Chinese evergreen is a tropical perennial available in a number of cultivars that make excellent houseplants. Its large, glossy, lance-shaped leaves come in different color combinations with shades of green, silver, white, red, purple, and cream. Indoor plants rarely produce flowers.
In the Chinese practice of feng shui, Aglaonema is thought to bring luck, prosperity, and success. However, keep in mind that these plants can be toxic to dogs and cats.
Chinese evergreen is one of the most popular and easy to grow houseplants, even for beginners. This exotic looking tropical plant thrives indoors and adds a touch of nature to any living space.
In this detailed guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know about successfully growing Chinese evergreen as houseplants, including ideal conditions, watering, fertilizing, troubleshooting problems, and the best varieties to choose from
Why Chinese Evergreen Makes a Top Indoor Plant
There are several key reasons why Chinese evergreen is highly recommended for indoor growing:
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Tolerates low light conditions. Does fine in bright indirect light but also adapts to shadier spots.
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Forgiving if you occasionally forget to water. Doesn’t drop leaves easily.
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Lush tropical looking foliage in a range of colors and patterns.
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Long-lived, slow growing, and low maintenance once established.
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Not bothered by pests or diseases indoors. Naturally resistant.
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Effective at removing indoor air pollutants like formaldehyde
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Easy to propagate by stem cuttings or division.
Chinese evergreen is the ideal worry-free houseplant even for novice or neglectful plant owners. It’s resilient, unfussy, and adds vibrant foliage to indoor displays.
Providing the Right Growing Conditions
While quite adaptable, there are some basic conditions to provide for your Chinese evergreen to thrive indoors long-term:
Light
Chinese evergreen grows well in medium to low indirect light. Some variegated varieties need brighter light to maintain their leaf colors. Direct hot sunlight will scorch the leaves. East or west facing windows are ideal.
If you don’t have a bright spot, Chinese evergreen will adapt to lower light areas in a home or office. Avoid dark corners with no natural light. Move plants closer to windows in winter when light levels are lower.
Water
Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out between thorough waterings. Water less frequently in winter during its semi-dormant rest period. Drooping leaves are a sign it needs water. Avoid overwatering which can lead to root rot.
Humidity
Chinese evergreen prefers consistently warm and humid conditions. Ideal humidity is 60-70%. Bathrooms provide added humidity. Mist leaves regularly or use a pebble tray. Protect from cold drafts which can damage leaves.
Soil
Use a well-draining potting mix amended with perlite, orchid bark, or sand to prevent soggy soil. Re-pot every 2-3 years into a slightly larger container. Avoid potting soils with water retaining moss.
Fertilizer
Apply a diluted liquid houseplant fertilizer monthly during spring through summer when actively growing. Any balanced fertilizer formulated for foliage plants will work well. No need to fertilize in fall and winter months.
Common Varieties to Choose From
There are over 60 species and countless cultivars of Chinese evergreen to collect. Here are some of the most popular varieties found:
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Silver Bay – Dramatic silver variegated leaves with dark green. Fast growing.
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Maria – Deep green leaves with silvery stripes. Tolerates low light well.
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White Rajah – Broad creamy white variegated leaves.
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Red Gold – Pinkish red blotches on green. Bright indirect light.
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Milky Way – Pale gray-green leaves with white veining. Compact.
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Bold Allusion – Vivid green leaves with bold cream stripes radiating from midrib.
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Black Ripple – Dark leaves with ruffled wavy edges. Dimensional texture.
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Pink Dalmatian – Heavily speckled pink on green leaves. Bright light.
There are dwarf “pixie” varieties under 12 inches tall perfect for tables and desktops. Larger types can reach 3 feet for floor plants. Choose the foliage color and pattern you find most appealing.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Chinese evergreen is quite resilient, but may encounter a few issues when grown as indoor houseplants:
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Brown leaf tips – Usually caused by dry air. Increase humidity.
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Yellow leaves – Can indicate overwatering or under-watering. Water appropriately.
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Dropping leaves – Often due to low humidity. Mist leaves and increase air moisture.
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Root rot – Caused by soggy soil. Repot in fresh mix and reduce watering.
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Mealybugs or scale – Treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap spray. Isolate plant.
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Leaf spots – Prune affected leaves. Apply fungicide if needed. Increase air circulation.
With proper care, most issues are easily prevented or remedied. Troubleshoot promptly at the first sign of any problems.
Displaying Chinese Evergreen in the Home
The exotic tropical foliage of Chinese evergreen looks fantastic displayed:
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On plant stands or shelves to add pops of color.
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In entryways and hallways to greet guests.
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On dining and coffee tables to add ambiance.
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In office spaces to boost creativity and focus.
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As part of mixed plant arrangements and terrariums.
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In bathrooms and bedrooms to help purify indoor air.
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On sideboards, console tables, and countertops.
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In hanging baskets, wall planters, or tabletop pots.
Place in indirect bright light near windows or in lower light spots further inside. The vibrant leaves will liven up any room!
With its resilient nature, stunning foliage, and adaptability to indoor conditions, Chinese evergreen makes an outstanding houseplant even for beginner gardeners. Provide medium to low light, humid conditions, well-draining soil, and occasional fertilizing for yours to thrive. Chinese evergreen is sure to add lively color and a touch of the tropics to your indoor plant collection.
Fertilizer
Feed Chinese evergreens with slow-release pellets or liquid houseplant fertilizer twice a year, at the beginning and end of their growing season. Or, you can fertilize it lightly every month or so in spring and summer with water-soluble fertilizer.
Division
- Lay the pot carefully on its side. Use a trowel to loosen soil and gently pull the plant from the pot.
- Lightly shake dirt from the roots. Tease apart the roots to separate a clump for repotting.
- Repot the clump in a pot filled with well-draining potting soil.
- Keep both the original plant and the divided plant moist for a few weeks until both are established.
Aglaonema (Chinese Evergreen) Care: A Noob-Proof Houseplant
FAQ
How do you care for Chinese Evergreen plants indoors?
Chinese evergreens (Aglaonema) are popular, low-maintenance indoor plants that thrive in low to medium light conditions. They prefer consistently moist, but not soggy, soil and moderate to high humidity.
Do Chinese Evergreen plants need sunlight?
Provide low to bright indirect light. Varieties with darker green leaves can tolerate dimmer conditions, while those with light or colorful variegation require brighter light to retain their colors and patterns. Avoid placing plants in direct sunlight, which can cause leaf burn.
Should I cut brown leaves off Chinese Evergreen?
Chinese Evergreen, Red Siam Aurora Aglaonema? Yes, the yellowish leaves and brown tips can be cut off! Brown means dead so that won’t come back and yellow means over/under watering! Those normally won’t come back so you can cut them as well! Cutting off the yellow leaves should send out new growth!
Where is the best place to keep a Chinese Evergreen?
Provide the Proper Light
One of the most attractive features of the Chinese evergreen is its ability to thrive in low to medium light. These plants are perfectly content in areas with indirect light, such as rooms with north-facing windows.