Spotted Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema costatum)

Spotted Chinese Evergreen

Aglaonema costatum

Its silver-patterned leaves glow softly in low light, a quiet indoor staple. Evergreen foliage plant; common name: Spotted Chinese Evergreen.

Low light
1–2/week
Beginner
🌱

Plant Needs

☀️
Sunlight Thrives in bright indirect or low light; avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch variegated leaf tissue
💧
Watering Water only when the top 2–3 cm of soil is completely dry; overwatering leads to root rot
🌡️
Temperature Prefers consistent temperatures between 18–27°C; avoid cold drafts and temperatures below 13°C
🔍

Characteristics

  • Leaf: Oval, glossy green leaves with silvery-white variegated veins and spots; arranged in dense rosettes
  • Stem: Short, fleshy upright stems; forms tight clumps over time
  • Inflorescence: Small pale green spathe and spadix; rarely blooms in indoor cultivation
🛠️

Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil slightly moist but not waterlogged; allow top layer to dry between waterings

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid feed every 4 weeks. Avoid fertilizing in winter when growth slows to prevent salt buildup in soil

Banana peel compost tea:Steep fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 for root drench; discard solid peels to avoid pest infestations and odors
Pruning
  • Remove yellowing or damaged leaves at the base to maintain a tidy clump
  • Trim overgrown stems in spring to encourage bushier growth
  • Avoid cutting healthy variegated leaves to preserve the plant’s ornamental appearance
⚠️

Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; ingestion causes oral pain, hypersalivation, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing

Humans: Contains calcium oxalate crystals; ingestion causes oral and throat irritation, temporary swelling; mild skin irritation on contact

📖

Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Symbolizes resilience and good fortune in indoor spaces; valued for low-maintenance beauty

Usage: Indoor ornamental foliage; known to filter formaldehyde and benzene from indoor air