Costate Chinese Evergreen
aglaonema costatum
Also known as: ["Chinese Evergreen","Costate Aglaonema"]
Overview
A tropical evergreen perennial with attractive, variegated foliage, native to 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 costatum |
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 or as needed 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 few months or when dead leaves accumulate.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on removing only damaged or unwanted growth.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to lower light in winter if needed.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate to brighter light gradually; avoid direct sun to prevent leaf burn; place in east-facing windows for ideal indirect light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
low to medium indirect light
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
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 garden soil; top-dress with organic matter occasionally.
Temperature
Ideal range 65–80°F (18–27°C); prefers stable temperatures; avoid drafts or sudden changes.
Keep away from AC vents or heaters; maintain stable room temperature; monitor for signs of stress.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring–summer), none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil; division of clumps for mature plants.
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
High humidity, warm temperatures (70–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or water with occasional changes; add perlite for aeration.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, water spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a leaf node or junction; snip yellow leaves at the base.
Pruning Plan
Remove yellow or damaged leaves to maintain aesthetics and plant health; encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; cut above nodes; remove dead 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
Prepare new pot; trim roots if crowded; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting leaves to prevent fungal issues; water in the morning for optimal absorption.
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 coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with chunky components.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop; browning leaf tips in cold stress; wilting in heat stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to pests and diseases.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate from cold drafts; avoid watering excessively in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown edges; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Increase humidity with misting or pebble trays; provide shade during peak heat; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the calcium oxalate crystals in Aglaonema costatum. Ingestion can cause severe oral and gastrointestinal irritation, leading to significant discomfort and potential systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Aglaonema costatum can lead to oral irritation, gastrointestinal upset, and potential airway obstruction due to swelling. The calcium oxalate crystals cause mechanical irritation and inflammation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicAglaonema costatum 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 costatum toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Aglaonema costatum?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 1-2 weeks.
Q: Does Aglaonema costatum need direct sunlight?
A: No, it thrives in indirect or 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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