Aglaonema, also known as Chinese evergreen, is one of the easiest and most adaptable houseplants for indoor spaces. Known for its striking patterned leaves, low-light tolerance, and forgiving nature, aglaonema is perfect for urban apartments, offices, and homes looking for effortless greenery.

Native to tropical Southeast Asia, aglaonema thrives in indirect light and requires minimal maintenance, making it ideal for beginners and experienced plant lovers alike.

This guide covers everything you need to know about growing healthy aglaonema indoors, from choosing varieties to watering, repotting, and propagation.

Popular Aglaonema Varieties

Aglaonema varieties offer a wide range of colors, patterns, and growth habits, typically growing 1–3 feet tall indoors with upright, bushy forms. Some of the most popular choices include:

• Aglaonema 'Silver Bay': One of the most widely available varieties with silvery centers and green edges that adapts easily to low or medium light.
• Aglaonema 'Silver Queen': A classic option featuring silver-gray marbling on dark green leaves and strong tolerance for low light conditions.
• Aglaonema 'Maria' (Maria Christina): Compact growth with dark green leaves and pale veining, ideal for desks and small spaces.
• Aglaonema 'Siam Aurora': A colorful variety with red or pink leaf edges that needs brighter indirect light to maintain its vibrant tones.
• Aglaonema 'Emerald Beauty': Deep green foliage with silver accents and a reputation for being hardy and low-maintenance.
• Aglaonema 'Golden Bay': Warm golden centers and silvery margins that brighten neutral interiors.
• Aglaonema 'Wishes’: Features soft green leaves brushed with creamy white and subtle pink tones, creating a light, airy look. 
• Aglaonema ‘Valentine’: Stands out for its bold pink and red veining layered over deep green foliage. This colorful variety prefers bright, indirect light to maintain its vibrant coloring but remains low maintenance like other Chinese evergreens.

Best Light for Aglaonema

Aglaonema performs best in bright, indirect light, but it is well known for tolerating lower-light environments.

• Low light: Growth slows but foliage remains healthy
• Medium light: Ideal for most varieties
• Bright indirect light: Enhances color in variegated or red varieties
• Direct sun: Can scorch leaves

This makes aglaonema one of the best houseplants for apartments with limited natural light.

How Often to Water Aglaonema Indoors

Water aglaonema when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry. These plants prefer evenly moist soil but do not tolerate soggy roots.

• Tips:
• Use well-draining soil and pots with drainage holes
• Water thoroughly and discard excess runoff
• Reduce watering frequency during winter

Aglaonema is drought-tolerant and adapts well to occasional missed waterings.

When and How to Repot Aglaonema

Repot aglaonema every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the container.

Steps:

1. Choose a pot one size (~2" in diameter) larger 
2. Use a loose, well-draining indoor plant mix
3. Gently loosen root ball before replanting
4. Water lightly after repotting

Spring and early summer are the best times to repot for active growth.

Humidity and Temperature Needs for Aglaonema

Aglaonema prefers moderate humidity and warm indoor temperatures.

• Ideal temperature: 65–85°F
• Avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature changes
• Increase humidity with humidifier or pebble trays

These tropical plants thrive in stable indoor environments common in city homes.

How to Propagate Aglaonema

Aglaonema can be propagated through division or stem cuttings.

Propagation methods:

1. Divide root clumps during repotting
2. Take stem cuttings with nodes and root in water or soil

Roots typically develop within a few weeks, making aglaonema easy to share or multiply.

Common Aglaonema Questions: FAQ

Should you bottom water aglaonema?
Bottom watering can help hydrate soil evenly and reduce fungus gnats. Allow the pot to sit in shallow water for 15–20 minutes, then drain thoroughly.

What does an overwatered aglaonema look like?
Signs include:

• Yellowing leaves
• Soft or drooping stems
• Mushy roots or foul smell

Overwatering is the most common cause of aglaonema decline.

How can I tell if my aglaonema is underwatered?
Underwatered plants may show:

• Drooping leaves
• Dry or curling leaf edges
• Soil pulling away from the pot

A deep watering usually restores plant health quickly.

How long can aglaonema go without water?
Most aglaonema can go 1–2 weeks between waterings depending on pot size, light, and temperature.

Are aglaonema toxic to pets?
Yes. Aglaonema contains calcium oxalate crystals and is toxic to pets and humans if ingested. Keep plants out of reach of pets or choose pet-safe alternatives.

Shop Aglaonema at Chelsea Garden Center

Aglaonema is a perfect choice for adding color and texture to indoor spaces with minimal maintenance. Whether you want a bold statement plant or a compact desktop companion, our team at Chelsea Garden Center can help you find the right variety for your home.

Explore our curated selection in-store or online and elevate your indoor plant collection today.