Round-leaf Chinese Evergreen
aglaonema rotundum
Also known as: ["Chinese Evergreen","Round-leaf Aglaonema"]
Overview
A tropical evergreen perennial with rounded, dark green leaves often marked with silver or white patterns.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","low maintenance","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Alismatales |
| Family: | Araceae |
| Genus: | Aglaonema |
| Botanical Name: | Aglaonema rotundum |
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 or coco coir for moisture retention.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every few months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove only damaged or overgrown parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate 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 weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct light; avoid south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Allow soil to dry 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 occasionally.
Temperature
Ideal range 65–80°F (18–27°C); prefers stable temperatures; avoid drafts and sudden changes.
Avoid placing near vents or windows; 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.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Maintain moisture and warmth.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or water with occasional changes.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone (optional), container, water or soil medium.
Quick Tips
Use a healthy, non-flowering stem; keep medium consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a leaf node or junction; trim leggy growth to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and health; encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; cut at the right angle; remove only necessary parts; 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 with drainage; 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 foliage; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility; ensure aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf discoloration (yellowing or browning), wilting, or stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf drop or damage; vulnerable to root rot in cold, wet soil.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; ensure soil is not overly wet.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or dehydration; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Increase humidity; provide shade; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; use diluted fertilizer; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
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 highly sensitive to the calcium oxalate crystals in Aglaonema rotundum. Ingestion can result in 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 rotundum can lead to significant oral and gastrointestinal distress due to the presence of calcium oxalate crystals. The plant's toxins can cause severe irritation and inflammation of the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicAglaonema rotundum contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause severe irritation and inflammation upon ingestion. The physiological impact includes mechanical damage to the mucous membranes and potential systemic effects if large quantities are consumed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Aglaonema rotundum toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Aglaonema rotundum?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 1-2 weeks.
Q: Does Aglaonema rotundum need direct sunlight?
A: No, it thrives in low to medium indirect light and can tolerate shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Araceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | low to medium indirect light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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