Chinese evergreen - Aglaonema modestum (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images, Toxic)

Chinese evergreen

Also known as: Lily of China

Chinese evergreen (Aglaonema modestum) is a plant species indigenous to tropical South Asia. It’s a popular variety of houseplant because its leaves are pink, blue, and green. This species has been cultivated in China for centuries.

Scientific classification

Species

Chinese evergreen (Aglaonema modestum)

Water plantains and allies

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Toxic to Human & Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

60 cm to 1.2 m

Spread

Green, Variegated

Leaf Color

Red, Burgundy

Fruit Color

White, Green, Yellow

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Non-dormant

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer

Growth Season

Slow

Growth Rate

Images of Chinese evergreen

Distribution of Chinese evergreen

Distribution Map

Chinese evergreen is naturally found in the tropical rainforests of Southeast Asia and parts of East Asia. It has since been introduced and cultivated in various tropical and subtropical regions around the globe, adapting well to indoor environments which has extended its presence significantly beyond its original range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Tropical swamps, rainforests

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Chinese evergreen is a common plant appreciated for its low, wide pattern of growth and deep green coloring. This shape makes it popular for use to fill empty corners in gardens or landscaping or to pair with large pieces of outdoor furniture. A good addition to zen or tropical gardens, its companion plants include the Philodendron and Peace Lily, which have similar growth requirements and make a fitting complement.

Symbolism

Auspiciousness and good health

Interesting Facts

Aglaonema modestum is commonly portrayed in Chinese paper-cuts. During Spring Festival, it will be hung on doors and windows to symbolize auspiciousness and good weather for the coming year. Aglaonema modestum is not only used in traditional festivals, but also in wedding halls, offering good wishes for the new couple.

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Toxicity

All parts of the chinese evergreen are moderately poisonous, especially the juice. Symptoms include severe mouth irritation, skin rashes, and swelling. Cats and dogs may experience gastric upset and more serious health issues. Do not place chinese evergreen in homes with children or pets.

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Quickly Identify Chinese evergreen

Large, variegated leaves up to 10 inches (25 cm) long

Thick, multi-trunked stems with smooth texture up to 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter

Small, inconspicuous flowers with pale green or white spathes

Fleshy oval berries ranging from glossy green to white, 0.5 to 0.7 inches (1.3 to 1.8 cm)

Optimal growth in warm temperatures and indoor environments with well-draining soil

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Care Guide for Chinese evergreen

Twice per week

Water

Full shade

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Potting Mix, Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Thriving in humid tropical rainforests, chinese evergreen prefers high humidity and evenly moist soil, tolerating little drought. Water twice a week, allowing topsoil to dry slightly. As an indoor evergreen, chinese evergreen benefits from regular misting to maintain its native moisture levels.

Fertilize: Fertilize chinese evergreen bi-monthly with high nitrogen fertilizer at half strength during spring-summer, then quarterly in fall-winter. Over-fertilization risks salt buildup, so flush soil periodically. Proper feeding enhances vigor; insufficient nutrition may cause pale leaves and leggy stems.

Pruning: Chinese evergreen thrives with minimal care and benefits from early to late spring pruning. Remove dead leaves and pinch back leggy stems for bushier growth. Pruning enhances appearance, improves air circulation, and reduces pests, ensuring optimal plant health and vigor through consistent trimming.

Propagation: Chinese evergreen propagates best in Spring and Summer using cuttings, with moderate ease. Success is marked by new foliage growth. For optimal results, maintain suitable humidity and temperature conditions.

Repotting: Repot chinese evergreen annually in spring using a slightly larger pot with well-draining soil. Ensure the container has good drainage. After repotting, place chinese evergreen in low to medium light and maintain consistent moisture for optimal health and a smooth transition.

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Images of Chinese evergreen

Distribution of Chinese evergreen

Culture

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Chinese evergreen

Care Guide for Chinese evergreen

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