About

Aglaonema modestum is an upright, evergreen perennial featuring glossy, dark green leaves that measure around 20 cm in length with undulating edges. The leaves are supported by petioles that range from 10 to 20 cm. During the summer months, it may produce subtle green flowers. This plant thrives as a houseplant in locations with indirect sunlight.

About the genus

Aglaonema consists of rhizomatous evergreen perennials characterized by short stems that support long-stalked leaves, which frequently exhibit appealing variegation. The plant produces inconspicuous flowering spathes that are typically greenish or cream in color.

Growing conditions

Sunlight

Partial shade

Soil type

Loam, Sand

Soil pH

Acid, Alkaline, Neutral

Soil moisture

Moist but well-drained

Aspect

East-facing, South-facing, West-facing

Exposure

Sheltered

UK hardiness

H1B

Plant details

Plant type

Houseplants, Conservatory Greenhouse

Habit

Clump forming

Foliage

Evergreen

Height

0.5-1 metres

Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Time to full height

2-5 years

Suggested uses

Houseplants

Native to

S China, N Laos, N Thailand

Toxicity

Humans/Pets: Harmful if eaten, skin/eye irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants

Care notes

Cultivation

Grow as a house or conservatory plant in houseplant compost, position the plants in bright, filtered light. Direct sun may scorch the foliage. Water moderately; allow some drying out in between applications in winter. Mist daily and apply a balanced liquid fertiliser monthly during the growing season. Pot on every 2-3 years. See houseplant cultivation for further information

Pruning

No pruning required

Propagation

Propagate by separating basal shoots with 3 or 4 leaves, ideally with roots attached, or divide in spring

Pest resistance

May be susceptible to mealybugs

Disease resistance

May be susceptible to stem and root rots in very wet compost