Aglaonema, Chinese Evergreen

Aglaonema modestum Schott., with comments on A. commutatum Schott.

ag-loe-NEEM-ah  moe-DES-tum

Araceae

Explanation of name: Generic name Greek for bright thread (WA1). A complex of species and hybrids, including the cultivars ‘Silverado’, ‘Silver Bay’, and ‘Silver Queen’

Natural range: Tropical Asia

Recognition: Perennials with short, thin (1/2”) stems having the usually lanceolate leaves clustered at the top and with sheathing bases. Similar to A. commutatum Schott., but this species with the leaf blade oblong (vs. ovate-acuminate) and spotted (vs. not spotted in A. modestum) (BA1)

Landscape uses: Tough, shade-tolerant plants useful as ground covers, clumps, and container plants, most often used indoors. Suitable for shaded northern exposures. According to WA1, highly sensitive to nematodes. All Aroids are toxic.