Aglaonema modestum image • Photo: Author JLHA3050• CC BY-SA 3.0
Chinese Evergreen
Aglaonema modestum
Aglaonema modestum is a tropical evergreen plant growing 30–90 cm (1–3 ft) tall and 60–120 cm (2–4 ft) wide, featuring lance-shaped leaves measuring 200 mm × 100 mm (8 in × 4 in) on 300 mm (12 in) stalks. It produces occasional white spathe-and-spadix flowers followed by oval-shaped reddish fruits 25–75 mm (1–3 in) long. The plant grows from a central rosette and is valued for its lush foliage, with leaves emerging directly from the soil in a dense clumping pattern. Its ability to thrive in low-light conditions makes it distinct among tropical foliage plants.
Plant Care Overview
Care Guide
Essential requirements for your Aglaonema modestum
Light Requirements
Bright indirect light to low light (cannot tolerate direct sunlight)
Light conditions can affect leaf color and growth rate. Adjust placement as needed based on your plant's response.
Watering Schedule
Water when top inch of soil dries out (reduce slightly in winter)
Humidity Needs
high humidity
Always check soil moisture before watering. Adjust frequency based on your home's conditions.
Temperature Range
18-27°C (65-80°F); avoid temperatures below 7°C (45°F)
Native Climate
Native to Tropical swamps and rainforests of Bangladesh, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and southeast/south-central China
Keep away from drafts, heaters, and air conditioners which can stress your plant.
Soil Type
Well-draining potting mix
Fertilizer
Balanced houseplant fertilizer during growing season
Consider repotting every 1-2 years to refresh soil nutrients and accommodate growth.
Propagation
Methods to grow more Aglaonema modestum plants
Propagation methods for this plant are not available yet.
Plant Info
Characteristics and background information
Tropical swamps and rainforests of Bangladesh, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and southeast/south-central China
moderate
30-90 cm tall, 60-120 cm wide
Perennial
Toxic to pets
Indoor Blooming
This plant can produce flowers indoors when given proper care.
Flower Description
White spathe-and-spadix inflorescence typical of aroids, with a hood-like bract surrounding a central spike
Fun Fact
Its Chinese common name 'green-for-ten-thousand-years' reflects its cultural association with longevity and enduring beauty.
Troubleshooting
Solutions for typical issues with your Aglaonema modestum
Foliage damage, discoloration, or wilting when exposed to temperatures below 7°C (45°F)
Yellowing leaves, root rot during rest period
Burned or bleached patches on leaves
Community Tips
Advice shared by other plant enthusiasts
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Care Guides
Detailed guides for caring for your Aglaonema modestum
Low Light Plants Care Guide
Learn how to care for low light plants like your Aglaonema modestum
Tropical Plants Plants Care Guide
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Humidity Lovers Plants Care Guide
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Low Maintenance Plants Care Guide
Learn how to care for low maintenance plants like your Aglaonema modestum
Foliage Plants Plants Care Guide
Learn how to care for foliage plants plants like your Aglaonema modestum
Flowering Plants Plants Care Guide
Learn how to care for flowering plants plants like your Aglaonema modestum
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