Cultural Significance, Uses & Benefits

Benefits of Having a Chinese Evergreen

Explore the practical and aesthetic qualities of the Chinese Evergreen, a forgiving plant that enhances indoor environments with its resilient nature.

The Chinese Evergreen, known botanically as Aglaonema, is a favored houseplant native to the tropical climates of Asia and New Guinea. Its resilience has made it a staple in indoor gardening. Cultivated for centuries, the plant has been developed into a wide array of varieties that appeal to different tastes and home environments.

Air Purifying Qualities

A primary benefit of the Chinese Evergreen is its capacity to improve indoor air quality. These plants are effective at filtering common airborne toxins from their environment. Research, including NASA’s Clean Air Study, has identified Aglaonema as proficient at removing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the air.

The plant is skilled at absorbing pollutants such as formaldehyde and benzene, which are found in many household items. It captures these gaseous pollutants through small pores on its leaves, known as stomata. The toxins are then transported to the root zone, where soil microorganisms help break them down into harmless components.

This natural filtration process contributes to a healthier indoor atmosphere. The continuous cycle of absorbing toxins and releasing oxygen creates a fresher environment, which can support overall well-being.

Low Maintenance and Adaptability

A primary advantage of the Chinese Evergreen is its ease of care, making it a good choice for novice plant owners or those with busy schedules. This plant is known for its forgiving nature and ability to flourish in a variety of indoor settings without requiring constant attention.

The plant’s high tolerance for low-light conditions is a feature of its hardiness. While many houseplants require bright, indirect sunlight, the Aglaonema can maintain its health in shadier corners of a home or in offices with fluorescent lighting, allowing for versatile placement.

The Chinese Evergreen is also forgiving when it comes to watering, as it can tolerate occasional periods of dryness. The plant prefers its soil to dry out partially between waterings, which helps prevent root rot. It also thrives in average household humidity, eliminating the need for specialized humidifiers.

Aesthetic and Decorative Value

The Chinese Evergreen offers great aesthetic value, serving as a versatile element in interior design. Its visual appeal is due to the diversity among its many cultivars, with foliage that presents a wide spectrum of colors and patterns to complement any decorative scheme.

Leaves showcase colors from deep greens and silvers to shades of pink and red. For instance, the ‘Silver Bay’ cultivar features broad, silver-green leaves that can brighten a dim space. In contrast, varieties like ‘Red Siam’ display red and pink tones along the leaf edges and veins, adding a bold splash of color.

This range of appearances makes the Aglaonema very versatile. A variety with dark green leaves can provide a classic look, while a brightly colored or patterned cultivar can act as a living piece of art. This allows it to create a serene atmosphere or serve as a vibrant focal point.

Symbolism in Feng Shui

The Chinese Evergreen holds cultural significance in the practice of Feng Shui. In this ancient art of placement, the plant is considered a symbol of good fortune and prosperity. It is believed to attract positive energy, or chi, into the home or workspace.

In Feng Shui, the plant’s longevity and ability to thrive are associated with stability and perseverance, while its lush foliage represents growth and abundance. For these reasons, it is recommended as a gift for new business openings or as an addition to a home to invite good luck.

To maximize its purported benefits, placement is a consideration. Placing a Chinese Evergreen in a well-lit corner of a living room or entryway is thought to enhance the flow of positive energy. In an office, it might be situated on a desk to encourage success and productivity.

Important Considerations

While the Chinese Evergreen offers numerous benefits, potential owners must be aware of its toxicity. The plant is poisonous to pets, such as cats and dogs, and humans if ingested. This is a safety consideration for any household where it is kept.

The plant’s toxicity is due to the presence of insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. When chewed or ingested, these needle-like crystals embed themselves in the soft tissues of the mouth, throat, and digestive tract. This can cause immediate and painful irritation.

Common symptoms of ingestion can be severe and include:

  • Oral pain and burning sensations
  • Swelling of the lips, tongue, and throat
  • Excessive drooling
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Vomiting

Although rarely fatal, the reaction can be severe, making it necessary to place the plant out of reach of pets and small children.

Previous

What Is the Mayur and Why Is It Important in India?

Back to Cultural Significance, Uses & Benefits
Next

Benefits of Having Succulent Plants