Aglaonema 'Red Valentine' – Botanical Profile and Care Guide
Introducing Aglaonema 'Red Valentine'
Aglaonema 'Red Valentine' is a vibrant hybrid cultivar selected for its dramatic pink-red foliage accented by green margins and occasional yellow-green flecks. Bred for ornamental purposes in tropical Asia, this low-maintenance houseplant stands out with its bold coloration and compact, easy-going growth habit. Whether for modern interiors or cozy home offices, 'Red Valentine' brings long-lasting color with minimal effort.
Highlights of Aglaonema 'Red Valentine'
- Dynamic Foliage: Broad, glossy leaves transitioning from soft pink in juvenile stages to intense red hues when mature.
- Color Contrast: Bright pink centers framed by dark green leaf edges and fine yellow-green speckles.
- Compact Form: Reaches approximately 50–60 cm in indoor environments, suitable for smaller spaces or decorative displays.
- Light Flexibility: Adapts to lower light but maintains strongest color under bright, indirect light conditions.
Essential Care Instructions for Aglaonema 'Red Valentine'
- Lighting: Prefers bright, indirect light for optimal color intensity. Tolerates lower light but foliage may dull slightly.
- Watering: Allow the top 2–3 cm of substrate to dry before watering again. Ensure excess water drains well.
- Humidity: Thrives at moderate to high humidity (50–70%). Consider supplemental humidity in very dry rooms.
- Temperature Requirements: Ideal temperature range between 18–27°C. Avoid exposure to cold drafts.
- Soil Preferences: Use a fast-draining, peat-free potting mix to maintain healthy root conditions.
- Fertilization: Feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 6–8 weeks when actively growing.
Common Growing Challenges for Aglaonema 'Red Valentine' (and Solutions)
- Yellow Leaves: Typically a sign of overwatering. Adjust irrigation practices and improve drainage.
- Brown Leaf Edges: Caused by low humidity or salt buildup from fertilizers. Increase humidity and flush soil periodically.
- Leaf Color Fading: Due to insufficient light. Relocate to a brighter, filtered light location.
- Insect Infestations: Monitor for spider mites, scale, or mealybugs. Treat with natural insecticidal soap promptly.
Top Tips for Growing Aglaonema 'Red Valentine'
- Maximize Color: Provide bright, indirect light to maintain vivid pink and red pigmentation.
- Promote Even Growth: Rotate the pot every few weeks to ensure balanced exposure and symmetrical development.
- Stable Environment: Position away from heaters, air conditioning vents, or drafty windows.
Natural Habitat Connection for Aglaonema 'Red Valentine'
Although 'Red Valentine' is a cultivated hybrid, it traces its ancestry to Aglaonema species native to the lowland rainforests of Southeast Asia and the Philippines. These dense, shaded environments provide high humidity, filtered light, and consistently warm temperatures — conditions that should be mirrored indoors for optimal plant health.
Botanical Etymology of Aglaonema 'Red Valentine'
The genus name Aglaonema derives from the Greek 'aglaos' (bright) and 'nema' (thread), referencing the brilliant stamens produced during flowering. The cultivar name 'Red Valentine' highlights the plant’s distinctive red-toned foliage, evoking a sense of boldness and warmth.
Answers to Common Questions About Aglaonema 'Red Valentine'
- Does 'Red Valentine' grow well in low light? Yes, but leaf colors are brightest with medium, indirect light exposure.
- How often should I water? Water when the top 2–3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid letting the plant sit in water.
- How can I boost humidity? Use a pebble tray, room humidifier, or group plants together to raise ambient moisture levels.
Order Aglaonema 'Red Valentine' for Your Plant Collection
Brighten your indoor jungle with Aglaonema 'Red Valentine' — a compact, colorful plant that's as resilient as it is beautiful. Order yours today and enjoy vibrant foliage year-round!
Aglaonema 'Red Valentine'
Aglaonema 'Red Valentine' comes in a ⌀ 6 cm pot and is ca 12 cm tall.