Guide to Growing Aglaonema

Aglaonema is a foliage house plant and a favorite ofmost indoor gardeners. They are very popular for their large green foliage and are beautiful accent to any home or office. Aglaonema is a very low maintenance and requires very little attention.

Aglaonema is a very elegant plant that grows well in very little light. This makes them perfect for rooms with little or no sunlight including office space. They are great accent plants for corners or long walls needing a little decoration.

Scientific Name:

Aglaonema

Common Names:

None

Description:

Aglaonema is a tough foliage plant with distinctive leaves that are green and have a variety of patterns depending on the cultivar. Dark green leaves with light green lines, white accents or pink accents are just a few of the most common color patterns. They have long, green leafy clusters that spread slowly and become more open the older they get.

Flower:

Aglaonema does not put out flowers but is still a very beautiful plant due to its foliage.

Elements:

Light: Low to Moderate

Temperatures: Days 70-80 degrees F. Nights 60-65 degrees F.

Watering: Let soil partly dry between waterings.

Care and Maintenance:

Aglaonema should not be placed in direct sun or light. Placing in front of a window with out direct sun light is acceptable as long as it does now allow for bright light. Aglaonema performs better in low light or shade.

Remove lower, faded leaves often to insure a well groomed plant. Aglaonema does require leaching every few months to help remove any soluble salt build ups which will damage the plant.

Fertilizing:

Fertilize Aglaonema once every 2 months or at half recommended strength every month.

Propagation:

Propagate Aglaonema by division or stem cuttings. Watch for new grown coming up at the base of the replant during growing season. Gently remove new growth from the base with out losing roots and replant in a separate pot.

When plant becomes root bound or too thick, simply divide and repot.

Cultivars:

Fransher- Slender green foliage with light gray markings on leaves.

Malay Beauty or Pewter- Dark green leaves with white markings. Height is 12-24 inches.

Parrot Jungle- Green Foliage with silver markings.

Queen Julieene- Wider green leaves with lots of silver 'feathered' markings.

Silver King- Almost full silver foliage with green edges.

Silver Queen- Grayish-green leaves with silver markings, height of 18 inches.

CAUTION: Aglaonema should never be confused with Dieffenbachia, also known as Dumb Cane or Mother-in-Laws Tongue. Dieffenbachia is a highly toxic plant that can cause serious medical problems. Dumb Cane is always variegated and a more yellow marking.