Free Aglaonema Crispum 'Silver Queen' Plants

The Aglaonema is ideal for use as an ornamental feature on a table-top, until it outgrows the situation. As it grows larger, the plant can be displayed at ground level. The Aglaonema is susceptible to over¬watering and to cold draughts, both of which cause premature yellowing of leaves, followed by untimely loss. Over-watering can also cause leaves to rot at the base and these should be quickly removed with a sharp knife. Following leaf loss, keep the compost a little drier for a while to allow the plant to create fresh root and recover. The flower is insignificant and will wither and rot once it has finished. It is probably best removed with a sharp knife at its base as soon as it begins to fade. Although the plant can be propagated by division, care should be taken not to damage the fleshy foliage.

Plant type : Foliage plant with single or multi¬stemmed erect habit
Season of interest : All year round
Size : 30-45cm (12—18in)
Flower : Whitish, arum-like, 5cm (2in), relatively uninteresting
Leaf : 20-30cm (8—12in) long, 5-10cm (2-4in) broadly spear-shaped, greyish green; stems fleshy, succulent
Temperature : 20-24°C (68—75°F)
Aspect/Light : Moderate, out of direct sun
Humidity : Average
Watering : Evenly moisten compost in spring and summer, allowing to partially dry out between waterings; keep drier in autumn and winter
Feeding : Once every three to four weeks in spring and summer with houseplant fertilizer
Propagation : Divide plant into small clumps mid spring to early summer: sow seeds at 24°C (75°F); lay stem cuttings, 4-5cm (1|in-2in), on surface at same temperature
Potting : Houseplant potting compost
Problems : Mealy bug, root mealy bug, red spider mite
Availability : Commonly available throughout year
Uses indoors : Best as table-top plant in body of room such as lounge or dining room
Other varieties : A. commutatum - silver grey