Chinese Evergreen
Aglaonema commutatum · Araceae
- Light
- Low to bright-indirect
- Water
- Moderate
- Humidity
- Average to high
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Pet-safe
- No
- Propagation
- Division, Stem Cuttings
Common problems: Root RotMealybugsScale InsectsSpider MitesFungus Gnats
Quick facts
- Light: Low to bright indirect · Water: When top 1-2 inches dry
- Difficulty: Easy
- Pet-safe: No
Description
A tough, leafy aroid with patterned oval leaves, often silver, green, cream, pink, or red depending on cultivar. It is one of the better foliage plants for lower-light rooms.
Care
- Light: Tolerates low light; brighter indirect light improves color. Avoid harsh direct sun.
- Water: Let the top 1-2 inches dry. Keep slightly drier in winter.
- Soil & potting: Well-draining houseplant mix with drainage.
- Humidity & temperature: Average humidity works, but warm stable rooms are best. Avoid cold drafts.
- Feeding: Light feeding spring-summer.
- Repotting / propagation: Repot when crowded; slow to moderate grower.
Propagation
By division or stem cuttings. Division is easiest: separate rooted crowns during repotting. Cane-like stems can also be cut into sections with nodes and rooted warm. See Propagation Basics.
Toxicity
Toxic to cats and dogs due to insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause oral irritation, drooling, and vomiting if chewed. Source: ASPCA.
Common ailments, afflictions & pests
Click any item for how to identify and treat it.
- Root Rot — yellowing, collapse, and sour soil from overwatering.
- Mealybugs — white cotton in leaf bases.
- Scale Insects — brown bumps and sticky residue.
- Spider Mites — more likely in dry air.
- Fungus Gnats — wet soil warning.
See also: Diagnose a Problem.