Chinese evergreen
Aglaonema spp.
Tropical evergreen houseplant prized for attractive variegated leaves; tolerant of low light and forgiving of irregular watering.
Caution: Toxic to Pets
Toxicity: toxic
Contains calcium oxalate crystals; ingestion or contact can irritate mouth, throat and skin. Keep away from pets and children.
🌱Care Requirements
Light
Place Aglaonema in bright, indirect light or low light. An east or north window a few feet away is ideal; keep out of direct sun which can scorch leaves. Rotate pot monthly for even growth and variegation retention.
Water
Water when the top 2–3 cm (about 1 inch) of soil is dry. Water thoroughly until excess drains, then discard runoff. Reduce frequency in cooler months and avoid letting the plant sit in water to prevent root rot.
Humidity
Prefers moderate to high humidity (40–60%+). Increase humidity with a humidifier, pebble tray, or grouping plants. Misting gives brief relief but is not a long-term solution.
Temperature
Best kept between 15–30°C (59–86°F). Avoid cold drafts and temperatures below 12–15°C (54–59°F) which can cause leaf discoloration and drop.
🔧Common Problems & Solutions
Yellowing lower leaves
Cause: Overwatering or poor drainage leading to root stress
Solution: Check roots for rot, trim damaged roots, repot into fresh, well-draining mix and reduce watering frequency.
Brown leaf tips or edges
Cause: Low humidity, salt buildup from water or fluoride in tap water, or inconsistent watering
Solution: Increase humidity, flush soil with clean water occasionally, use distilled or filtered water and maintain consistent watering.
Leggy growth and faded variegation
Cause: Insufficient light or lack of nutrients
Solution: Move to brighter indirect light, provide balanced fertilizer during active growth and prune to encourage bushiness.
Pests (mealybugs, spider mites)
Cause: Dry air, stressed plants or introduction from other plants
Solution: Isolate plant, wipe foliage with alcohol solution, treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil and repeat treatments until cleared.
✂️How to Propagate Chinese evergreen
Stem cuttings: choose a healthy stem with 2–4 leaves, cut 10–15 cm below a node, remove lower leaves, and place cut end in water or moist sterile mix. Roots appear in 2–6 weeks; transplant when roots are 2–3 cm. Division: gently remove plant from pot, separate rooted clumps with roots intact and repot each section. Air-layering: wound a stem, wrap moist sphagnum and plastic until roots form, then cut and pot.
🌍Origin & Background
Family: Araceae
Native to: Southeast Asia, including southern China, Malaysia and the Philippines
Natural Habitat: Understory of tropical rainforests, growing in humus-rich, well-draining soils with consistent warmth, high humidity and dappled canopy shade.
🗓Seasonal Care Guide
Winter
Reduce watering and stop or cut back fertilizing. Keep plant in a warm, draft-free spot and maintain humidity; avoid cold windows.
Spring
Resume regular watering and fertilizing as growth resumes. Consider repotting or dividing if rootbound and refresh topsoil.
Summer
Maintain consistent moisture and humidity, keep plant out of direct sun and feed every 4–6 weeks with balanced fertilizer.
Fall
Gradually reduce feeding and watering frequency as growth slows. Inspect for pests and trim any damaged foliage.
❓Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water my Aglaonema?
Water when the top 2–3 cm of soil is dry—typically every 7–14 days depending on pot size and indoor climate.
Can Aglaonema handle low light?
Yes. Aglaonema tolerates low light but will show better color and growth in bright, indirect light.
Is Chinese evergreen toxic to pets?
Yes. It contains calcium oxalate crystals and can cause drooling, vomiting or oral irritation if ingested.
When should I repot my Aglaonema?
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots circle the pot. Spring is the best time to repot and divide if needed.
How do I revive drooping leaves?
Check for over- or under-watering, improve drainage, trim damaged leaves, and adjust light and humidity to steady levels.
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Last updated: 11/7/2025