At a glance
- Light
- Low light tolerant
- Typical interval
- Every 6 to 8 days (summer)
Every 11 to 17 days (winter) - Climate
- 18–29 °C
- Humidity
- 50–70 %
- Pet safety
- Toxic to cats and dogs
- Scientific name
- Aglaonema commutatum
When and how much water
Water Chinese evergreen when the top 3 cm of soil feel dry to the touch. In summer that’s typically every 6 to 8 days. In winter, slow down to every 11 to 17 days. Use room-temperature water and let any excess drain. Never leave the pot sitting in standing water.
Adjust the timing for the light at the plant, the pot’s size and material, and the humidity indoors. Terracotta dries faster than glazed ceramic.
Light and placement
Chinese evergreen tolerates low light but grows faster in medium light. Place it near a north-facing window, or a couple of meters back from a brighter one.
Feeding
Feed Chinese evergreen every 45 days while it’s actively growing. Use a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer at half the strength on the label, and only on soil that’s already damp. Feeding dry roots can scorch them.
When growth pauses, skip the fertilizer and let it rest.
Temperature & humidity
Chinese evergreen is comfortable between 18 and 29 °C. Below 15 °C the leaves start taking damage, so keep it clear of cold drafts and unheated rooms.
It does best at 50–70% humidity. It doesn’t need misting.
Common problems
Yellowing, drooping, and dry edges often point to watering or drainage. Compare the signs before changing the routine.
Find what’s wrong
Toxic to pets?
Yes. Keep it out of reach.
Pet-safety information in the JungleBook uses ASPCA reference data where available. It is reference information, not veterinary advice.
Full Chinese evergreen toxicity guide →
Pet-safe alternatives with similar light
Common questions
How often should I water a Chinese evergreen?
Water your Chinese evergreen (Aglaonema commutatum) when the top 3 cm of soil feel dry to the touch. In summer, that’s typically every 6 to 8 days. In winter, slow down to every 11 to 17 days.
How much light does a Chinese evergreen need?
Chinese evergreen tolerates low light but grows faster in medium light. Place it near a north-facing window, or a couple of meters back from a brighter one.
Is Chinese evergreen safe for cats and dogs?
The plant contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. Chewing it can cause oral irritation, drooling, and vomiting. Keep Chinese evergreen out of reach of pets, or pick a non-toxic alternative like cast-iron plant or parlor palm.
Why are my Chinese evergreen’s leaves turning yellow or drooping?
On a Chinese evergreen, yellowing and soft growth usually mean overwatering: watch for yellowing leaves, mushy stems, or root rot. Let the soil dry further between waterings and check drainage. If you see drooping leaves, crispy leaf edges, or curling leaves instead, it’s likely thirsty. Water a little more often. With Botanicaly Pro, Botanicaly Bot can help assess visible signs from a photo and suggest possible causes.
Sources4 references
- Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew: Plants of the World OnlineAccepted species record · accepted infraspecifics
- Clemson University Home & Garden Information CenterQuick guide · how to grow indoors · Chinese evergreen problems and toxicity · Aglaonema species and cultivars
- University of Florida IFAS Extension: Gardening SolutionsPlanting and Care
- ASPCA Animal Poison ControlChinese Evergreen record naming Aglaonema modestum · used as genus/common-name safety context, not exact Aglaonema commutatum evidence
Last reviewed: 2026-09-21
