Aglaonema Auspicious Red, also known as Chinese Evergreen Auspicious Red, is a beautiful shrub plant that belongs to a member of the Araceae family. It shares many positive attributes with its more popular cousin the Peace Lily, including longevity and easy care.

The Aglaonema Auspicious Red is characterised by its deep green elongated, spade-shaped leaves with bold, vibrant red markings. The red variegation typically appears as splashes or veins running along the leaves, creating a visually striking contrast.

Positioning: It has a tolerance to various light conditions, including low-light environments. It thrives in areas with indirect or filtered light, making it a suitable choice for offices or rooms with limited natural light. Although it has some tolerance to brighter conditions, direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.

Soil: Aglaonemas like a well-draining peat-based potting soil, along with a dose of liquid plant fertilizer every four months or so. Ideally, the soil should have a moist consistency, but if the soil does occasionally become too dry the plant will spring back once it has a decent drink.

Watering: In terms of care, Aglaonema Auspicious Red is a drought hardy shrub that can store water in its stalks during dryer periods, but it prefers to be watered regularly and will thrive if done so. Be sure to not let the water build up in the base of the pot as this can lead to root rot.

Humidity: As this plant is native to the tropical regions of Asia and New Guinea, moderate humidity levels are best suited to the Aglaonema genus. The best temperature for optimal growth is between 15-30°C. To create a more humid environment, cluster your plants together.

Propagation: A healthy Aglaonema Auspicious Red will produce abundant clustered foliage that can easily be cut away for propagation. Off-cuttings can be grown in a narrow-necked vessel of water, and once the roots take shape and mature, the new plant can then be moved into a garden pot with suitable soil.

Problems and Solutions: Aglaonema Auspicious Red is a popular indoor plant not only due to its attractive foliage, but it is also notoriously easy to care for, which is great for new plant parents.

Avoid placing your Aglaonema Auspicious Red in cold drafty areas such as doorways and directly in front of windows as it can develop a condition called Chilling Injury in which the leaves will turn waxy in texture and start to brown or purple in patches. You should be able to save the plant by moving it into a warmer location. However, in extreme cases, you may need to remove the infected leaves.

As hardy as this plant is, it is only able to withstand dry conditions for short periods of time. If the leaves start wilting and dropping off, this could be a sign that your Aglaonema Auspicious Red is not getting enough water. Increase your watering schedule or make sure the soil is completely soaked through the next time you water your plant.

Unfortunately, most indoor plants are harmful when ingested, and the Aglaonema is no exception. Although the symptoms are mild, it is advisable to keep your plant away from curious pets and children.

You might also like to learn more about the Dragon Tree or Fiddle Leaf Fig.