Care guide · easy care
How to care for Chinese Evergreen
Aglaonema commutatum
Written by Benjamin — a plant parent, not a search engine.
How often should I water Chinese Evergreen, and what light does it need?
Chinese evergreens are nearly unkillable and grow in surprisingly low light. Water when the top inch dries and their silver-speckled leaves thrive. Water it every 7–9 days while it is growing and every 10–14 days in winter, always checking the soil first. Give it low light. It is toxic to cats and/or dogs — more detail below.
Last updated August 14, 2026
At a glance
- Watering style
- evenly moist
- 7–9 days growing · 10–14 days winter
- Light
- Low light
- Humidity
- average
- Pet safety
- Toxic to pets
The short version
The one-sentence rule
Water when the top inch dries. It tolerates low light and dry air better than most colorful foliage plants — just don't overwater.
Light, made concrete
What low light actually means
Low light (1–2m from a window, no direct sun). Most plants survive here, few thrive. Snake plants and ZZ plants are champions of this spot.
Pet safety
Is Chinese Evergreen toxic to cats or dogs?
Yes — Calcium oxalates — mouth irritation and upset stomach if chewed. If your pet chews the plant, expect possible mouth irritation or an upset stomach, and call your vet if symptoms are more than mild. Keep it out of reach where you can.
Good to know
Who this plant is for
- ✓offices
- ✓low light
- ✓forgiving foliage
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