Family: Aracea
Common Name: Chinese Evergreen Tigress
Botanical Name: Aglaonema Commutatum ‘Tigress’
It is easy to get lured in by this temptress of an indoor plant. The bold leaf pattern on the elliptical leaves of this chinese evergreen is beautiful and exotic, like a tiger's fur. Beyond being a gorgeous addition to your plant collection, this houseplant will do well in virtually any home or office because it is incredibly adaptable to most interior lighting and can even thrive under fluorescent lights!
Are you looking for a houseplant that can tolerate almost any indoor condition? Ranking high on the "easy-care houseplant" list, the aglaonema makes a perfect office plant because it accepts low light, grows well in bright spots, and tolerates fluorescent lighting. The chinese evergreen starts small enough to fit on desks and tabletops and will remain there for a while because it's a slow-growing plant. However, over time it will get big and become a floor plant (and a good excuse for a bigger office!).
You can quickly propagate your aglaonema by root division when you re-pot. Keep in mind that the more color variations on the leaves, the more light it will need to retain its markings. Also, even though Chinese Evergreen 'Tigress' tolerates a lot, it will thrive if exposed to the medium to bright, indirect light. To help this plant flourish, cut the flowers off as they siphon `growing power' from the leaves to encourage more foliar growth.
Light
Green varieties of aglaonema can tolerate low light, but the variegated ones will maintain their luster in medium to bright, indirect sunlight. Never place them in direct sunlight. They can grow under fluorescent lighting, making them ideal for offices and interior low-light spaces.
Water
Tigress needs regular watering in the growing season (spring through summer) and less water in the winter. Water chinese evergreens less often when growing in low light; indoor plants placed in brighter spots will require more frequent watering. These plants don't like being soggy, so wait until the top two inches of soil are dry, and then water thoroughly. Never let the roots sit in standing water; ensure the pot has proper drainage.
Soil
Potting soil rich in nutrients and organic matter but still can drain well is the perfect growing medium for aglaonemas. Most coco coir or peat-based potting soil mixes will be adequate but make sure that they do not contain water-retentive crystals as they can cause the soil to stay moist, causing root rot continually. If you are feeling adventurous, try creating your own potting soil!
Temperature
Aglaonema houseplants prefer to live in temperatures of 60℉ and up. Keep them away from cold drafts, air conditioning, and heating vents as they're cold-sensitive.
Humidity
Aglaonema potted plants can tolerate typical household humidity levels. If the tips of the leaves turn brown, it means the air is too dry, and you should increase the humidity with a humidifier. Trays filled with pebbles and water can also help increase the humidity immediately surrounding your plants, as can group your indoor plants together.
Fertilizer
Aglaonemas don't require much food, but will benefit from the occasional treat! Use a complete liquid fertilizer, fish/seaweed emulsion, or slow-release fertilizer every three weeks in the growing season (spring through summer). Learn how to read the signs that your plants need to be fertilized!
Growth Rate
A healthy Chinese Evergreen can reach a height of 3'+ and a width of 3'+ with the proper care!
Pet Friend or Foe
The Chinese Evergreen Tigress is not a pet-friendly plant. Keep small children, dogs, and cats away from this plant. Foe!
Pro Tips
- Leave the lower browning leaves on the plant until you can pull them out by hand. This will help prevent any unwanted critters and diseases from invading the plant.
- When going on vacation, place your chinese evergreen house plants with your other indoor plants in a low-light area. They'll use less water, and the nearby plants will help keep the humidity higher.
- Rotate your Aglaonemas 45 degrees (quarter circle) every week so they'll maintain a well-rounded shape