A Spectrum of Chinese Evergreen Colors and Varieties

The Chinese Evergreen, or Aglaonema, is a well-regarded houseplant known for its straightforward care and adaptability to various indoor environments. The primary appeal of the Aglaonema lies in the diversity of its foliage. Its leaves present a broad spectrum of colors and intricate patterns, making it a versatile choice for interior decoration. The plant’s slow-growing nature means it remains manageable in size for long periods, fitting well on desks and tabletops when young.

Classic Green Varieties

While newer, colorful cultivars often attract attention, the classic green varieties of Aglaonema establish the foundational look of the species. These types feature foliage that plays with different shades and patterns of green, creating a lush, textured appearance.

One of the most recognizable green cultivars is ‘Maria’, which displays shiny, dark green leaves marked with a dense, silvery-green chevron or stripe-like pattern. This creates a layered, feathered look. Another popular type, ‘Emerald Beauty’, presents deep green leaves with lighter, silvery-green feathering, offering a classic and sophisticated look. For a different texture, ‘Slim Jim’ features long, narrow dark green leaves with lighter green variegation and contrasting white stems.

Popular Red and Pink Varieties

The introduction of red and pink pigments into Aglaonema breeding has produced some of the most sought-after varieties. These cultivars often require brighter, indirect light to develop and maintain their most intense coloring. The range of expression is vast, from subtle pink speckles to bold, solid red leaves, allowing them to serve as vibrant focal points in a room.

Among the most famous is ‘Siam Aurora’, which is distinguished by its glossy green leaves edged and veined in a brilliant red or pink. ‘Red Valentine’ offers a different pattern, with leaves that are heavily mottled with pink and green, creating a speckled appearance. Similarly, ‘Pink Dalmatian’ features dark green leaves randomly spotted with splashes of light pink. ‘Red King’ showcases leaves with a dominant, red coloration across the entire surface.

Striking White and Silver Varieties

The white and silver forms of Chinese Evergreen offer a high-contrast, elegant aesthetic. The patterns range from fine, scattered speckles to large, solid patches of white or silver, often outlined by a dark green leaf margin. This striking variegation makes them stand out against other houseplants.

‘Silver Bay’ is a widely grown cultivar known for its large, silvery-green centers surrounded by a darker green edge. A variety with even more pronounced variegation is ‘Silver Queen’, which has pale, silvery-green leaves that are heavily speckled and edged with dark green. For a nearly white appearance, ‘Snow White’ presents leaves that are predominantly creamy-white with green speckles and margins, offering a dramatic and bright look.

Maintaining Vibrant Foliage

The vibrancy of an Aglaonema’s colorful leaves is directly linked to its environmental conditions, particularly light exposure. Varieties with red, pink, or white variegation generally require more light than their all-green counterparts. Placing them in a location with bright, indirect sunlight will intensify these colors, while insufficient light can cause the bright patterns to fade and revert to green. They can thrive under fluorescent office lighting, making them adaptable to various indoor settings.

Proper watering and humidity also play a role in the foliage’s appearance. Consistent watering, allowing the soil to be evenly moist but not waterlogged, supports overall plant health and prevents issues like browning leaf tips that detract from the color. Adequate humidity mimics their native tropical environment, contributing to the leaves’ healthy sheen and preventing them from becoming dull or dry.