Aglaonema ‘Jubilee Petite’

Aglaonema ‘Jubilee Petite’, a compact Chinese evergreen, brings soft, silvery-green foliage and lush tropical character to smaller spaces. Its pale leaf centers contrast beautifully with deeper green edges, creating an elegant tabletop plant that is as approachable for beginners as it is appealing to foliage collectors.

Light: Provide medium to bright, gentle light. An east-facing window or filtered light near a brighter window works well. It tolerates lower light, but growth will slow. Avoid strong direct sun.

Water: Allow the upper 1 to 2 inches of soil to dry before watering thoroughly. Drain excess water and avoid leaving the pot standing in a filled saucer. Water less frequently during cool, low-light periods. Use room-temperature water.

Humidity: Ordinary household humidity is generally suitable. Moderate humidity can help keep foliage looking its best, but a cabinet is unnecessary. Most San Francisco homes will not need additional humidity; in drier Oakland or San Jose homes, consider a humidifier if indoor air is persistently dry.

Soil: Use a moisture-retentive but well-draining houseplant mix amended with perlite or pumice and a little fine orchid bark. Choose a pot with drainage holes.

Temperature: Aim for approximately 68 to 80°F. Protect it from cold windows and drafts, and avoid temperatures below 55°F. Indoor cultivation is the most reliable choice in the Bay Area.

Growth Habit: A compact, upright foliage plant that develops a full silhouette. Well suited to desks, shelves, and smaller tabletop displays.

Fertilizer: Feed lightly during active growth with a balanced houseplant fertilizer at a diluted strength, approximately monthly. Reduce feeding when growth slows and occasionally flush the substrate to limit salt buildup.

Flowers: May produce small spathe-and-spadix inflorescences among the leaves. These are less showy than the foliage and can be removed if you prefer a foliage-focused display.

Pest Care: Check leaf undersides and stem bases for mealybugs, scale, and mites. Wipe leaves gently to remove dust and inspect new plants before placing them beside your collection.

Pet Safety: Toxic to cats and dogs. Aglaonema contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause mouth irritation, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing if chewed. Keep it away from pets and contact a veterinarian if ingestion occurs.