Aglaonema nitidum
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Aglaonema nitidum

Aglaonema aroid · Burmese evergreen · Chinese Evergreen

Tier 1 Difficulty: easy Water: low Light: full_shade
Water every
7 days
Temperature
20–37 °C
Soil pH
5–6
Hardiness
Zone 10–11
Click count
433
Observations
290

Description

Source: leafsnap

Aglaonema nitidum, commonly known as Chinese evergreen, is a popular houseplant native to Southeast Asia. This perennial herb belongs to the Araceae family and can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. It features glossy, dark green leaves adorned with silver markings and can produce small white flowers under optimal conditions. Chinese evergreen thrives in bright but indirect light and prefers well-draining soil coupled with regular watering. While it can tolerate low light environments, it may not grow as vigorously or produce flowers as readily. This plant is also valued for its air-purifying properties, as it effectively removes toxins such as formaldehyde from the air, making it an excellent choice for indoor spaces like offices and homes. Traditionally, Aglaonema nitidum has been used in medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties, and it may offer health benefits when consumed in small amounts under medical supervision. In summary, Aglaonema nitidum is an attractive and low-maintenance houseplant that offers numerous aesthetic and functional benefits.

Care Guide

💧 Water Every 7 days

The Chinese Evergreen flourishes in humid, tropical rainforest environments and can withstand short periods of dryness. It needs to be watered weekly and is an evergreen plant, meaning it retains its leaves throughout the year to absorb moisture, even during dry seasons.

Suggested frequency: Every 7 days
☀️ Light Full shade

Chinese Evergreen is native to habitats such as forest understories or rocky locations that offer natural shade. It prefers Full Shade but can tolerate Partial Sun.

Ideal: Full shade
FAQ
What are the sunlight requirements for a Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema nitidum)?

Chinese Evergreen requires careful consideration when it comes to sunlight exposure. For those areas receiving less than 3 hours of sunlight, you're looking at full shade conditions, which is suitable for this plant. On the other hand, if a spot gets about 3-6 hours of sunlight, it falls into the partial sun category. It's important to observe how sunlight traverses your garden throughout the day. Selecting the ideal location provides a balance of light and shade, crucial for the well-being of your Chinese Evergreen.

🌡️ Temperature 20–37.8°C

Chinese Evergreen comes from tropical areas where the climate is usually warm and humid. As a result, it is well suited to high temperatures and humidity. It does not tolerate sudden temperature shifts and prefers a steady temperature range, so avoiding temperature fluctuations indoors is important. It generally cannot withstand cold and needs higher temperatures to grow. If the temperature drops too low, the plant may stop growing or even die.

Ideal temperature: 20–37.8°C
💨 Humidity
Humidity:
🪴 Soil 5-6
Soil pH: 5-6
🌱 Fertilizer

Proper fertilization is essential for Chinese Evergreen's health and appearance. Fertilize the Chinese Evergreen during summer, repeating the treatment monthly throughout the season. Nutrients fuel growth and sustain the plant's components. Fertilization improves the Chinese Evergreen's flower display, ensuring the best blooms.

🪴 Pot & Repot Once a year

Repot Chinese Evergreen in spring or summer once it’s warm enough, choosing a slightly larger pot with good drainage. Water thoroughly after repotting and place the plant in bright, indirect light. Consider adding a moss pole for support as the plant grows.

Suggested frequency: Once a year
✂️ Pruning

To keep your Chinese Evergreen healthy and looking its best, minimal pruning is needed. In early spring, concentrate on removing any yellow, damaged, or dead leaves. This will help improve air circulation and encourage healthy foliage. Be sure to use clean tools to prevent the spread of disease. Avoid heavy pruning, as it can stress the plant and compromise both its health and appearance.

🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity

Characteristics

Plant Type
Herb
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Aglaonema
Family
Araceae
Hardiness Zone
10-11
Mature Height
30 cm to 46 cm
Mature Spread
30 cm to 91 cm
Leaf Color
Dark Green, Forest Green
Leaf Type
Evergreen
Flower Color
White
Flower Size
2.03 cm to 3.05 cm
Bloom Time
Summer, Early fall
Planting Time
Spring, Summer, Autumn
Harvest Time
Late summer, Fall
Native Area
Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Myanmar, Singapore, Brunei, Thailand

Tags (5)

Common Names (3)

en Aglaonema aroid
en Burmese evergreen
en Chinese Evergreen