Chris Buckland
Introduction
A houseplant is kept in indoor spaces for decorative and health purposes. Gardening enthusiasts grow various species of plants that can be kept indoors. There are many different species of indoor plants that are distinctive in their own way.
Chinese Evergreen is a species of plant that belongs to the arum family that is mostly found in Northern Africa and Southern Europe. This is the most commonly used indoor plant because of its multiple benefits.
Chinese Evergreen is commonly known as Aglaonema. The word Aglaonema originates from the Greek language and this word can be further broken into two parts i.e., ‘aglos’ meaning shining and ‘nema’ meaning thread.
The plant is used as a symbol of luck and abundance making it well-known among plant lovers. The first thing a person usually notices about this plant is its uniquely shaped leaves.
It is popular among individuals because it can be kept in poor light also and is basically low-maintenance which means that Chinese Evergreen care is quite effortless. If you are someone with little or no knowledge of plants then Chinese Evergreen is the most suitable option for you.
This plant can brighten up your space by introducing mesmerising colours of its distinctive leaves. The plant has many purposes and this blog explores the pros and cons of keeping this plant in your houses.
Characteristics Table
| Botanical Name | Aglaonema Commutatum |
| Maintenance | Low Maintenance |
| Light | It can easily adapt to medium or bright light |
| Temperature | favourable temperature is 21° – 22°C but can tolerate temperature between 50°C- 55° C |
| Water | Low or Medium. Prefers humidity |
| Toxicity | The plant can be toxic as it contains calcium oxalate crystals that are poisonous to humans and animals. |
| Growth Patterns | Vining or Trailing |
| Maximum Size | Full length; 3 – 5feet |
1. About the Plant
Chinese Evergreen is botanically known as Aglaonema Commutatum because of the drooping leaves. Like many other houseplants it is quite easier to take care of Chinese Evergreen because it does not demand specific light conditions to grow and thrive.
In its natural habitat the plant has the tendency to grow upto three feet but in some cases it can also grow to five feet. The adaptability of the plant to grow in low levels of light makes it popular among people.
Every type of plant requires a different soil where it can grow and bloom properly. Chinese Evergreen demands a soil that is light and well-draining.
It belongs to the species of plants that have the tendency to bloom. Chinese Evergreen is a plant that blooms in summers and spring because of the ideal conditions. It has a unique flowering arrangement like there are small white or sometimes greenish-white flowers that are spiky in shape.
2. How to Care for the Plant
Like any other plant, Chinese Evergreen does not require water on top of a few inches of soil. Apart from this fertilisation is also an important step for basic care for the plant. It should be fertilized with an organic fertilizer after every two to three weeks, especially in summer and spring. An indirect source of light and ample amount of humidity can help the plant to flourish.
Temperature also plays a vital role in taking care of this plant. The temperature should be kept warm because there are high chances that the plant may wilt in hot or extremely hot temperatures.
The soil of the plant should be well-drained and slightly acidic so that the roots can grow to optimal length. The soil of a plant is the area where the roots originate so for proper growth of the plant the soil should meet the ideal requirements.
3. Where to Place it in your Home/ Ideas to add to the look of your Home
Indoor plants can completely transform your space making it fresh by releasing adequate amounts of oxygen. Chinese Evergreen Care can increase the aesthetic of your space if you place it near a window. It can also be placed near a reading corner where you can relax and lighten your mood.
If you are someone with a balcony that is empty then now is the perfect time to garnish it with this plant. A balcony is a place where you can have a cup of tea or where you can sit with a friend so it should have the perfect ambiance. Plants like Chinese Evergreen have the ability to modify your dull balcony into something eye-catching.
We all know how the virus has completely disrupted our daily routines by introducing the option to work from home. In this situation, it is extremely important to have your own workspace in your house.
Chinese Evergreen can be used to decorate the office space because it helps in maximising productivity and increases focus. Your workspace should be the place where you feel elated, energised, and enthusiastic so that you can perform in a better way.
4. Common Plant Diseases for the Plant in Question
Bacterial blight is a common disease among this houseplant and it damages the plant by spreading rapidly below the soil line. Bacterial blight is a disease in which dark green spots appear on the leaves. It can be cured by adequately watering the plant and keeping it away from infected leaves. As a result, the growth of the plant is stunted and the leaves become yellow.
Other than this, pseudomonas leaf spot is also a frequent disease that hinders the growth of Chinese Evergreen. It infects the leaves of the plant by making them yellow and red in colour.
Both diseases can be cured by taking simple measures like changing the position of the plant. Placing the plant in a cool and dry environment with proper sunlight can help in restoring the health of the plant.
Magnesium deficiency is also a habitual disease that occurs in this plant and in this situation v-shaped spots of yellow colour develop on the leaves. Plants that are kept in extremely cold locations have to undergo this disease. Nevertheless, it can be prevented by spraying the leaves with magnesium sulphate.
5. Benefits of Having it as an Indoor Plant
Breathing in fresh air is a blessing and a houseplant like Chinese Evergreen removes harmful toxins from the air.
It absorbs harmful chemicals in the air because the air we breathe in is filled with many pollutants. Harmful toxins in the air can result in eye, nose, and throat infections. Chinese Evergreen is a natural purifier that cleans naturally cleans the air in an organic way.
It also helps in uplifting the mood and reduces stress and fatigue. Taking care of plants reduces psychological and physiological stress.
People with mental illnesses should start indoor gardening because the activity has proved to be therapeutic. When you look after a plant in a serene setting it becomes easier to heal.
Chinese Evergreen also increases productivity which further results in job satisfaction. Stress and anxiety are common emotions that every employee feels at some point and indoor plants create a relaxed and peaceful work environment and yields better output.
6. Risks (If any, with solution)
If you are an animal lover who has all kinds of pets then you have to remain cautious with this plant because it can turn out to be extremely poisonous for cats and dogs. Despite the fact that dogs and cats are mostly predators, they are also inquisitive animals who frequently snack on plants. You’ve certainly noticed your dog eating a handful of grass in the yard and occasionally tasting a wildflower.
There’s still the risk that a pet will test out a home plant or even eat it, which can be catastrophic in the event of Chinese Evergreen consumption. If the pet swallows it, it can cause severe swelling and infection in the throat and tongue. In some cases, it can also result in kidney failure and coma.
This risk can be prevented by placing the plant at a height or hanging it on the ceiling.
7. Ending
Houseplants like Chinese Evergreen are frequently used in modern interiors to enhance the aesthetics of a space. Plants provide numerous health benefits and they also freshen up your home by adding different hues of greens. Indoor plants offer depth, colour, and smell to your house while aesthetically softening the nooks. They also have acoustic qualities, which help to suppress sound.
An indoor garden may be a haven from the outside environment and a cause of tremendous joy for several people. Introducing specific plants into your home, regardless if you live in a little apartment or a large house, will start improving your overall health. Indoor plants are useful and attractive, and they will improve your life.
Please read this article on “What is High Humidity and How to Increase Humidity for Your Houseplants” to find out how to increase humidity for these plants.
FAQs
Is Chinese evergreen an indoor plant?
No, Chinese evergreen is not for indoor use. It is toxic and can cause lung irritations and eye damage.It is a common misconception that indoor plants will not cause health problems.
It is easy to forget that these plants need special care and to neglect watering or lighting. They can also be poisonous or irritable. Yes, they will be adorable in your home, but it’s important to know that they are not safe for your health.
Can Chinese evergreen plant grow without sunlight?
Yes, Chinese evergreen can grow with or without sunlight. They can be grown indoors or outdoors. It is best to provide partial sunlight when growing these plants. The plant has dark colored leaves and would require less light than other plants.
How long does a Chinese evergreen plant live?
Chinese evergreen are a type of houseplant that can last anywhere between 5 and 20 years. The exact lifespan will vary depending on the type of plant you have, its care requirements, and the conditions in which it is kept.
The main factors that affect the life of your Chinese evergreen are sunlight, temperature, and soil quality. Plants that are located in bright sunlight tend to have shorter lifespans than those in more shaded areas. Additionally, plants that are grown in cold temperatures tend to have shorter lifespans than those in warm areas. Finally, plants grown in poor quality soil tend to have shorter lifespans than those grown in high-quality soil.
