Chinese evergreen 'Silver Queen’ Aglaonema 'Silver Queen'
ABOUT
Aglaonema 'Silver Queen' is a popular houseplant that is prized for its beautiful foliage. It has large, elliptical leaves that are about 8-10 inches long and 4-6 inches wide. The leaves are variegated with shades of silver and green, and the edges are outlined with a thin band of dark green. The variegation patterns vary among individual plants, with some having more silver and others having more green.
The leaves emerge from a central stem and grow in a rosette pattern, with new leaves appearing at the center and older leaves dropping off from the bottom. The stems are thick and fleshy, with a slight reddish tint. The plant itself typically grows to about 2-3 feet tall and wide, although it can be trained to grow taller if desired.
Overall, Aglaonema 'Silver Queen' has a lush and tropical appearance, making it a popular choice for indoor gardening.
About this plant
- Names
Family
Araceae
Synonyms
Chinese evergreen 'Silver Queen’
Common names
Aglaonema treubyi 'Silver Queen', Aglaonema commutatum 'Silver Queen', Aglaonema nitidum 'Silver Queen'
- Toxicity
To humans
Aglaonema 'Silver Queen' plant is toxic to humans if ingested.
Its sap contains oxalate crystals that can cause burning and swelling of the mouth and throat, difficulty in swallowing, and vomiting. Skin irritation may also occur upon contact with the sap.
Therefore, it is recommended to keep the plant out of reach of children and pets and to handle it with care.To pets
Aglaonema 'Silver Queen' plant is toxic to animals if ingested.
Ingesting any part of the Aglaonema 'Silver Queen' plant can also be harmful to pets such as cats and dogs, causing similar symptoms as in humans, including difficulty in swallowing, drooling, and vomiting.
It is essential to keep the plant away from pets or supervise them while they are around the plant.
- Characteristics
Life cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Shades of silver and green
Flower color
Creme
Height
Up to 3 feet
Spread
Up to 3 feet
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Asia
Benefits
- General Benefits
Low maintenance: It is an easy-to-care-for plant, making it ideal for those who want to add greenery to their space without putting in a lot of effort.
Its variegated leaves with silver and green hues make it a beautiful addition to any room, adding visual interest and texture.
Research suggests that surrounding oneself with greenery can help to improve mood and reduce stress levels.
Interesting Facts
- Plant Symbolism
Aglaonema 'Silver Queen' is not commonly associated with any specific symbolism or meanings.
However, in general, plants with white or silver variegation are often seen as symbols of purity, grace, and elegance.
- Water
Aglaonema 'Silver Queen' prefers evenly moist soil, so it is best to water it when the top 1-2 inches of soil feels dry to the touch, usually once a week.
Water thoroughly and let the excess water drain from the pot. Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water, which can lead to root rot. - Light
This plant grows best in brigt indirect conditions.
- Temperature
Aglaonema 'Silver Queen' thrives in bright, indirect light conditions with temperatures ranging from 65 to 80°F. In winter, the plant prefers slightly cooler temperatures ranging from 60 to 75°F, while avoiding any direct exposure to cold drafts or hot, direct sunlight.
- Soil
The best soil for Aglaonema 'Silver Queen' is well-draining potting soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.0. A recommended soil mix for this plant is a blend of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite in equal parts.
- Repotting
Aglaonema 'Silver Queen' should be repotted every 1-2 years when it outgrows its pot, typically in the spring.
- Humidity & Misting
The best humidity level for Aglaonema 'Silver Queen' is between 50-60%. Using a humidifier, pebble tray, or grouping plants together can help maintain the humidity levels.
- Suitable locations
Indoor
All year round
Outdoor
Growing only in suitable climatic conditions and only if all necessary conditions.
Hardiness zone
10 - 12 USDA
- Life cycle
Aglaonema 'Silver Queen' is a perennial plant that can live for many years if properly cared for.
It goes through a cycle of growth stages, starting with germination from seeds or propagation from stem cuttings.
Once established, it grows leaves from a central stem or rosette, with new leaves emerging from the top and older leaves dropping from the bottom. During its growing season, the plant produces small flowers, which eventually turn into berries containing the plant's seeds. - Propogation
Propogation time
Spring, summer
Stem cuttings:
Stem cuttings should be taken from the top of the plant, and each cutting should have at least two leaves. The cuttings can then be rooted in a soilless medium, such as perlite or vermiculite, and kept warm and moist until they root.
Division:
Division involves carefully separating the plant into two or more sections, each with its own root system, and replanting each section in a new pot. Division is best done in the spring, when the plant is actively growing.
- Pests
Spider mite, Scale insects, Mealybug
- Diseases
Anthracnose, Root Rot, Leaf spot