Chinese Evergreen
Aglaonema commutatum
A tough, colorful foliage plant tolerant of low light, valued for its patterned leaves in green, silver, pink or red. A reliable beginner-friendly houseplant.
- Light
- Low to bright indirect light
- Water
- When top inch dries
- Difficulty
- Easy
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Overview
The Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema) is a group of tropical foliage plants prized for decorative leaves and easy care. Older varieties show silver-and-green camouflage patterns, while modern hybrids add bold pinks and reds.
It is one of the most forgiving houseplants, tolerating low light, average humidity and some neglect, which makes it a favorite for offices and beginners. It grows slowly into a bushy, upright clump and stays compact enough for tabletops and floor displays alike.
How to identify it
Look for upright clumps of broad, pointed-oval leaves with silver, green, pink or red patterning.
- Leaves: lance-shaped to oval, leathery, marked with silver, cream, pink or red over green
- Habit: bushy, upright, clumping; usually 30 to 90 cm tall
- Stems: short, becoming cane-like with age as lower leaves drop
- Flowers: a greenish-white spathe and spadix like a small peace lily, often hidden by foliage
Care & growing
Adaptable from low to bright indirect light; brighter, more colorful varieties (pinks and reds) need more light to hold their color, while green-silver types tolerate shade.
- Water: when the top inch of soil dries; avoid soggy soil and cold water
- Soil: well-draining potting mix
- Temperature: warm, 18 to 27 C; keep above 15 C and away from cold drafts
- Feeding: dilute fertilizer monthly in the growing season
- Propagation: by division or stem cuttings
Habitat & origin
Native to the tropical and subtropical forests of Southeast Asia, including the Philippines, Indonesia and southern China, where it grows in the warm, humid, shaded understory. This shade-floor origin underlies its tolerance of low indoor light. It is grown globally as an indoor foliage plant.
Frequently asked questions
Can a Chinese evergreen handle low light?
Yes, the green-and-silver varieties tolerate low light well. Highly colored pink and red types keep their color best in brighter indirect light.
Why are the leaf edges turning yellow or brown?
Cold drafts, cold water, or overwatering are common causes. Keep it warm and let the topsoil dry between waterings.
How do I make it bushier?
Provide adequate light and feed in the growing season; you can also pot multiple divisions together for a fuller look.
How do I recognize a Chinese evergreen?
Look for upright, bushy clumps of leathery, lance-shaped to oval leaves patterned in silver, cream, pink or red over green.
Chinese Evergreen guides
In-depth guides for identifying, growing, and caring for Chinese Evergreen.
How to Care for Chinese Evergreen
Grow Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema commutatum), an easygoing houseplant with strikingly patterned foliage that thrives in low light.
Chinese Evergreen Identification Guide
Identify the Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema) by its broad, patterned lance-shaped leaves, bushy clumping habit, and peace-lily-like blooms.
