Aglaonema Red Dragon - Chinese evergreen

The Aglaonema ‘Red Dragon’ captivates with its vividly coloured leaves, blending deep red and rich green in a striking contrast. Whether in modern, bohemian, or tropical interiors, this low-maintenance plant adds a touch of lush nature to your décor. Place it in a bright spot without direct sunlight to preserve the vibrancy of its colours. Maintain some humidity by regularly misting its leaves.

The Aglaonema 'Red Dragon' belongs to the Araceae family and is a horticultural cultivar developed for its ornamental qualities. This perennial plant exhibits slow growth, typically reaching a height of 40 cm to 1 m depending on growing conditions, with a spread of up to 50 cm. Its habit is both bushy and upright, forming a compact clump of evergreen leaves. The leaves, borne on long petioles, are broad, lanceolate, or ovate. They display intense red hues with a dark green border. Flowering, though rare indoors, may occur in late summer in the form of white or yellow spathes, typical of Araceae.

The Aglaonema genus includes around 60 species native to the tropical forests of Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia. These plants thrive under the canopy of humid forests, benefiting from filtered light and a warm, humid atmosphere.

Indoors, the Aglaonema prefers indirect light, avoiding direct sun, and can even tolerate low-light environments. Moderate to high ambient humidity is ideal, with temperatures between 16°C and 25°C. It is essential to protect the plant from drafts and temperatures below 10°C. Regular but moderate watering is recommended, allowing the substrate to dry slightly between waterings.

Aglaonema is toxic if ingested due to the presence of calcium oxalate crystals, which can irritate mucous membranes. This plant is known for its air-purifying properties, particularly its ability to absorb molecules such as benzene and formaldehyde.

The Aglaonema ‘Red Dragon’ fits perfectly into modern, bohemian, or tropical interiors thanks to its spectacular red and green foliage. Place it in the living room on a stylish shelf or in a textured ceramic planter for an elegant effect. In a conservatory or reading nook, this plant brings a warm and soothing ambiance. Its bushy, compact habit also makes it a lovely choice for a console or coffee table. Opt for a natural wood or black metal stand to enhance its exotic and contemporary appeal. To highlight the Aglaonema ‘Red Dragon’, pair it with, for example, the Calathea ‘Medallion’, with its broad green and purple leaves, and the Philodendron ‘Brasil’. Together, these plants create a lush display in a relaxation corner or bright conservatory.