Aglaonema B.J. Freeman
📖 About this plant
Aglaonema B.J. Freeman is a robust, all-green variety of Chinese Evergreen derived from the Aglaonema nitidum species from the Philippines. The dark, glossy green leaves have a distinctive velvety sheen that sets them apart from other all-green Aglaonema varieties. A prominent lighter midrib runs down the center of each leaf, adding subtle visual interest. This is one of the most cold-tolerant and adaptable Aglaonema varieties, capable of thriving in conditions that would stress more delicate cultivars. Its velvety leaf texture adds a tactile dimension that makes it a pleasure to touch as well as view.
🧑🌾 Care requirements
Low to Bright Indirect Light
When top 2-3 cm of soil is dry
40-60%
16-30°C (60-85°F)
Standard well-draining potting mix with perlite
Balanced liquid fertilizer every 6-8 weeks during growing season
📋 Plant facts
- 🌍 Origin
- Philippines — natural Aglaonema nitidum cultivar
- 📏 Max height
- 60-90 cm (2-3 ft)
- 📐 Spread
- 45-75 cm (1.5-2.5 ft)
- 🕰️ Bloom time
- Occasionally in summer — rare indoors
- 🎨 Bloom color
- Greenish-white spathe
- 🍃 Foliage color
- Dark, glossy green leaves with a velvety sheen and prominent lighter midrib
- ⏳ Lifespan
- Perennial (10-15+ years indoors)
- 📈 Growth rate
- Moderate to Fast
- ☠️ Toxicity
- Toxic to cats and dogs — calcium oxalate crystals cause oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing
- 🌱 Propagation
- Stem cuttings in water or soil; division; roots in 2-4 weeks
🛡️ Health & Safety
Toxic to cats and dogs — calcium oxalate crystals cause oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing
Common issues
- Yellow leaves from overwatering, brown tips from low humidity or fluoride, dusty velvety leaves reducing appearance, occasional mealybugs, root rot in waterlogged soil, leggy growth in very low light
💡 Care tips
- The most cold-tolerant Aglaonema variety — can withstand temperatures down to 15°C (60°F) briefly. The velvety leaf texture means water spots show easily — water from the base. Dust accumulation is more visible on the matte finish — wipe regularly with a soft, damp cloth. This variety is extremely long-lived, often surviving 15+ years. An excellent choice for offices, lobbies, and public spaces where reliability is essential. One of the best air-purifying Aglaonema varieties due to its large, efficient leaves.
