Aglaonema commutatum
Common name: Chinese evergreen · Poison dart plant
Aglaonema commutatum is an evergreen perennial in the arum family (Araceae), native to the tropical rainforests of the Philippines and northeastern Sulawesi. It forms low clumps of stems bearing lance-shaped leaves attractively variegated with silver or gray-green patterns. It is one of the most popular houseplants in the world because it tolerates low light, neglect, and dry indoor air better than almost any other foliage plant.
Care summary
Sun
Low to medium indirect light; avoid direct sun
Water
Water when top few cm of soil dry out
Soil
Well-draining, peat-based potting mix
Hardiness
Zones 10–12
Mature height
About 30–90 cm (1–3 ft)
Pet safe
No — toxic to cats and dogs
Difficulty
Easy
Propagation
Propagate by division or stem cuttings. Divide the clump at repotting, making sure each section has roots and leaves, or take a stem cutting with a few nodes and root it in water or moist potting mix.
Fun facts
- Its insoluble calcium oxalate crystals make all parts of the plant irritating if chewed, hence the name "poison dart plant."
- NASA's Clean Air Study listed aglaonemas among houseplants that help remove indoor air pollutants such as benzene and formaldehyde.
- Dozens of cultivars exist, including 'Silver Bay' and 'Maria', bred for brighter silver variegation.
- In its native habitat it grows on the shaded rainforest floor, which is why it copes so well with dim rooms.