Aglaonema commutatum, the Chinese Evergreen, is a tough, ornamental foliage plant valued for its broad leaves splashed with silver, grey, green and pink. One of the most low-light-tolerant houseplants, it stays attractive with minimal care, making it ideal for Indian homes and offices. The compact, upright habit suits tabletops, floor pots and reception areas. Aglaonema is slow-growing, drought-forgiving and known for purifying indoor air. Newer cultivars offer striking red and pink variegation. With warm temperatures and protection from cold, it remains lush and colourful for years, rewarding beginners with consistently good looks.
Specifications
| Family |
Araceae |
| Native region |
Tropical Asia |
| Mature height |
40-90 cm |
| Mature spread |
40-70 cm |
| Growth rate |
Slow to moderate |
| Foliage |
Broad, patterned silver-green to pink/red |
| Flower colour |
Greenish-white spathe |
| Flower season |
Warm months (insignificant) |
| Climate zone |
Tropical, warm humid |
Care guide
| Sunlight |
Low to bright indirect light; no direct sun |
| Watering |
Water when top half of soil dries; avoid soggy roots |
| Soil / mix |
Well-draining mix with cocopeat and perlite |
| Temperature |
18-30 C; sensitive below 15 C |
| Humidity |
Average to high; tolerates normal room humidity |
| Fertilizer |
Light balanced feed monthly in growing season |
| Pruning |
Remove old or yellow leaves at base |
| Repotting |
Every 2-3 years; likes being slightly snug |
| Propagation |
Division or stem cuttings |
| Pests & problems |
Mealybugs, spider mites, scale occasionally |
| Toxicity / safety |
Toxic to pets and humans if ingested |
| Difficulty |
Very easy |
Uses
Decorative low-light foliage plant for homes, offices and lobbies. A reliable air-purifying gift plant that brightens dim corners.
Growing tips
Keep Aglaonema warm; it dislikes cold and air-conditioner drafts that cause leaf curling in winter. In low light the green-dominant varieties hold colour best, while pink/red types need brighter indirect light.