Aglaonema, the Chinese evergreens, are among the most tolerant foliage plants, with leaves in green, silver, pink and red. They are slow, steady growers that suit modest light.
Quick facts
- Light: Green and silver types tolerate low to medium light. Pink and red types need bright indirect light to keep their colour. Avoid direct sun.
- Water: Water when the top 3–5 cm (about 1.5–2 inches) of the mix is dry. Aglaonema dislike soggy roots, and the stems rot if kept wet.
- Soil: Well-draining potting mix with perlite or bark, in a pot with drainage holes.
- Temperature and humidity: 18–27 °C (65–80 °F). Sensitive to cold: keep above about 15 °C (60 °F) and away from drafts. Normal to higher humidity helps.
- Repotting: slow-growing, so repot only when the roots crowd the pot, usually every 2–3 years.
- Feeding: balanced liquid fertiliser at half strength every 3–4 weeks in spring and summer; none in winter or low light.
- Pets: toxic to cats and dogs if chewed (contains calcium oxalate crystals). Keep out of reach.
Pink, red and tricolor hybrids
Colourful hybrids (Pictum Tricolor, Stardust Orange, Red Vein, Pink Sunset and similar) show their strongest colour in brighter light, but still need protection from direct sun. In low light they stay greener and grow more slowly.
Common problems
- Brown leaf tips: Dry air, cold, or minerals in tap water. Try filtered or rainwater.
- Yellowing leaves: Overwatering or cold. Check the mix and the temperature.
- Drooping: Cold or root problems. Move somewhere warmer and inspect the roots.
- Dull colour: Not enough light, especially for pink and red types.
Just arrived from Indonesia?
A long journey stresses any plant. Follow our first two weeks recovery guide before you repot, prune or fertilise.
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Other care guides: Monstera · Philodendron · Syngonium · Scindapsus · Anthurium · Epipremnum