While not life-threatening, the discomfort caused by these crystals deters further ingestion. Keep the plant out of reach of curious children and pets.