Jan 23, 2026

Aglaonema Care Guide: Colorful, Low-Maintenance Foliage for Every Home

If you want a houseplant that delivers color without demanding constant attention, Aglaonemas are hard to beat. Often called Chinese Evergreens, these tropical favorites are loved for their bold patterns, forgiving nature, and ability to thrive in a wide range of indoor conditions.

From silvery greens to vibrant reds, pinks, and camouflage-style variegation, Aglaonemas offer visual interest even in spaces with lower light. Their easygoing care makes them a smart choice for beginners, offices, bedrooms, and anyone who wants beautiful foliage without stress.

In this complete grower’s guide, we’ll cover general Aglaonema care with a special spotlight on one of the most striking varieties available today, Aglaonema Pictum Tricolor.

Featured Variety: Aglaonema Pictum Tricolor

Aglaonema Pictum Tricolor is one of the most sought-after Aglaonema varieties, prized for its unique camouflage-like foliage. Each leaf displays a mix of light, medium, and dark green tones, creating a pattern that looks almost painted by hand.

Native to Sumatra, Pictum Tricolor is slower growing than many modern hybrids and prefers higher humidity and stable conditions. While it requires a bit more patience, it rewards careful growers with some of the most distinctive foliage in the houseplant world.

Other standout varieties include:

Aglaonema ‘Red Valentine’ – Pink and green mottled leaves
Aglaonema ‘Silver Bay’ – Silvery center with dark green edges
Aglaonema ‘Golden Madonna’ – Bright gold-green variegation
Aglaonema ‘Siam Aurora’ – Bright red stems and margin

Aglaonema Care Tips

Light

Aglaonemas are adaptable plants that tolerate low light, but they grow best in medium to bright indirect light.

For strong color and healthy growth:

Use bright, filtered light to maintain intense variegation
Avoid direct sun, which can scorch the leaves

Tip: Green-leaved Aglaonemas handle low light better than heavily variegated types. Varieties with red, pink, or patterned foliage need brighter conditions to maintain their color. Direct sunlight should always be avoided, as it can scorch the leaves. Aglaonemas are perfect for east-facing windows, bright corners, or under LED grow lights.

Water

Aglaonemas prefer evenly moist soil but are sensitive to excess water.

Watering tips:

Water when the top 2 inches of soil feel dry
Always allow excess water to drain away
Reduce watering frequency during cooler months

Signs of overwatering:

Overwatered Aglaonemas often develop yellowing lower leaves, soft or mushy stems, and roots that begin to rot below the soil surface. Soil may develop a sour odor. If this happens, allow the soil to dry more between waterings and improve drainage.

Signs of underwatering:

Underwatered plants may show curling or drooping leaves with crisp brown edges. Growth can slow as the plant conserves energy. Water thoroughly and return to a more consistent watering routine.

Quick Tip: Aglaonemas are more tolerant of slight dryness than excess moisture, so when in doubt, wait a day before watering.

Soil

Aglaonemas grow best in a light, well-draining potting mix that holds some moisture without becoming compacted.

Suggested soil blend:

50% high-quality potting soil – Serves as the base, providing essential structure and moderate moisture retention. Look for peat- or coco-based mixes with minimal filler.
25% perlite – Improves drainage and airflow by creating air pockets in the soil, helping prevent root rot.
15% coco coir or peat moss – Enhances moisture retention while keeping the mix light and breathable.
10% orchid bark or pumice – Adds structure and chunkiness, encouraging healthy root growth and better oxygen flow.
This combination supports strong root development while reducing the risk of soggy soil, making it ideal for Aglaonemas and other low to moderate water tropical plants.

Humidity & Temperature

Aglaonemas prefer moderate to high humidity but adapt well to typical indoor conditions.

Ideal humidity: 50 to 70%

They can tolerate levels down to about 40%, though leaf tips may brown in very dry air.

Tips to increase humidity:

Use a humidifier nearby
Group with other plants
Place pot on a pebble tray
Keep away from heat vents or AC units

Temperature range: 65 to 85°F (18 to 29°C)

Temperatures below 55°F can cause damage or dieback.

Fertilizer

Feed Aglaonemas during periods of active growth to support lush foliage and sturdy stems.

Fertilizing tips:

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer (10-10-10 or 20-20-20)
Apply every 4 to 6 weeks in spring and summer
Reduce or stop feeding in fall and winter unless the plant is under grow lights

Quick Tip: Overfertilizing can lead to salt buildup and brown leaf tips, so dilute to half strength if unsure.

Repotting Aglaonema

Aglaonemas are slow growers and typically need repotting every 2 to 3 years, or when roots begin circling the pot.

How to repot:

Choose a pot 1 to 2 inches wider than the current container
Gently remove the plant and loosen compacted roots
Refresh with new soil mix
Water well and place in bright, indirect light

Quick Tip: Removing older or damaged leaves during repotting helps keep the plant looking fresh.

Propagation Methods

Aglaonemas are easy to propagate through division or stem cuttings.

Stem cuttings:

Cut a healthy stem just below a node using clean shears
Place the cutting in water or moist soil
Roots typically form within 2 to 4 weeks

Division:

Separate clumps at the root level during repotting
Each division should have several leaves and healthy roots
Pot separately and keep slightly humid while establishing

Aglaonema Pictum Tricolor is most often propagated by division, as it can be slow to root from cuttings.

Common Pests

Aglaonemas are generally low-pest plants but may occasionally attract:

Spider mites, which cause webbing and dusty-looking leaves
Mealybugs, seen as white cottony clusters
Scale insects, appearing as brown bumps on stems
Fungus gnats, usually linked to consistently wet soil

Solutions:

Neem oil or insecticidal soap weekly
Remove pests with a cotton swab and rubbing alcohol
Let soil dry more between waterings to reduce fungus gnats

Styling & Display Tips

Highlight Aglaonema Pictum Tricolor in matte black or white ceramic pots to emphasize its pattern
Use colorful hybrids like Siam Aurora as desk or entryway accents
Group with solid green plants to create contrast
Works beautifully in both minimalist and jungle-style interiors

With their upright, bushy growth habit, Aglaonemas are well suited for plant stands, bookshelves, and floor planters.

Final Thoughts

Aglaonemas are the definition of easy beauty. They offer vibrant foliage, adaptability to low light, and a forgiving care routine that suits both beginners and experienced growers. Whether you choose a classic green variety or a rare standout like Pictum Tricolor, Aglaonemas bring color and calm to nearly any indoor space.

With consistent watering, stable temperatures, and the right light, these plants will reward you with long-lasting foliage that looks good year-round.

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