Wishes Chinese Evergreen

Wishes Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema commutatum 'Wishes') is a broad leafed foliage plant, about 60cm tall and wide, with deep green, glossy leaves strongly marked in a warm, vibrant red-pink. Each leaf looks freckled with bright pink and cream. It makes a lovely houseplant and an eye-catching shade plant in tropical gardens, as long as it stays above 15C.

Why you'll love it

• Warm red-pink markings. Broad, glossy leaves carry strong pink and red tones, a bolder look than the softer cream and green types.
• Room to make a statement. At about 60cm tall and wide it holds its own in a floor pot or the middle of a shaded bed.
• Glossy, broad foliage. The deep green leaves reflect light and set off the colour.
• Happy in shade. It grows in shady forest conditions, so indirect light suits it perfectly.
• Simple to keep. Nothing needs cutting back. Just take off tired leaves now and then.

Where it works best

Feature pot indoors. Give it a corner in a well lit room, in a large pot, where the red-pink leaves can be seen from across the room.

Covered verandahs. In warm regions it lights up a shaded entry or patio without a single flower.

Tropical garden beds. In frost free, shady gardens, plant 50cm apart beneath trees and palms for a bold ground layer.

Growing Wishes Chinese Evergreen in Australia

Position and climate. A shady spot with indirect sunlight. It needs temperatures above 15C to stay beautiful, so garden planting suits only tropical and warm subtropical areas. Everywhere else, enjoy it indoors.

Soil. Free draining soil or a good quality potting mix. Pots need drainage holes, with regular irrigation through the warmer months.

Water and feed. Give it regular water for the first 12 weeks, then water only when the soil seems dry. A yearly slow release fertiliser and a liquid feed every three months bring out the colour.

Pruning. Nothing beyond taking off old leaves. Wash your hands afterwards, because the sap can irritate skin.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Wishes Chinese Evergreen as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly. The tube is small, and the plant takes time to build the broad leaves it is known for, so give it a warm, bright spot out of direct sun while it grows.

Our grower supplies the tube stock, and supply comes and goes. If the tube shows as sold out, the grower has none at that moment: press the notify button on the page and we email you the day it returns.

Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• Chinese evergreens and aglaonemas
• House and indoor plants
• Plants for partial shade
• Designing a lush tropical garden

Common questions

How big will it get?

About 60cm tall and 60cm wide, so it is one of the larger Chinese evergreens. Give it a roomy pot.

Will it grow outdoors?

Yes, in tropical and warm subtropical gardens in shade, where it stays above 15C. In cooler regions grow it as a houseplant.

Should I keep it away from pets?

Yes. The sap is irritating and the plant is toxic if eaten, so keep it away from pets and children.