Aglaonema modestum
Common name: Chinese evergreen · Green aglaonema
Aglaonema modestum is an evergreen perennial herb in the arum family (Araceae), native to the shaded tropical forests of southeastern China, Laos, Vietnam, and Thailand. It has dark green, lance-shaped leaves on short stems arising from a creeping base, and occasionally produces a pale spathe-and-spadix inflorescence typical of the family. Long cultivated in Asia as a symbol of good fortune, it is now a classic low-light houseplant worldwide.
Care summary
Sun
Low indirect light to bright shade
Water
Keep evenly moist; let surface dry slightly
Soil
Humus-rich, well-drained 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. Separate rooted offshoots from the creeping base at repotting, or root stem cuttings in water or moist soil in a warm, shaded spot.
Fun facts
- It has been grown in China for centuries and is traditionally associated with good luck and prosperity.
- It was one of the first foliage plants widely used in Western interior landscaping because it survives deep shade.
- The flowers are a small greenish-white spathe, often hidden among the leaves, and can be followed by red berries.
- It is sometimes grown hydroponically in water-filled vases, an old practice in parts of southern China.