**Aglaonema 'Peacock'** is a stunning variety of the Aglaonema plant, known for its vibrant, patterned foliage that makes it an attractive choice for indoor decor. Aglaonemas are commonly referred to as **Chinese Evergreens**, and they are popular due to their tolerance of low light and minimal care requirements. Here's a detailed overview of **Aglaonema 'Peacock'**:
### Key Information about Aglaonema 'Peacock':
- **Foliage**: The most notable feature of Aglaonema 'Peacock' is its bold, variegated leaves. The leaves are a striking mix of dark green, silver, and cream, with intricate patterns that resemble a peacock's plumage. The leaves are broad, glossy, and lance-shaped, providing a rich, tropical appearance.
- **Size**: This plant grows to a height of approximately 60-90 cm (2-3 feet), making it a great choice for tabletops, shelves, or as a floor plant in small spaces. Its spread can be around 60 cm (2 feet) wide, and it grows slowly, making it a low-maintenance option.
- **Light Requirements**: Aglaonema 'Peacock' thrives in low to moderate indirect light, which makes it an ideal indoor plant for rooms that don’t receive much natural light. It can adapt to low-light conditions, but bright, indirect light will help retain its vibrant leaf color. Direct sunlight should be avoided as it can cause the leaves to burn.
- **Watering**: This plant prefers slightly moist soil. Water when the top inch of soil becomes dry, and reduce watering in the cooler months. Be cautious not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. The plant likes consistent moisture but should not sit in waterlogged soil.
- **Humidity**: Aglaonema 'Peacock' enjoys environments with moderate humidity. While it can tolerate normal household humidity, higher humidity levels are preferred to prevent the leaf tips from browning. If your home is particularly dry, misting the plant or placing it near a humidifier can be beneficial.
- **Temperature**: The plant grows best in warm environments between 18-26°C (65-80°F). It is sensitive to cold drafts and should not be placed near open windows or air conditioning units.
- **Soil**: Aglaonema 'Peacock' thrives in well-draining soil. A good potting mix with peat moss, perlite, or sand works well, ensuring that the roots do not stay too wet.
- **Fertilizing**: Feed the plant once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Reduce feeding during the fall and winter months.
- **Propagation**: Aglaonema 'Peacock' can be propagated easily through division during repotting or from stem cuttings. Cuttings should be placed in water or soil to root.
- **Toxicity**: Like other Aglaonema varieties, 'Peacock' contains calcium oxalate crystals that can be toxic if ingested by pets or humans. It’s best to keep it out of reach of children and pets.
### Common Problems:
- **Yellowing Leaves**: This is often a sign of overwatering. Make sure the soil has good drainage and adjust the watering schedule accordingly.
- **Leaf Browning**: This can result from low humidity or dry air. Increasing humidity through misting or using a humidifier can help alleviate this issue.
- **Pests**: Aglaonema 'Peacock' is generally resistant to pests, but it can occasionally attract common houseplant pests like spider mites or mealybugs. Regularly inspect the plant and treat it with insecticidal soap if needed.
### Benefits:
- **Air Purification**: Like other Aglaonemas, 'Peacock' helps purify indoor air by filtering out toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene, improving indoor air quality.
This plant is an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced gardeners due to its low maintenance and striking appearance. If you need further details on how to care for your Aglaonema 'Peacock', feel free to ask!