How to propagate by division
Division is the most straightforward way to multiply Chinese evergreen: you split the root ball in spring, giving each section its own roots and shoots. The new plants establish quickly because they already have a mature root system.
- 01
Water the plant thoroughly the day before dividing: well-hydrated roots are more resilient.
- 02
Slide the plant gently out of its pot. If it’s stuck, run a knife around the inside edge.
- 03
Shake off the loose potting mix to expose the root system. For clumping plants, you’ll see distinct crowns or growing points.
- 04
Tease the clumps apart by hand where possible. For tightly bound roots, use a clean sharp knife or pruning shears. Each section needs at least one healthy shoot and a decent portion of roots.
- 05
Pot each division into fresh, well-draining potting mix at the same depth it was growing before.
- 06
Water gently, then place in indirect light for 1–2 weeks while the plants settle. Avoid direct sun and fertilizer for the first month.
- 07
New growth is the sign that the plant has adjusted. After 4–6 weeks, resume normal care.
Stem cuttings
Stem cuttings are the most reliable way to propagate Chinese evergreen. Each cutting contains a node (the small bump or joint where a leaf attaches), and that node is where new roots will grow.
- 01
Choose a healthy stem with at least one node and one or two leaves. In spring or early summer the plant is growing actively, so cuttings root fastest.
- 02
Cut just below a node using clean, sharp scissors or a knife. A cutting of 10–15 cm with one or two leaves is ideal.
- 03
Remove any leaves from the bottom 5 cm so they don’t rot in water or soil.
- 04
Water method: place the cut end in a glass of room-temperature water, keeping the leaves out of the water. Change the water every three days. Move to soil once roots are 2–3 cm long.
- 05
Soil method: dip the cut end in rooting powder (optional), then push it 3–4 cm into damp potting mix. Cover loosely with a clear bag to keep humidity high.
- 06
Keep the cutting in bright, indirect light and warmth (above 18 °C). Avoid direct sun, which wilts the cutting before roots form.
- 07
Roots typically appear within 2–5 weeks. Once new leaves start growing, the cutting is established: treat it like a mature plant.
All Chinese evergreen guides
Related plants
Same genus or the same care pattern.
Common questions
What is the easiest way to propagate Chinese evergreen?
Division is the easiest option when the plant already has several rooted clumps. Remove it from the pot in spring, separate a clump with at least one healthy shoot and its own roots, then repot it at the same depth.
Where should I cut Chinese evergreen for propagation?
For a stem cutting, cut just below a node, the joint where a leaf attaches. Keep at least one node and one or two leaves on the cutting, and remove any leaves that would sit in water or potting mix.
Can Chinese evergreen cuttings root in water?
Yes. Keep the node under room-temperature water and the leaves above it, change the water every few days, and move the cutting into potting mix once the roots are about 2 to 3 cm long.
Propagation guidance is based on genus-level horticultural knowledge. Individual specimens can vary.
7 steps · 4–6 weeks · Last reviewed: 2026-09-06