Aglaonema ‘Tigress’

Botanical Name — Aglaonema ‘Tigress’

Common Name — Chinese Evergreen

Plant Family — Araceae

 

Background

• Aglaonema are native to subtropical regions of Asia and New Guinea. In China, they are considered ornamental plants and considered to bring good luck. 

Growth Requirements
Sun

• Aglaonema plants thrive in medium to bright light conditions. Place your plant in indirect or filtered light. Avoid full sun as this can burn the leaves. 
• Aglaonemas can also grow in low light but foliage colors may lose some of their vibrancy. 

Temperature/ Humidity 

• This plant prefers mild temperatures, between 60 and 70 ºF is ideal. Avoid cold drafts and sudden fluctuations in temperature. 
• Aglaonemas will tolerate low humidity but will thrive in humid conditions. Place a humidifier nearby or mist leaves regularly to improve ambient moisture. Creating a humid environment for this plant is especially important in the cooler, drier months of winter. 

Water

• Keep soil consistently moist, but not soggy during spring and summer. Water lightly when the top quarter of soil is dry. 
• During winter months water soil thoroughly, but allow it to dry out completely between waterings. 

Soil/Roots

• Aglaonemas are not picky about their soil. A high-quality, well-draining potting mix will do just fine. 
• Provide a soil that is moisture-retentive and rich in organic matter. Compost is an excellent amendment to improve nutrient quality. 

Flowering

• Aglaonema inflorescence bears a white spadix enclosed in a pale, green spathe. Typically flowers will bloom in late summer to early fall, though these plants rarely flower indoors. 
• Flowers are inconspicuous and can be pruned to conserve the plant's energy for foliage growth. 

Fertilization

• Fertilizer isn’t necessary to keep your Aglaonema happy, but you can feed them to give them a boost during the growing season. Feed your Aglaonema plants with a balanced fertilizer once a month, only during the growing season. 
• Compost is a great, natural fertilizer. Add a layer about half an inch thick to the top of the soil, for a slow release of nutrients into the soil. 

Propagation

• Aglaonema plants can be propagated by division when repotting the plant. Use shears or a garden spade to divide the roots. Smaller pieces can be potted up and will grow into their own plant. 

Health
Diseases

• Aglaonema are sensitive to pest infestations. They are commonly affected by scale, mealy bugs, spider mites, and insects. Check stems and under leaves regularly and treat any infestations immediately. 
• These plants can also fall victim to fungal and bacterial infections if overwatered. Avoid overwatering and prune away any unhealthy leaves. 

Maintenance (pruning, legginess, repotting)

• Aglaonema are slow-growing plants. They’ll only need to be repotted once every other year, into a container two inches larger in diameter. 

Toxicity

• Aglaonema is toxic to pets and humans. Ingestion of any parts of the plant will likely lead to stomach and mouth irritation, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.