Polka Dot Plant
aglaonema commutatum
Also known as: ["Chinese Evergreen","Spotted Evergreen"]
Overview
A tropical evergreen perennial with striking variegated foliage, native to the Philippines and other parts of Southeast Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","low maintenance","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Alismatales |
| Family: | Araceae |
| Genus: | Aglaonema |
| Botanical Name: | Aglaonema commutatum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a bright, shaded area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: every 1–2 weeks to maintain humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with peat, perlite, and organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than 20% of foliage at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates lower light but may grow slower.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate to brighter light gradually; avoid direct sun to prevent leaf burn; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
low to medium indirect light
Rotate plant monthly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct light; avoid drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Allow soil to dry partially between waterings; avoid overwatering; ensure proper drainage.
Soil
well-draining, peat-based potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Ideal range 65–80°F (18–27°C); prefers stable temperatures, avoiding extremes.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; keep away from heating/cooling vents; maintain consistent room temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring–summer)
Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to remove excess salts; apply fertilizer to moist soil.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with nodes in water or moist soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem.
- Cut below node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Maintain moisture.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light with consistent moisture.
Medium
Peat-based potting mix or water with occasional root hormone application.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, water or soil medium.
Quick Tips
Use stems with at least one node; maintain high humidity; change water if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a leaf node or junction; remove yellow or damaged leaves at the base.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy stems and yellow leaves to encourage bushier growth and maintain aesthetics.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; cut above nodes; remove dead/damaged leaves; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring or early summer before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; promotes fresh soil and growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots if necessary; use fresh soil.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water evenly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with chunky components.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf discoloration (yellowing/browning), wilting, or stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer spot; insulate from drafts; avoid cold water during watering.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or dehydration if exposed to excessive heat or dry air.
Solution: Increase humidity; provide shade; water more frequently but avoid overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are particularly sensitive to the calcium oxalate crystals in Aglaonema commutatum, which can cause severe oral and gastrointestinal irritation, potentially leading to systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Aglaonema commutatum can lead to oral irritation, gastrointestinal upset, and potential respiratory distress due to the presence of calcium oxalate crystals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicAglaonema commutatum contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause severe irritation and inflammation upon ingestion. The crystals are needle-like and can penetrate mucous membranes, leading to pain and swelling.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Aglaonema commutatum toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Aglaonema commutatum?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 1-2 weeks depending on conditions.
Q: Does Aglaonema commutatum need direct sunlight?
A: No, it thrives in indirect light or partial shade and can tolerate low-light conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Araceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | low to medium indirect light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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