Aglaonema

If you're new to indoor gardening or just don't want your plant to act like a diva, Aglaonema is a dream. It's beginner-friendly, forgiving, and practically thrives on mild neglect. In fact, if you forget to water it once or twice, it probably won’t even notice. A plant with zero drama? Yes, please.

Aglaonema is the poster child for low light houseplants, but it doesn’t mind medium or even bright indirect light either. Just don’t place it in harsh direct sunlight—this plant has delicate leaves that prefer filtered lighting, like a spa day with cucumbers on the eyes.

That said, if you’ve chosen a bright red or pink variety like ‘Siam Aurora’, it will need more light to maintain that fabulous color. The greener the leaf, the less light it needs. Easy enough, right?

Avoid: Direct sunlight

Tolerates: Low light (perfect for offices or shady corners)

Thrives in: Bright, indirect light (especially variegated types)

You know what Aglaonema really hates? Wet feet. (Don’t we all?) So, water only when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry. Overwatering is the fastest way to kill this plant, so when in doubt, wait it out.

During the growing season (spring/summer), water once every 1–2 weeks. In winter, pull back and let the soil dry out more between waterings.

Watering hack: Use your finger as a moisture meter. If it feels dry two inches down, it’s go-time.

Aglaonema likes humidity the way you like your coffee: not too intense, but definitely present. It’ll survive average indoor humidity, but it will thrive if you give it a light misting or keep it near a humidifier.

Ideal Temperature: 65–80°F (18–27°C)

Avoid: Cold drafts, AC vents, or temperatures below 60°F. This plant will throw a fit and drop its leaves.

Soil Type: Rich, loose mix with peat and perlite

Extra Info: These plants thrive on being just right. Moist, well-draining, and basically the Goldilocks of soil conditions.

Cue the sad trombone: Aglaonema is not pet-friendly. Like many plants in the Araceae family, it contains calcium oxalate crystals that can be toxic to cats and dogs. If your pets are prone to nibbling, place it up high or opt for a safer alternative.

Symptoms in pets include mouth irritation, drooling, and upset stomach. Call your vet if they get curious.

Placement is where Aglaonema truly shines—it’s adaptable to a variety of indoor spaces:

• Bedroom: Low light? No problem. Plus, it boosts air quality.
• Office: Tolerates artificial light and neglect.
• Bathroom: Loves the humidity (just give it some natural light).
• Living Room Corner: Elevates any aesthetic with its striking foliage.

Just keep it out of direct sun and away from cold drafts, and you’re golden.

Aglaonema isn’t demanding, but it does like to look polished. Here’s how to keep your tropical superstar in tip-top shape:

• Dust the leaves regularly with a damp cloth so it can breathe—and keep those variegated leaves poppin'.
• Prune yellowing leaves by snipping them at the base. It’s totally normal for older leaves to fade.
• Rotate the pot every few weeks for even growth, especially if it’s only getting light from one direction.