Chinese Evergreen Aglaonema commutatum
At a glance
- Light
- Medium indirect
- 500–10000 lux
- Water
- Every 7–10 days
- Top 2-3cm of soil
- Humidity
- 40–60%
- Tolerates dry air
- Temperature
- 18–27°C
- Ideal 18–24°C
- Soil pH
- 5.5–7
- well-draining
- Mature size
- 90 cm tall
- 60 cm wide
- Native to
- Tropical Asia, Philippines, Sulawesi
- Growth
- Slow
- Upright
Watering calculator
Estimate how often to water your Chinese Evergreen based on pot size, light, and season.
Always check the top 2 cm of soil before watering. Calculator output is an estimate, not a schedule.
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Click an issue to see causes and fixes for Chinese Evergreen.
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Compare with similar plants
| Trait | Chinese Evergreen Aglaonema commutatum | Dieffenbachia Dieffenbachia seguine | Peace Lily Spathiphyllum wallisii |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light | Medium indirect | Medium indirect | Medium indirect |
| Water | 7–10 days | 7–10 days | 7–10 days |
| Pet safe | Toxic to cats and dogs | Toxic to cats and dogs | Toxic to cats and dogs |
| Difficulty | Easy | Easy | Easy |
| Mature size | 90 cm | 180 cm | 75 cm |
Light requirements in detail
Chinese Evergreen prefers medium indirect (500–10000 lux) . Tolerates very low light, including offices with fluorescent-only lighting; variegation is best in bright indirect
A spot 1–2 meters from a bright east or south-facing window usually fits this range. Direct afternoon sun through unfiltered glass can scorch leaves; sheer curtains help diffuse it.
Watering in detail
Water Chinese Evergreen every 7– 10 days during the growing season, allowing Top 2-3cm of soil to dry between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter when growth slows.
Consistent moisture matters here — long dry spells will show up as crispy leaf edges.
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Frequently asked questions about Chinese Evergreen
How often should I water Chinese Evergreen?
Water Chinese Evergreen every 7–10 days during the growing season, allowing Top 2-3cm of soil to dry between waterings. Reduce frequency by 30–50% in winter.
What kind of light does Chinese Evergreen need?
Chinese Evergreen prefers medium indirect (500–10000 lux). Tolerates very low light, including offices with fluorescent-only lighting; variegation is best in bright indirect
Is Chinese Evergreen toxic to cats?
Chinese Evergreen is toxic to cats (moderate severity). Toxic compounds: insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. Common symptoms: oral irritation, intense burning of mouth, drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing.
Is Chinese Evergreen toxic to dogs?
Chinese Evergreen is toxic to dogs (moderate severity). Toxic compounds: insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. Common symptoms: oral irritation, drooling, pawing at mouth, vomiting.
How big does Chinese Evergreen grow?
Chinese Evergreen reaches about 90 cm tall and 60 cm wide at maturity. Growth rate is slow.