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Tolerates low light (more than 8 feet from a window, or a north-facing room. A grow light 10-12 inches away works great if your windows are not cutting it) better than almost any other houseplant, but grows best in bright indirect light (3-6 feet from a south or west window, or right next to an east window. Under a grow light, 6-10 inches away works well). Never place in direct sun (right in the window where sun actually hits the leaves. A strong grow light 4-6 inches away can substitute). It is a classic choice for windowless offices when supplemented with fluorescent light.Light
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Keep soil evenly moist but never waterlogged. Overwatering causes root rot; underwatering causes yellowing leaves.Water
Prefers moderate to high humidity (60-80%. Group your plants together, set them on a pebble tray with water, or run a humidifier nearby) but tolerates typical dry indoor air better than most tropical plants. misting (note: misting does not actually raise humidity meaningfully. A pebble tray or humidifier is more effective) or a pebble tray helps in heated rooms.Humidity
Ideal range is 60-85°F (15-29°C). Sensitive to temperatures below 50°F and to cold drafts from air conditioning vents.Temperature
easyDifficulty
Chinese Evergreen plant

Chinese Evergreen

Aglaonema modestum

Easy

Aglaonema modestum is one of the most forgiving houseplants you can own -- it tolerates low light, dry air, drafty offices, and occasional neglect without complaint. Its glossy deep green leaves have been grown as luck-bringing ornamentals in Asian homes for centuries, long before anyone called them 'houseplants.' The catch is that all parts of the plant contain calcium oxalate crystals, so keep it away from pets and small children who might chew on the foliage.

Care Guide

How to grow Chinese Evergreen

Light

Tolerates low light (more than

Water

Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.

Humidity

60-80%

Temperature

60-85°F

Soil

Well-draining loamy potting mix with

Propagation

Stem cuttings with at least

Common Problems

Spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids

Did You Know

Fun Facts

The 1989 NASA Clean Air Study listed Aglaonema modestum in its top ten air-purifying plants, finding it effective at removing formaldehyde and benzene from indoor air.

Pet Safety

Toxic to pets

Toxic to humans, cats, and dogs. Contains calcium oxalate crystals that cause burning and swelling of the mouth, throat irritation, vomiting, and diarrhea. Listed as toxic by ASPCA.

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