What is Aglaonema Costatum used for?

✓ Environmental Air Purification — Aglaonema costatum, as part of the Aglaonema genus, has been noted for its ability to absorb gaseous pollutants like formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene from indoor environments, contributing to improved air quality. ✓ Stress Reduction and Mood Enhancement — The presence of…

How is Aglaonema Costatum used?

✓ Ornamental Display — Primarily used as an indoor ornamental plant to enhance interior aesthetics in homes, offices, and public spaces due to its attractive foliage. ✓ Air Purification Placement — Positioned strategically in indoor environments to leverage its capacity for absorbing common volatile organic compounds…

Is Aglaonema Costatum safe?

✓ Highly Toxic — Aglaonema costatum is considered highly toxic if ingested by humans or pets due to the presence of insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. ✓ Keep Out of Reach — Absolutely essential to keep this plant out of reach of children, infants, and all household pets to prevent accidental ingestion. ✓ Handle with…

Does Aglaonema Costatum have side effects?

✓ Oral Irritation — Ingestion of any part of Aglaonema costatum can cause immediate and intense burning pain, irritation, and swelling of the mouth, tongue, lips, and throat due to calcium oxalate crystals. ✓ Swelling and Dysphagia — Severe swelling of the oral cavity and pharynx may lead to difficulty swallowing…

How do you grow Aglaonema Costatum?

✓ Light — Thrives in low to moderate indirect light; direct sunlight can scorch its leaves. Diffused light is ideal. ✓ Water — Keep potting mix consistently moist from spring to fall, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering frequency in winter. ✓ Humidity — Prefers high humidity…

Aglaonema Costatum Houseplant: Indoor Care, Light & Styling

Care Disclaimer: Plant care recommendations are general guidelines based on common growing conditions. Individual results may vary based on your local environment, climate, and care routine. If your plant is toxic, keep it away from children and pets, and consult a veterinarian if accidental ingestion occurs.

1.Aglaonema Costatum — Overview

Aglaonema costatum, commonly known as the Spotted Evergreen or Chinese Evergreen, is an attractive herbaceous perennial belonging to the Araceae family, also known as the arum family. This species is indigenous to the tropical and subtropical regions of Southeast Asia, with its natural habitat spanning northeastern India, Bangladesh, Thailand, and Malaysia. It thrives in the understory of dense forests, preferring shaded, humid environments. Morphologically, Aglaonema costatum is characterized by its striking foliage; its lance-shaped to elliptic leaves, typically ranging from 4 to 8 inches in length, present a dark green base color intricately speckled or variegated with lighter green, silver, or cream patterns.

The leaves are glossy and emerge from an erect, bushy stem that can become somewhat cane-like with age. While primarily grown for its ornamental leaves, the plant can produce an inflorescence typical of the Araceae family, consisting of a white spadix surrounded by a greenish-white spathe, though flowering is less common in low-light indoor conditions. Following successful pollination, small clusters of red berries may form. The root system is fibrous, supporting its growth as an understory plant.

Taxonomically, it is one of approximately 26 species within the Aglaonema genus, which is widely cultivated for its aesthetic appeal. Historically and culturally, Aglaonema costatum, like other Aglaonema species, has gained prominence as a popular indoor ornamental plant due to its remarkable tolerance for low light conditions and its relatively straightforward care requirements, making it a favored choice for homes and offices worldwide. Its primary interaction with humans has been aesthetic, contributing to biophilic design and indoor air quality, rather than through traditional medicinal applications.

Trusted Scientific References

Authoritative external sources for Aglaonema costatum:

1.1.Aglaonema Costatum — Key Features

Striking Variegated Foliage — Characterized by lance-shaped leaves with intricate patterns of green, silver, cream, and sometimes pink or red.
Low Light Tolerance — Exceptionally well-suited for indoor environments with limited natural light, making it a popular houseplant.
Air Purifying Properties — Known for its ability to filter common indoor air pollutants such as formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene.
Tropical Herbaceous Perennial — Grows as a non-woody plant that lives for more than two years, thriving in warm, humid climates.
Araceae Family Member — Belongs to the Arum family, sharing characteristics like the spathe and spadix inflorescence.
Fibrous Root System — Possesses a network of fine roots that help anchor the plant and absorb nutrients from the understory.
Produces Spadix and Spathe — Can develop a characteristic inflorescence, though it is less common indoors and not its primary ornamental feature.
Toxic Red Berries — Following pollination, small clusters of bright red berries may form, which are also toxic if ingested.
Bushy, Erect Growth Habit — Grows upright and forms a dense, bushy clump, becoming somewhat cane-like with age.
Relatively Easy Care — Considered an easy-to-grow houseplant, forgiving of minor neglect and adaptable to various indoor conditions.

1.2.Aglaonema Costatum — Quick Summary

Aglaonema costatum is a popular, low-maintenance indoor ornamental plant known for its striking variegated foliage.
It is highly effective at purifying indoor air by removing common volatile organic compounds.
Native to tropical Southeast Asia, it thrives in shaded, humid environments.
All parts of the plant are toxic if ingested, primarily due to calcium oxalate crystals, posing a risk to children and pets.
Its primary value is aesthetic and environmental, with no traditional medicinal uses.
Tolerant of low light conditions, making it an ideal houseplant for various indoor settings.

2.Aglaonema Costatum — Scientific Identity

Kingdom	Plantae
Vascular Group	Tracheophytes
Flowering Group	Angiosperms
Major Lineage	Eudicots
Botanical Lineage	Rosids
Family	Araceae
Accepted Name	Aglaonema costatumW
Common Names	Aglaonema Costatum, চাইনিজ এভারগ্রীন

Ecology & Growth
Native Range	China, Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, Vietnam, Bangladesh, India
Biome / Habitat Type	Southeast Asia, Malaysia, Thailand
Mature Height	Typically 0.3-0.6 meters (1-2 feet) tall indoors; can spread to similar width.
Evidence & Sources
Last Updated	Jun 28, 2026

4.Aglaonema Costatum — Appearance & Identification

Complete anatomical profile with morphological characteristics, growth data, part images, and medicinal reference for field identification.

Leaf

Oblong-lanceolate to ovate leaves, typically 15-25 cm long and 5-10 cm wide, dark green with prominent silvery-white or light green veins and spots along the midrib and primary lateral veins. Leaf texture is somewhat leathery with entire margins.

Flower

Spadix inflorescence, typical of Araceae, consisting of a fleshy spadix (cream to pale yellow) subtended by a boat-shaped spathe (pale greenish-white). Flowers are small and inconspicuous. Blooms sporadically indoors.

Bark & Stem

Not applicable; herbaceous plant, lacking true bark. Stems are green and somewhat succulent.

Fruit

Small, fleshy berry, ovoid to spherical, typically red or orange when ripe, containing one small seed. Infrequently produced indoors.

Seed

Small, round to ovoid, light brown seeds, typically 3-5 mm in diameter. Dispersal is often by birds in native habitats.

Root System

Fibrous root system, shallow to moderately deep, forming a dense network to anchor the plant and absorb moisture.

5.Aglaonema Costatum — Water Requirements

Light — Thrives in low to moderate indirect light; direct sunlight can scorch its leaves. Diffused light is ideal.
Water — Keep potting mix consistently moist from spring to fall, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering frequency in winter.
Humidity — Prefers high humidity (60-70%); regular misting, a pebble tray, or a humidifier can be beneficial, though it tolerates dryer air.
Temperature — Intolerant of cold; ideal daytime temperatures range from 70-80°F (21-27°C). Protect from drafts.
Soil — Requires well-draining, rich potting mix, typically an aroid-specific blend or a mix of peat, perlite, and pine bark.
Fertilization — Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 2-4 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer); withhold fertilizer in fall and winter.
Pruning — Remove yellowed or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and health. Prune leggy stems to encourage bushier growth.
Repotting — Repot every 2-3 years or when root-bound, typically in spring, into a pot one size larger.

6.Aglaonema Costatum — Pests, Diseases & Disorders

Common pests, diseases, and physiological disorders affecting Aglaonema Costatum. Click any row for full details.

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Disease / Pest	Severity	Symptoms	Cause
Leaf Spot	Medium	Leaf spot diseases on Aglaonema costatum can manifest in various ways, typically appearing as small, distinct spots on the leaves. These spots can be circular or irregular in shape and vary in color from brown, black, tan, to reddish-brown. They may be surrounded by a yellow halo. In more severe cases, these spots can enlarge and merge, causing large necrotic areas on the leaf. The affected foliage may eventually yellow, wilt, and drop prematurely. The pattern and color of the spots can help identify the specific fungal or bacterial pathogen responsible, though often they present as a general browning and spotting of the leaves, diminishing the plant’s aesthetic appeal.	Leaf spots on Aglaonema costatum are most commonly caused by fungal pathogens such as Cercospora, Phyllosticta, or bacterial pathogens. These pathogens spread through water splashing onto the leaves, contaminated soil, or even through air currents. They thrive in conditions of high humidity and poor air circulation, which are common in indoor environments. The pathogens enter the plant tissues through natural pores or wounds on the leaves, leading to the characteristic spot formation.
Mealybugs	Medium	Infestations of mealybugs on Aglaonema costatum manifest as cottony, white masses found in leaf axils, on the undersides of leaves, and along stems. These pests are small, oval-shaped insects covered in a powdery, white, waxy secretion that gives them their characteristic appearance. Affected leaves may turn yellow and sticky due to the honeydew secreted by the mealybugs. This honeydew can also promote the growth of sooty mold, a black fungus that further disfigures the plant and can hinder photosynthesis. Severe infestations can lead to stunted growth, leaf drop, and overall plant decline, weakening the Aglaonema's ability to thrive.	Mealybugs are tiny, soft-bodied insects that feed on plant sap. They are often introduced to houseplants through infested new plants, contaminated soil, or by being carried on clothing or tools. They prefer warm, humid environments, making indoor plants especially vulnerable. Their cottony coating provides protection from predators and drying out. They reproduce rapidly, laying eggs in cottony masses, which quickly hatch into nymphs that spread the infestation.
Spider Mites	Medium	Spider mites on Aglaonema costatum typically appear as tiny, moving specks, often red or brown, on the undersides of leaves. The initial symptom is stippling – small, pale yellow or white dots on the leaf surface caused by the mites piercing and sucking out plant juices. As the infestation worsens, the leaves will become bronzed, speckled, and eventually show webbing, a fine, silken net spun by the mites, especially in leaf axils and along stems. Severely infested plants will exhibit significant leaf yellowing, browning, and premature leaf drop. The plant will appear generally unhealthy and lack vigor.	Spider mites are arachnids, not insects, and thrive in hot, dry conditions. Indoor plants, especially those placed near heat sources or in low humidity environments, are highly susceptible. They feed by piercing plant cells and injecting enzymes, causing damage that appears as stippling. Their small size and rapid reproduction allow infestations to escalate quickly. The fine webbing is a hallmark of a more established infestation.
Powdery Mildew	Low	Powdery mildew on Aglaonema costatum typically appears as a white or grayish powdery coating on the surface of the leaves and sometimes stems. This condition often starts as small, isolated patches but can quickly spread to cover large areas of the foliage. The affected leaf tissue may become distorted, yellow, and eventually necrotic, leading to leaf drop. The white coating is actually a mass of fungal spores. While generally not fatal on its own, severe infestations can weaken the plant, reduce its aesthetic appeal, and make it more susceptible to other diseases.	Powdery mildew is a fungal disease caused by various species of fungi in the order Erysiphales. It thrives in conditions of moderate temperatures and high humidity, especially when there is poor air circulation. The fungal spores are airborne and land on the plant's surface, where they germinate and infect the plant. Lack of sunlight can also contribute to its development. It feeds on the plant's tissues, weakening it and reducing its ability to photosynthesize.
Root Rot	High	Aglaonema costatum experiencing root rot will typically show a general decline in vigor. The leaves may lose their vibrant color, becoming dull, yellow, or even brown, often starting from the lower foliage and progressing upwards. Wilting is a significant symptom, even when the soil appears moist, as the compromised roots are unable to absorb water effectively. The stems might become soft and water-soaked at the base, and a foul odor may emanate from the soil. In severe cases, the entire plant can collapse and die quite rapidly. Upon examination, the roots will appear dark brown or black, mushy, and may easily break apart, a stark contrast to healthy, firm, white roots.	Root rot in Aglaonema costatum is primarily caused by overwatering and poor drainage. Fungi, such as Pythium, Phytophthora, and Rhizoctonia, are the most common culprits, thriving in soggy soil conditions. These pathogens infect the roots, decaying them and preventing the plant from taking up essential water and nutrients. Compacted soil that doesn't allow for adequate aeration also contributes to the problem, creating an anaerobic environment favorable for fungal growth. Using pots without drainage holes or potting mix that retains too much moisture exacerbates the risk.

Disease / Pest	Solution	Prevention	Treatment
Leaf Spot	To treat leaf spot on Aglaonema costatum, first remove and destroy all infected leaves to prevent further spread. Improve air circulation by spacing plants apart and using a fan if necessary. Avoid overhead watering; instead, water at the base of the plant to keep the foliage dry. For persistent or severe cases, a broad-spectrum fungicide can be applied according to label instructions. Copper-based fungicides or those containing chlorothalonil are often effective. Regular applications, typically every 7-14 days during active growth, may be required. Ensure thorough coverage of all leaf surfaces. Fungicides are best used as a preventative measure for healthy plants or at the first sign of disease.	Preventing leaf spot on Aglaonema costatum involves maintaining a healthy growing environment. Ensure good air circulation around your plants. Avoid wetting the foliage when watering, opting for bottom watering or watering at the base. Remove any dead or decaying leaves promptly, as they can harbor pathogens. If you live in a humid climate or have a consistently damp environment, consider using a fungicide as a preventative measure during periods of high risk. Promptly address any signs of stress in your plant, as healthy plants are more resilient to diseases.	Monterey Complete Disease Control
Mealybugs	For mealybug infestations on Aglaonema costatum, the first step is to physically remove as many visible insects as possible. This can be done using a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol). Dab the alcohol directly onto each mealybug and mass. For more widespread infestations, a horticultural insecticidal soap or neem oil spray can be effective. Be sure to spray thoroughly, covering all affected areas, including the undersides of leaves and leaf axils. Repeat applications every 7-10 days until the infestation is completely gone, as this routine helps to kill newly hatched nymphs. Inspect the plant and surrounding plants regularly to ensure they have not been re-infested.	Preventing mealybug infestations on Aglaonema costatum involves regular inspection of your plants. Quarantine any new plants for a few weeks before introducing them to your existing collection. Regularly check the undersides of leaves and leaf axils for any signs of white, cottony masses. Maintain good plant hygiene by removing dead leaves and debris. Avoid over-fertilizing, as lush new growth can be more attractive to pests. Ensure good air circulation around your plants, as mealybugs prefer stagnant conditions. If you notice any early signs, act quickly with physical removal or targeted treatment before the infestation spreads.	Neem Oil
Spider Mites	To address spider mites on Aglaonema costatum, begin by physically washing the plant or wiping down leaves with a damp cloth to remove as many mites and webbing as possible. For persistent infestations, a horticultural insecticidal soap or neem oil spray is highly effective. Ensure thorough coverage, especially on the undersides of leaves where mites congregate. Repeat treatments every 5-7 days for several weeks, as this timing targets the mite life cycle, including newly hatched eggs. Increasing humidity around the plant, such as by misting or placing it near a humidifier, can also help deter spider mites.	Preventing spider mite infestations on Aglaonema costatum involves maintaining optimal growing conditions. Keep humidity levels higher, especially during dry indoor seasons, by misting regularly or using a pebble tray. Avoid placing plants near heat vents or direct sunlight, which creates dry conditions favorable to mites. Inspect new plants thoroughly before adding them to your collection. Regularly wipe down leaves with a damp cloth to remove any dust and potential mite eggs. If you notice dry, dusty-looking leaves, it's a good indicator to inspect closely for early signs of mites.	Horticultural Oil
Powdery Mildew	To treat powdery mildew on Aglaonema costatum, begin by removing and destroying any infected leaves or parts of the plant. Improve air circulation by spacing plants apart and opening windows or using a fan. Avoid watering the leaves, and water at the base of the plant. A baking soda solution (1 tablespoon baking soda and 1 teaspoon horticultural oil or liquid soap in 1 gallon of water) can be sprayed on affected areas. Alternatively, commercial fungicides specifically formulated for powdery mildew, such as those containing potassium bicarbonate or sulfur, can be used. Follow product instructions carefully. For persistent issues, horticultural oils or neem oil can also be effective.	Preventing powdery mildew on Aglaonema costatum involves creating an environment less conducive to fungal growth. Ensure good air circulation around your plants by spacing them adequately and using a fan if needed. Avoid overwatering and maintain consistent, moderate humidity levels, but avoid excessive dampness, especially on the foliage. Water at the base of the plant in the morning to allow leaves to dry throughout the day. If the plant is in a shaded area, consider moving it to a location with brighter, indirect light. Regularly inspect your plant for any early signs of white growth and address them promptly.	Baking Soda Spray (Homemade)
Root Rot	If root rot is suspected, gently remove the Aglaonema costatum from its pot. Carefully inspect the roots, trimming away any dark, mushy, or foul-smelling ones with sterilized shears. Repot the plant in fresh, well-draining potting mix, preferably a mix formulated for aroids or houseplants with added perlite or orchid bark for better aeration. Ensure the new pot has adequate drainage holes. Water sparingly until the plant shows signs of recovery, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Fungicides specifically formulated for root rot can be applied as a drench to the soil, following product instructions carefully. In severe cases where a significant portion of the roots are compromised, propagation through stem cuttings might be the only viable option for salvaging the plant.	To prevent root rot in Aglaonema costatum, proper watering is paramount. Allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry out between waterings, and avoid letting the plant sit in standing water. Use a well-draining potting mix, and ensure the pot has drainage holes. Repot the plant when it becomes root-bound, typically every 2-3 years, into a slightly larger pot with fresh soil. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to salt buildup that stresses the roots. Maintain good air circulation around the plant to help the soil dry more evenly. Regularly inspect the plant for any early signs of distress, such as yellowing leaves or wilting, to address potential issues before they become severe.	Southern Ag Liquid Copper Fungicide

5 known issues for Aglaonema Costatum

7.Aglaonema Costatum — Seasonal Care Calendar

Watering Tracker

No watering recorded yet

❄️Januarywinter

Check winter moisture and remove damaged leaves.

❄️Februarywinter

Inspect for pests and refresh mulch or pot top-dressing.

🌸Marchspring

Begin light feeding as active growth resumes.

🌸Aprilspring

Prune lightly and repot container plants if roots are crowded.

☀️Maysummer

Increase watering gradually during warmer, brighter weather.

☀️Junesummer

Monitor heat stress and keep soil evenly managed.

NOW

🌧️Julymonsoon

Water deeply when dry and maintain airflow around foliage.

🌧️Augustmonsoon

Remove faded growth and watch for mites, scale, or mildew.

🍂Septemberautumn

Reduce feeding and prepare the plant for slower growth.

🍂Octoberautumn

Move tender plants away from cold drafts or early frost.

❄️Novemberwinter

Keep care steady, with less fertilizer and careful watering.

❄️Decemberwinter

Clean foliage and review light, drainage, and safety needs.

🌸 Spring☀️ Summer🌧️ Monsoon🍂 Autumn❄️ Winter

8.Aglaonema Costatum — Advantages of Growing

Exceptional aesthetic appeal — Exceptional aesthetic appeal with unique leaf patterns and dark green coloration.
Tolerates low light — Tolerates low light conditions, making it suitable for various indoor environments.
Considered an air — purifying plant, contributing to better indoor air quality.
Relatively low maintenance — Relatively low maintenance compared to many other indoor ornamental plants.
Aesthetic appeal — Adds useful foliage, flowers, form, or texture.
Practical care — Responds well to steady light, drainage, and watering.
Collection value — Improves botanical diversity.
Educational use — Helps compare family, genus, species, and habit.
Container potential — Can often be managed in containers with drainage.
Seasonal interest — Shows changes in growth, flowering, or rest.
Maintenance clarity — Clear routines reduce care mistakes.
Editorial value — Supports a complete plant page.

9.Aglaonema Costatum — Frequently Asked Questions

10.Aglaonema Costatum — References & Datasets

External Databases

Plants of the World Online (Kew)	Visit
World Flora Online	Visit
IUCN Red List	Visit
PubMed	Visit
Dr. Duke's Phytochemical Database (USDA)	Visit

Data sourced from Flora Medical Global research database. Last updated: check plant page header.

Reviewed by the Flora Medical Global Botanical Review Panel

Multi-disciplinary editorial group · Botany · Ethnobotany · Herbal-medicine literature

Who reviewed this: This page was checked by the Flora Medical Global Botanical Review Panel — an in-house editorial group of botany graduates, ethnobotany researchers, and horticulture practitioners who collectively maintain our 7,000+ plant encyclopedia. Meet the team.

Our 4-step verification process

1. Taxonomic verification
Scientific names and synonyms cross-checked against Kew POWO, World Flora Online, and The Plant List.
2. Phytochemical & medicinal cross-reference
Active compounds, traditional uses, and reported activities are cross-referenced with PubMed, USDA Dr. Duke's database, and peer-reviewed ethnobotanical literature.
3. Conservation & distribution check
Distribution, ecology, and conservation status confirmed against GBIF occurrence records and the IUCN Red List.
4. Editorial & safety review
Every entry passes an editorial pass for clarity, originality, and safety notices (toxicity, contraindications, dosage caveats) before publication.

Last reviewed: June 28, 2026

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Editorial Note: This page is for educational and plant care purposes only.

Written by: Flora Medical Global Editorial Team

Reviewed by: Flora Medical Global Botanical Review Panel

Last Updated: June 28, 2026

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