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Chinese Evergreen care

Aglaonema

Chinese Evergreen — Aglaonema houseplant

Lush, pointed leaves patterned in silver and green — and one of the most tolerant houseplants there is. The Chinese Evergreen shrugs off low light and forgetful waterers, making it a quiet workhorse for dim corners.

Heads up — Chinese Evergreen is toxic to cats and dogs per ASPCA data. Keep it out of reach of pets, and check our toxicity checker for pet-safe alternatives.

Light

Low to medium indirect light is where it shines — it's one of the few plants that genuinely thrives in a dim room. Variegated and pink/red varieties hold their color best with a bit more light.

Keep it out of direct sun, which scorches the leaves.

Water

Water when the top couple inches of soil feel dry. It holds a little moisture in its stems, so it forgives a missed watering better than it forgives soggy soil.

Reduce in winter when growth slows.

Soil & pot

A well-draining potting mix with some perlite. A drainage hole is essential.

Humidity & temperature

It likes average to high humidity but adapts to normal homes. Keep it warm — 65–80°F — and away from cold drafts, which cause brown patches.

Propagation

Divide the plant at the roots when repotting, or root a stem cutting in water. Both are reliable and fairly quick.

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AskThumbs provides general educational hobby information, not guarantees. Plant and pet outcomes depend on factors we can't see. Use at your own risk. For a sick pet, call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) immediately.