Aglaonema commutatum

Chinese Evergreen, Poison Dart Plant, Philippine Evergreen

Easy careTerrestrialModerately toxic60–90 cm

A slow-growing subshrub from the humid forests of the Philippines and Sulawesi, with bold lance-shaped leaves marked by silver-grey patterns along the veins. It can tolerate very low light — one of the better houseplants for dim corners — and also does well in the consistently warm, humid conditions of a closed terrarium. Contains insoluble calcium oxalates, so keep it away from pets and children.

Build a terrarium with this plant
Chinese Evergreen image

Care

Prefers high humidity, low light, with 18–27 °C, and reaches 90 cm at maturity.

Light

Shade tolerant(preferred)Indirect light

Humidity

High (60–80%)(preferred)Medium (40–60%)

Temperature

10°C25°C40°C
18°C – 27°C

Soil

Well draining(preferred)Peat moss

Moisture

Moist(preferred)

Soil pH

5.5 – 6.5

Propagation

Take stem cuttings with at least one node and a few leaves. Root in water or moist perlite at 21–25°C with high humidity. Roots typically appear within 2–6 weeks.

Native range

Native to Malesia.

Appearance

Growth habit

UprightClumping

Leaf shape

Lance

Leaf texture

Glossy

Frequently asked

Can Chinese Evergreen grow in a closed terrarium?

Yes. Chinese Evergreen prefers high (60–80%) humidity, which is what a closed terrarium provides, and tolerates shade-tolerant conditions.

Does Chinese Evergreen need drainage?

Chinese Evergreen prefers a moist substrate. Drainage is helpful but not critical; consistent moisture matters more.

What humidity does Chinese Evergreen need?

Chinese Evergreen does best in high (60–80%) humidity.

Is Chinese Evergreen pet-safe?

Chinese Evergreen is moderately toxic if ingested — keep out of reach of pets and children.

How tall does Chinese Evergreen grow?

Chinese Evergreen typically reaches 60–90 cm at maturity.

How do you propagate Chinese Evergreen?

Chinese Evergreen can be propagated by stem cuttings or division.

References

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    NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox

    https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/aglaonema-commutatum/
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