What is this plant?

[roseann]

A former tenant left it, and I'd love to know what it is. Here's a link to my Flickr file: http://flickr.com/photos/nycfreecycler

Thanks!

[Newt]

Hi Roseann,

Wow, what a nice plant.* It's an Aglonema aka Chinese evergreen.* The one you have is probably Aglonema 'Silver Green' or A. 'Silver King'.* There are many named varieties with leaves of green to many different types of variegation.* In your first two pictures you show the flower called a spath.* Once it withers you can cut it off.
http://www.denverplants.com/foliage/...ilverQueen.htm
http://www.denverplants.com/foliage/html/aghybrid.htm
http://www.plantcare.com/encyclopedi...reen-1729.aspx
http://www.plantcare.com/encyclopedi...rgreen-48.aspx


I've had an old variety for over 35 years.* When the canes get too long and I don't like the way they look, I cut them off and root them and start a new plant.* Often the cane that I leave in the pot will sprout one or two new plants.

Newt

[roseann]

Thank you so much, Newt!!!!! I am notorious (historically) for not being able to keep a plant alive, despite my mother's green thumb (even her jades didn't survive with me, which says a lot. Then again, it could have been because, up until now, I was living in very dark apartments with no sunlight whatsoever. Thankfully my new place gets tons of light!)

This plant was lush when I got here, and I'm happy to say it's still thriving. Very exciting to see the tide turning for me and my thumb!

Best,
Roseann

[Newt]

Roseann, you are so very welcome!* I have found that my plant thrives on neglect.* I keep it in a bright spot and water when the soil dries.* I don't let it sit in a saucer of water for more then 15 minutes.* Besides the lack of light you had before, the other reason people have so much trouble keeping houseplants alive is because they tend to keep the soil too wet.

Good luck with this one.
Newt