Aglaonema modestum aka Chinese Evergreen
Taxonomy
Aglaonema modestum, commonly known as Chinese evergreen, green-for-ten-thousand-years, and lily of China, is a rhizomatous evergreen native to tropical swamps and rainforests in Bangladesh, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and southeast and south-central China. It has lance-shaped leaves on leaf stalks 30cm (12inch) long that rise from the central growing point. These waxy, undulate, medium green leaves measure 20cm (8 inch) long and 10cm (4 inch) wide and may occasionally form a short trunk-like stem scarred with circular markings where leaves were once attached, allowing the plant to reach up to 60cm (24 inch) in height. In summer or early fall, it produces an arum-shaped flower head comprising a white or yellow spathe with central stalked spadix and this is followed by red or orange berries. Chinese evergreens have been grown in homes throughout Asia for centuries as symbols of good fortune, but only become popular in the West following its introduction in 1885. Their success was particularly felt in Florida, where most foliage plants are now produced.
Common names
Chinese Evergreen, Japanese LeafHow to care for Chinese Evergreen
Difficulty
Caring for Chinese Evergreen is a breeze, as it is highly adaptable and forgiving to minor neglect.
Soil
Chinese Evergreen loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Chinese Evergreen prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Dormancy
During the cold period, it is common for Chinese Evergreen to go dormant, resulting in a slowdown of growth. To accommodate this, waterings should be spaced out more.
Toxicity
Chinese Evergreen is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.
Humidity
The Chinese Evergreen does not need extra humidity. Plants primarily absorb water through their root system, making soil watering the best way to provide humidity to your plants.
Fertilizer
The Chinese Evergreen should be repotted when it has doubled in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing fresh potting soil with all the essential nutrients each year ensures the plant's well-being, eliminating the need for fertilizer. Remember, plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.
Growth-pattern
The Chinese Evergreen is characterized by clumping growth, with new shoots emerging from the soil around the primary plant.
Region of origin
Chinese Evergreen’s native range is tropical Asia and New Guinea.
Flower
Yes, if you provide your Chinese Evergreen with adequate sunlight and water, you can expect it to bloom.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Aglaonema Genus
Aglaonema simplex Malayan Sword
Aglaonema modestum Chinese Evergreen
Aglaonema commutatum Chinese Evergreen
Aglaonema rotundum Red Vein Aglaonema
Aglaonema brevispathum Indo China Aglaonema
Aglaonema philippinense Philippines Aglaonema
Aglaonema costatum Spotted Evergreen
Aglaonema nitidum Aglaonema Aroid
