Common Name: Aglaonema Silver Bay, Aglaonema Red Siam, Aglaonema Emerald
Botanical Name: aglaonema commutatum ‘Spathonema’
The Chinese Evergreen ‘Spathonema’ is the perfect plant for the urban dweller. It artfully mixes copious lime green colors through each leaf for a seriously stylish look, and with its easy-care requirements, it’s the ideal fit for busy bees who need a green touch in their homes!
Light
Chinese Evergreen ‘Spathonema’ do best in bright, indirect light. Although this plant can survive in low-light conditions, it may not thrive or grow as much. Don’t allow this plant near dimly lit corners with no natural light. Also, avoid this plant being exposed to the direct sunlight, especially during the “sunniest” times of the day. You can use an artificial light source if needed. We suggest a grow light that is made for indoor plants. This will help give your plant the necessary light spectrum for growth.
Water
Your Chinese Evergreen ‘Spathonema’ should be watered every 1-2 weeks during the spring and summer. In the fall and winter, you should reduce how often you water this plant. It is important to water your plant when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch. Water the plant until you see that the water is beginning to drain from the bottom of the pot. Ensure you don’t allow the plant to sit in standing water.
Soil
Chinese Evergreen ‘Spathonema’ prefer a well-draining pot mix that lets the water to flow out easily and prevents the roots from sitting in standing water. This plant likes slightly acidic to neutral soil pH. You can use a peat-based potting mix and add perlite or vermiculite, which will enhance drainage, benefitting the plant’s root health.
Temperature
It is best for Chinese Evergreen ‘Spathonema’ plants to be in average room temperatures that are between 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C). Try to not expose your plant to temperatures that are under 60 degrees for a long amount of time, as this can cause cold damage to your plant!
Humidity
The Chinese Evergreen ‘Spathonema’ thrives most in moderate to high humidity levels. We suggest that you aim for a humidity level that is around 40% to 60%. To increase the humidity levels surrounding your plant, you can group plants together, put a tray of water near the plant. Or mist the leaves with avoid (avoiding water on the flowers)!
Fertilizer
Your Chinese Evergreen ‘Spathonema’ should be fertilized every 4-6 weeks during the spring and summer. You shouldn’t fertilize this plant in the fall and winter. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer with a ratio of 20-20-20 or similar. Don’t apply fertilizer to a dry or stressed plant, as this can lead to fertilizer burn.
Growth Rate
The mature height that Chinese Evergreen ‘Spathonema’ plants can reach on average is around 1 to 3 feet (30 to 90 cm) tall. This plants growth rate and height truly depend on factors such as light, temperature, humidity, and the care it’s provided!
Pet Friend or Foe
Chinese Evergreen ‘Spathonema’ are mildly toxic to pets! Foe!
Pro Tips
- If you noticed that your Chinese Evergreen ‘Spathonema’ is becoming a pale color, it may be a sign that your plant is getting too much light exposure.
- You should rotate your plant occasionally to make sure of even growth on all sides and to prevent it from leaning towards the light source.
- Repot this plant every few years to refresh the soil and give the plant more space!
- Increase humidity levels by misting your plant, using a humidity tray, or placing it by other plants!