Aglaonema modestum ( Silver Queen Chinese Evergreen )

An erect perennial reaching up to 24 inches tall. Leaves are 8 inches long, shiny dark green, elliptical with wavy silver margins, and waxy to the touch. Flowers resemble small greenish-white callas followed by yellow to red berries. Grown primarily for the foliage. This easy-care house plant prefers loose, rich potting soil and plenty of water, though it can survive just fine with very little. This plant is a wonderful choice if low light seems to be your problem. Mixes well with other houseplants, too. Occasionally, this “houseplant” is used outside in warm, tropical areas as a foundation planting on shady, north sides. Even if you live in cooler areas, consider grouping this and other favorite houseplants outside for the summer, giving a refreshing tropical look to the patio or terrace.


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Characteristics

Cultivar: Silver Queen  
Family: Araceae  
Size: Height: 0 ft. to 2 ft.
Width: 0 ft. to 2 ft.  
Plant Category: houseplants, perennials,  
Plant Characteristics: low maintenance,  
Foliage Characteristics: evergreen,  
Flower Characteristics:  
Flower Color: whites,  
Tolerances:  


Requirements


Bloomtime Range: not applicable  
USDA Hardiness Zone: undefined  
AHS Heat Zone: Not defined for this plant  
Light Range: Part Shade to Part Sun  
pH Range: 5.5 to 6.5  
Soil Range: Potting Soil to Potting Soil  
Water Range: Normal to Moist  





Plant Care

Fertilizing

How-to : Fertilization for Annuals and Perennials

Annuals and perennials may be fertilized using: 1.water-soluble, quick release fertilizers; 2. temperature controlled slow-release fertilizers; or 3. organic fertilizers such as fish emulsion. Water soluble fertilizers are generally used every two weeks during the growing season or per label instructions. Controlled, slow-release fertilizers are worked into the soil ususally only once during the growing season or per label directions. For organic fertilizers such as fish emulsion, follow label directions as they may vary per product.

How-to : Fertilizing Houseplants

Houseplants may be fertilized with: 1. water-soluble, quick release fertilizers; 2. temperature controlled slow-release fertilizers; 3. or organic fertilizers such as fish emulsion. Water soluble fertilizers are used every two weeks or per label instructions. Controlled, slow-release fertilizers are carefully worked into the soil usually only once during the growing season or per label directions. For organic fertilizers, such as fish emulsion, follow label directions. Allow houseplants to 'rest' during the winter months; stop fertilizing in late October and resume feeding in late February.

Light

Conditions : Moderate Light for Houseplants

Place houseplants that require moderate light within 5 feet of an eastern or western exposure window.

Conditions : Low Light for Houseplants

Place low light houseplants within 5 to 8 feet of a sunlit window or within 2 feet of a northern exposure window.

Watering

Conditions : Normal Watering for Houseplants

Houseplants that require normal watering should be watered so that soil is completely saturated and excess water runs out the bottom of the pot. Never water just a little bit; this allows mineral salts to build up in the soil. The key to normal watering is to allow the top inch or two of potting soil to dry out between waterings. Check frequently as certain times of the year may dictate that you water more frequently. Also, some plants that require normal watering during the growing season, may require less during the winter months when they are dormant.

Planting

How-to : Potting Indoor Plants

Make sure that the plant you have chosen is suitable for the conditions you are able to provide it: that it will have enough light, space, and a temperature it will like. Remember that the area right next to a window will be colder than the rest of the room.

Indoor plants need to be transplanted into a larger container periodically, or they become pot/root-bound and their growth is retarded. Water the plant well before starting, so the soil will hold the root ball together when you remove it from the pot. If you have trouble getting the plant out of the pot, try running a blade around the edge of the pot, and gently whacking the sides to loosen the soil.

Always use fresh soil when transplanting your indoor plant. Fill around the plant gently with soil, being careful not to pack too tightly -- you want air to be able to get to the roots. After the plant is in the new pot, don't fertilize right away... this will encourage the roots to fill in their new home.

The size pot you choose is important too. Select one that is not more than about 1 inch greater in diameter. Remember, many plants prefer being somewhat pot bound. Always start with a clean pot!

Problems

Miscellaneous

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