Aglaonema Commutatum Schott: Description and Common Names
Aglaonema commutatum Schott is a member of the Araceae plant family and is also known as Chinese evergreen, painted drop tongue, silver queen, and Philippine evergreen. It is a tropical perennial plant that is native to Southeast Asia, specifically the Malay Peninsula and the Philippines.
General Appearance
Aglaonema commutatum Schott is an upright plant that can grow up to 3 feet tall. It has thick stems with slightly elongated and lanceolate-shaped leaves that range from 6 to 10 inches long and 2 to 3 inches wide. The leaves are glossy and have a dark green color with varying white or silver markings that add a decorative touch. The plant also grows a spadix that consists of a white or yellow spike that contains tiny male and female flowers.
Uses
Aglaonema commutatum Schott is a popular houseplant that is easy to maintain and can thrive in low light conditions. It is commonly grown for its attractive foliage and air-purifying abilities. The plant contains a natural filter that can help remove toxins from the air, which makes it ideal for indoor environments. In traditional medicine, Aglaonema commutatum Schott is also used in herbal remedies as it contains compounds that are believed to possess healing properties. Furthermore, it is used in some cultures as an ornamental plant and may play a role in religious ceremonies.
Overall, Aglaonema commutatum Schott is a versatile plant that offers both aesthetic and practical benefits.Light Requirements
Aglaonema commutatum Schott requires bright, indirect light for optimal growth. Direct sunlight may cause the leaves to scorch. The ideal location for this plant is near a north or east-facing window, where it can receive bright, filtered light for several hours each day. In low light conditions, the plant may grow slowly and produce fewer leaves.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Aglaonema commutatum Schott is between 65°F and 80°F (18°C - 27°C). The plant can tolerate temperatures as low as 55°F (13°C) and as high as 90°F (32°C) for short periods, but prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures can damage the foliage and slow down growth. The plant does best in a humid environment, with a relative humidity of at least 40%.
Soil and Water Requirements
Aglaonema commutatum Schott prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of equal parts peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite works well. The plant likes to be kept evenly moist, but not too wet. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, and be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. During the growing season, fertilize the plant monthly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
Cultivation methods
The Aglaonema commutatum Schott is a plant that prefers bright but indirect light and can tolerate low light conditions. It thrives in temperatures between 60 and 85 F, with a humidity level of about 50%. The soil should be well-draining and fertile to promote healthy growth. Planting in a pot with drainage holes is necessary to avoid waterlogging the plant's roots.
Watering needs
Aglaonema commutatum Schott's watering needs change according to its growth stage. During the growing season, water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry. Reduce watering during the dormant period in winter but never let the soil become entirely dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot, causing permanent damage to the plant.
Fertilization
Aglaonema commutatum Schott's fertilizer requirements differ depending on the season. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer every month from spring to summer when the plant is growing actively. Reduce fertilizing during fall and winter when the plant is dormant. Over-fertilization can lead to leaf burn, so refrain from feeding the plant excessively.
Pruning
To maintain its beautiful appearance, pruning is crucial. Cut off yellowed or wilted leaves to enhance the plant's aesthetic appeal. If Aglaonema commutatum Schott exhibits too much height, cut back the stem below a leaf node to encourage branching, and the plant will grow fuller. You can also periodically groom the plant by removing dead and damaged foliage.
Propagation of Aglaonema commutatum Schott
Aglaonema commutatum Schott, also known as Chinese evergreen, is an evergreen perennial herb that is native to Southeast Asia. It is a popular houseplant that is grown for its attractive foliage and ease of care. Propagation of Aglaonema commutatum Schott can be done through three common methods: division, stem cuttings, and tissue culture.
Division
Division is a common method of propagating Aglaonema commutatum Schott. It involves separating a portion of the plant from the mother plant and potting it separately. This method is typically done during repotting or when the plant has outgrown its container. When dividing the plant, be careful not to damage the roots. Use a sharp, clean knife or garden shears to divide the plant into sections, ensuring that each section has a good portion of healthy roots and foliage. Each section can then be potted separately in a well-draining potting mix.
Stem Cuttings
Propagation through stem cuttings is another effective method for Aglaonema commutatum Schott. Cut a section of stem (5-6 inches long) from the mother plant just below the leaf node. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix and water it lightly. Cover the pot with a plastic bag to create a mini-greenhouse and place it in a warm, bright location. Roots should start to develop within a few weeks. Once the cutting has rooted, remove the plastic bag and treat it like a mature plant.
Tissue Culture
Tissue culture is an advanced method of propagating Aglaonema commutatum Schott. It involves growing the plant from in vitro plant tissue in a nutrient-rich solution under sterile conditions. This method is commonly used by commercial nurseries to produce large quantities of plants in a short amount of time. However, tissue culture requires specialized equipment, skills, and knowledge and is not practical for home gardeners.
Disease and Pest Management for Aglaonema commutatum Schott
Aglaonema commutatum Schott, commonly known as Chinese Evergreen, is a popular houseplant that is valued for its ornamental leaves and ability to purify the air. Like any other plant, Chinese Evergreen is also susceptible to different diseases and pests that can affect its growth and appearance. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that can affect Chinese Evergreen and ways to manage them.
Diseases
Bacterial Leaf Spot and Blight: This is a bacterial disease that causes water-soaked spots on the leaves, which eventually turn brown and dry. It is caused by poor sanitation, overwatering, and overcrowding. To manage this disease, remove the infected leaves and avoid overhead watering. Ensure the plant is not overcrowded and provide good air circulation.
Root Rot: This is a fungal disease that occurs due to overwatering or poorly-draining soil. The plant's roots turn brown and mushy, and the leaves start to wilt. To prevent this disease, ensure the soil is well-draining and do not overwater the plant. If the roots are already infected, remove the infected parts and repot the plant in fresh, well-draining soil.
Leaf Blight: This is a fungal disease that causes yellow spots on the leaves, which eventually turn brown and fall off. It is caused by poor air circulation and high humidity levels. To manage this disease, ensure the plant is not overcrowded and provide good air circulation. Use a fungicide to control the spread of the disease.
Pests
Spider Mites: These are tiny pests that suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and wilt. They spin webs on the plant, and the leaves become covered in fine webbing. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Increase the humidity around the plant to discourage the growth of spider mites.
Mealybugs: These pests are small, white, and fluffy. They suck sap from the leaves and the stems, causing stunted growth and yellowing. To manage mealybugs, remove them manually with a cotton bud dipped in alcohol. Alternatively, spray the plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Fungus Gnats: These are small, dark-colored flies that lay their eggs in the soil. The larvae feed on the roots of the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing leaves. To manage fungus gnats, allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Use yellow sticky traps to catch the adult flies.
By taking proper care of the plant and managing the diseases and pests, you can ensure that your Chinese Evergreen remains healthy and beautiful.
