Chinese evergreen aglaonema leaves for a low-light room
Photo: Kevin Faccenda · CC BY 4.0
houseplant
Updated May 2026·Southeast Asia

Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)

Aglaonema commutatum

Aglaonema 'Red Siam' and other red-pigmented cultivars are among the few houseplants that produce intense color in genuine low-light environments — most colorful plants need bright light to maintain pigments.

USDA Zones
10-12 (indoor anywhere)
Sun
low light
Water
low
Mature Size
1-3 ft tall, 1-2 ft wide
Growth Rate
slow
Family
Araceae
Care guide

How to care for chinese evergreen (aglaonema)

Thrives in the darkest corner where almost nothing else grows. Water sparingly; over-watering causes yellow leaves faster than drought. Don't repot often — Aglaonema tolerates being slightly rootbound for years.

Garden uses & design ideas

Best garden use

Use Chinese evergreen as a dependable low-light anchor on a side table, office corner, or bedroom dresser, then pair it with plain green foliage so variegated leaves stay the focus.

Pair it with

Pothos, Snake plant, Peace lily make easy companion choices because they share similar light, water, or visual texture needs.

Layout tip

Match it with low light exposure, group it with other low-water plants so one irrigation zone can stay lean, and check USDA zones 10-12 (indoor anywhere) before planting. Use the garden planner to test spacing around its mature size: 1-3 ft tall, 1-2 ft wide. Regional note: It is a tropical houseplant for most climates; avoid cold windowsills, drafts, and direct sun that can scorch patterned leaves.

Gardener note — Double-check local invasive, edible, and toxicity guidance with your county extension office before planting around pets, children, or natural areas. Regional note: It is a tropical houseplant for most climates; avoid cold windowsills, drafts, and direct sun that can scorch patterned leaves. Safety note: Aglaonema can irritate mouths and skin if chewed or handled roughly, so keep it away from pets and young children and wash hands after pruning.

Companion plants

Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema) grows well alongside these — similar light, water, and texture needs.

Common pests & problems

mealybugsspider mites

Where it grows best

Native to Southeast Asia; thrives in USDA hardiness zones 10-12 (indoor anywhere).

Frequently asked about chinese evergreen (aglaonema)

What USDA zones does Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema) grow in?+

Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema) is hardy in USDA zones 10-12 (indoor anywhere). Outside these zones, it can usually be grown indoors or as a seasonal annual.

How much sun does Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema) need?+

Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema) prefers low light. Place it where it gets that light most of the day for best growth and vigor.

How often should I water Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)?+

Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema) has low water needs. Allow the soil to dry between waterings. Thrives in the darkest corner where almost nothing else grows. Water sparingly; over-watering causes yellow leaves faster than drought. Don't repot often — Aglaonema tolerates being slightly rootbound for years.

How big does Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema) get?+

Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema) reaches a mature size of 1-3 ft tall, 1-2 ft wide. Growth rate is slow, so plan spacing accordingly when planting.

What plants grow well with Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)?+

Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema) pairs well with Pothos, Snake plant, Peace lily. These companions share similar care requirements and don't compete aggressively for resources.

What pests affect Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)?+

Common Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema) problems include mealybugs; spider mites. Catching early signs in routine inspection prevents most damage.

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