The Aglaonema plant is commonly known as Chinese evergreen plant, which tend to tolerate low light conditions very well. Aglaonemas will flower (these are not very impressive), but are grown mainly for their beautiful leathery leaves. There are many hybrid varieties of Chinese evergreens available that have been grown over the past century. This is due to the growing popularity of indoor plants to be used as ornamental plants for decorating rooms.
Chinese evergreen varieties include light green, speckled and variegated types. One of the most famous and sought after is the Aglaonema silver queen which has mostly silver coated leaves with some small green coverts. ) or elliptical in shape that grows at the top of the stems. These leaves reach up to 30 cm in length and about 5-8 cm in width. An old, mature plant will produce a small trunk that may resemble a Yucca or Dracaena, in the way the small leaves break off and leave scary symbols.
Aglaonema, Chinese Evergreen Care
Temperature
A temperature between 18-27 ºC (65-80 ºF) is perfect. Below 15ºC (60ºF) is not good for this plant and can cause dark spots on the leaves.
Light
The most collective advice for the Aglaonema plant is that the darker the leaves and the stems, the less light you need. To be safe, a bright room is best with the plant in a sheltered location. Avoid direct sunlight.
Water
Keep soil moist at all times. Reduce watering during the winter season.
Soil
A coco peat-based potting mix mixed with sand or perlite to improve drainage is perfect or use any other well-drained potting mix.
Fertilizer
Use diluted liquid fertilizer during spring to late summer.
Re-poting
Re-pot again in the spring season every two to three years. They prefer to be lightly attached to the roots, so there’s no need to worry if they seem to be showing roots through the bottom of the pot.
Humidity
Normal to high humidity is required for Aglaonema plants. Raising the humidity level in a room will increase plant growth and prevent leaves from drying out.
Insects
Spider mites have been known to cause problems with these plants.
