What is a Chinese evergreen?
Chinese evergreen (Aglaonema commutatum) is a clump-forming tropical foliage plant in the arum family, native to the forest floors of Southeast Asia. It is prized indoors for its extraordinary tolerance of low light, dry air, and neglect — paired with remarkably ornamental leaves that, in hundreds of cultivars, range from deep solid green through silver-patterned to vivid red and pink. If you need something attractive that will genuinely survive a dark corner, this is the plant.
Is Chinese evergreen toxic to pets?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Chinese evergreen as toxic to both cats and dogs (and horses). Like other aroids, the plant contains insoluble calcium oxalates — tiny needle-like crystals — that cause immediate oral irritation, pain, swelling, drooling, and vomiting if chewed or ingested. Keep it on high shelves or in rooms pets cannot access.
How much light does a Chinese evergreen need?
Chinese evergreens are the gold standard for low-light tolerance. Deep-green varieties — like the classic Aglaonema modestum — cope well several feet from a window or under fluorescent office lighting. Bright, indirect light suits all varieties and is essential for colorful cultivars (Siam Aurora, Red Peacock, Pink Dalmatian) to develop vivid coloration. Direct sun scorches the leaves quickly regardless of variety.
How often should you water a Chinese evergreen?
Water every 1–2 weeks, allowing the top inch or two of soil to dry out between sessions. In winter, when the plant’s growth slows, extend that interval to two or three weeks. Chinese evergreens are quite forgiving of underwatering — their thick stems store moisture — but sustained overwatering causes root rot, which is the most common way this plant fails.
Why does my Chinese evergreen have yellow leaves?
Yellowing that starts at the lower leaves is almost always overwatering or cold stress. Check that the pot is draining freely, let the soil dry more before the next watering, and move the plant away from air conditioning vents or cold windowsills. A single older yellow leaf now and then is normal and not a cause for concern.
How do you care for colorful Chinese evergreen cultivars?
The vivid pink and red cultivars need noticeably more light than the green types — bright, indirect light is the sweet spot. They also show color best at temperatures consistently above 65°F (18°C) and appreciate a little more humidity. Everything else is the same: let the soil dry between waterings, avoid direct sun, and keep them away from drafts.