Chinese Evergreen 'Maria'

Description: Chinese Evergreen 'Maria', scientifically known as Aglaonema 'Maria', is a popular houseplant cherished for its elegant foliage and adaptability to indoor environments. Belonging to the Araceae family, this cultivar features lush, lance-shaped leaves with rich green tones and silver markings, creating a striking contrast. Chinese Evergreen 'Maria' is prized for its durability and ease of care, making it an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced plant enthusiasts looking to add beauty to their indoor spaces.

🌿 Botanical Name: Aglaonema 'Maria'

🐾 Pet Warning: Chinese Evergreen 'Maria' is toxic to pets if ingested. Keep it out of reach of cats, dogs, and other animals.

💧 Care Level: Low to moderate. Chinese Evergreen 'Maria' is relatively easy to care for and thrives in typical indoor conditions.

📏 Approximate Size: Chinese Evergreen 'Maria' typically grows to a height of 1 to 2 feet (30 to 60 cm) and can spread slightly wider with maturity.

☀️ Light: Chinese Evergreen 'Maria' prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves. Place it near a north- or east-facing window where it can receive filtered sunlight or artificial light.

💧 Water: Keep the soil evenly moist during the growing season (spring and summer), allowing the top inch of soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering frequency in the fall and winter, allowing the soil to dry out more between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.

💦 Humidity: Chinese Evergreen 'Maria' thrives in moderate to high humidity levels. Increase humidity by misting the leaves regularly, using a humidifier, or placing the plant on a tray filled with pebbles and water. Grouping plants together can also help create a microclimate with higher humidity.

🌡️ Temperature: Chinese Evergreen 'Maria' prefers temperatures between 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C) and is sensitive to cold drafts and temperature extremes. Protect it from cold air conditioning vents and sudden temperature fluctuations.

❄️ Hardiness: Chinese Evergreen 'Maria' is hardy in USDA zones 10 to 12 and is best grown indoors in cooler climates.

🌱 Soil: Plant Chinese Evergreen 'Maria' in well-draining, peat-based potting mix with added perlite or sand to improve drainage. A slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5-7) is ideal.

🌱 Fertilizing: Feed Chinese Evergreen 'Maria' with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half the recommended strength every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce fertilization frequency in the fall and winter.

🔄 Pruning: Remove yellow or damaged leaves promptly to maintain the plant's appearance and overall health. Chinese Evergreen 'Maria' is relatively low-maintenance and rarely requires extensive pruning.

🌱 Propagation: Chinese Evergreen 'Maria' can be propagated by stem cuttings. Take 4-6 inch (10-15 cm) stem cuttings with at least one node and plant them in moist potting mix. Keep the cuttings warm and humid until new roots develop.