Aglaonema Pictum Bicolor Plant, Grow & Care Guide 2023

Not to be outshined by its variegated cousin, the Aglaonema Pictum Bicolor is also stunning with its dual-colored leaves of light and dark green. While the Aglaonema Pictum Tricolor has army-camouflaged leaves with white, bright green, and dark green colors, Bicolor has marbling with spots of contrasting lime and deep green.

It is categorized as an ornamental plant that flourishes in subtropical to tropical areas. These plants are extremely rare and valuable. If you are considering purchasing this lovely plant to add to your wonderful collection or garden, keep on reading!

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What is Aglaonema Pictum Bicolor Plant?

The Aglaonema Pictum Bicolor is a sought-after plant, which originated in the rainforests of Southeast Asia, especially Indonesia. It is a shrub with a stem height of 60 centimeters. In Indonesia, Aglaonema is called “Sri Rejeki” and is thought to give positive energy for sustenance.

It is even recognized by NASA as an effective plant in eliminating air pollutants like formaldehyde and benzane. In ancient Greek, Aglaonema translates to “shiny plant.”

This plant is low maintenance as it grows slowly. You can put it by the window as you admire its beauty in the morning light, but keep in mind that it prefers indirect light and can’t endure direct sunlight.

Since it is indigenous to Sumatra, it loves an environment with greater temperatures and high humidity, though it can withstand temperatures as low as 18°C. Do stick around as we offer some valuable tips and advice in growing and maintaining this splendid shrub.

Origin and Classification

The Aglaonema Pictum is a perennial evergreen that is endemic to Indonesia. These plants grow between 1,000 and 2,000 meters on the slopes of major volcanos but are sometimes gathered as low as 35 meters. They can be found in Sumatra and Nias Island.

They are from the Arum family, which is also called the Araceae. Aglaonema plants are indigenous to Asia’s tropical and subtropical regions, as well as New Guinea. They are commonly referred to as Chinese evergreens.

For centuries, they have been considered as a lucky ornamental plant in Asia. In the late 19th century they made their first appearance in the west when they were brought to the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Features of Aglaonema Pictum Bicolor Plant

True to its name, the Aglaonema Pictum Bicolor’s oval leaves have two colors, dark green and light green, combined to create a marbled design. This plant has a stem height of about 60 centimeters, and it is brown and round. The leaf midrib marks are still noticeable.

1. Leaves

When you look at the Aglaonema Pictum Bicolor, you’ll notice right away that it is prized for its striking leaves, which have a dominant dark green color combined with irregular light green spots scattered randomly. The leaves of this lovely plant will turn yellow if it receives insufficient light, so make sure that it’s receiving the love and light it needs!

2. Flowers

Aglaonema Pictum plants bloom flowers, but as they are more known for their fantastic foliage, there’s some debate among gardeners and houseplant growers about whether you should keep or remove them.

The flowers form a spadix and are surrounded by a colored spathe. Some contend that the flowers should be cut off as they would only take energy from the plant, and you can focus more on sustaining the lovely leaves.

However, it is entirely up to you. If you prefer to leave the flower, then you may do so. If the plant is blossoming, then it means it’s healthy and thriving.

3. Uses

Aside from being a beautifier in your home, Aglaonema plants are also natural air purifiers. No need to purchase expensive air purifiers with this plant! Remember, natural is most often better. The growing interest in plants as air purifiers, or “phytoremediation,” stems from concerns about the quality of indoor air, as people spend more and more time inside, especially with the pandemic.

4. Toxicity

As with a lot of plants, it is best to keep this away from young children and pets, as they contain crystals called calcium oxalate.

Upon ingestion, animals may have difficulties swallowing, swelling of the mouth and tongue, and vomiting or foaming at the mouth. Humans may experience stomach aches, mucus membrane irritation, and painful rashes.

Basic Care of Aglaonema Pictum Bicolor Plant

Generally, the Aglaonema Pictum Bicolor is a fuss-free, easy-to-grow plant. Still, it’s wise to have knowledge to maximize their growth and potential. Here is a comprehensive guide to caring for this bicolor beauty.

1. Size and Growth

The Aglaonema Pictum Bicolor has a slow, steady, and upright growth. As with a lot of beautiful things, it takes time to mature, so just be patient! Its sturdy stem can reach up to 60 centimeters in height. 

2. Light Requirements

Under natural conditions, some Aglaonema Pictum Bicolor grow in shady areas in forests, where little light goes through. Thus, these plants are shade-tolerant, and their leaves might get scorched in direct sunlight. However, to keep the beautiful pattern of their leaves, bright indirect sunlight would be best. You may place it near an east or north-facing window to get sufficient light.

3. Water Requirements

The Aglaonema Pictum Bicolor likes being watered abundantly during its growing season (spring to summer), and you may water it two to three times a week. However, observe if the top two inches of the soil is dry between waterings, as it doesn’t like to be overwatered. During the rainy and cold seasons, you should lessen the water by watering only once or twice a week.

4. Soil Requirements

The Aglaonema Pictum Bicolor thrives in rich, organic, fertile soil that drains well. Three parts coco peat, one part compost, and three parts pumice or perlite make an excellent potting mix for this plant. Adequate drainage is required to maintain health. It also flourishes in hydroponics.

5. Temperature and Humidity

The ideal temperature for growth is 20-25 degrees Celsius. In the winter, the temperature should not fall below 16-18C, and sudden temperature changes should be avoided. The Aglaonema Pictum Bicolor enjoys humidity levels of 65% and more.

If the air is too dry, the leaves would shrivel and become deformed. You may mist it regularly to avoid this. To boost the humidity level, you may place the plants in a pallet with wet pebbles, peat, or expanded clay.

6. Pest and Disease Resistance

Ensure that the Aglaonema Pictum Bicolor plant’s leaves and stems are free from pests that can inhibit plant growth, such as spider mites and scale. Furthermore, it is susceptible to bacterial-related leaf diseases.

Spider Mites

Spider mites suck the chlorophyll out of plants causing speckled discoloration on the leaves. They are usually white and yellow in color. To resolve infestations, make a solution with 2 tablespoons of neem oil and 1 gallon of water. Spray it on the plant, paying special attention to the lower surface of the leaves. Increasing the humidity level around your plant can also keep spider mites at bay.  

Scale

If you see brown oval bulges on the leaves with honey residue, it means that scale insects are feeding on your plant. You may remove them using a flat blade. Then, wash off the honey residue and baby scale (crawlers). You may make a solution with half a teaspoon of neem oil, natural soap, and water. Spritz it all over the plant. Always check your plant from time to time for any signs of pest infestation.

Bacterial Leaf Spots

When you notice that there are irregular dark spots on your plant’s leaves that get bigger in size, it’s a sign that there’s a bacterial infection. Remove infected leaves and stems right away. Make a solution with 1 tablespoon of baking soda, 2 1/2 tablespoons of horticulture oil, and 1 teaspoon of liquid dish soap in a gallon of water. Spray the plant with this solution every two weeks.

Copper Deficiency

Leaves with copper deficiency appear to be stunted and chlorotic. When this happens, apply copper sulfate to the soil. You may also mist the leaves with a copper spray. Remember to always use high-quality soil when potting and repotting to ensure that your plant is getting all the much-needed nutrients.

7. Fertilizing

Fertilize using diluted fertilizer (half-strength, nitrogen-rich) during the growing season (spring to summer), about twice monthly. Take heed that you don’t put too much fertilizer as it can burn the roots.

8. Potting and Repotting

A great potting mix for the Aglaonema Pictum Bicolor is three parts coco peat, one part compost, and three parts pumice or perlite. Due to its slow growth rate, this plant only needs to be repotted every three to five years.

When repotting, use a container that is a bit bigger (about 2 inches) than the previous one. Signs that it’s time to repot are roots creeping through the pot’s drainage holes, yellow leaves, poor water retention of the soil, and the plant generally bulging from the container.

Be mindful that you give your plant extra care and attention after you have repotted it, as it can experience some shock in being uprooted from their usual conditions and moved to a new one. Provide adequate lighting, warmth, and moisture, and your plant would surely recover eventually.

10. Pruning Requirements

Too much pruning can damage your plant’s health, so only remove dead leaves.

How to Propagate Aglaonema Pictum Bicolor

Spring and summer are the best seasons for propagating the Aglaonema Pictum Bicolor. There are two methods for propagation: stem cuttings and seed propagation.

Stem Propagation

The most common method is using stem cuttings.

Step 1

Prepare the things that you’ll be utilizing: sterilized scissors, gardening gloves, and a new bigger pot (with good organic soil).

Step 2

Cut off a stem from the parent plant. It should be about 6 inches (15 cm) long and has at least one leaf node and five leaves attached.

Step 3

Dry the cutting and dip the end in some rooting hormone.

Step 4

Place the pot in a warm and bright location.

Step 5

Be patient! It takes about 25 to 45 days for new shoots to grow.

Seed Propagation

Step 1

Remove the berries from the spadix.

Step 2

Open the fleshy covering to obtain the seeds.

Step 3

Rinse the seeds thoroughly.

Step 4

Fill a shallow pot with coco peat or a mix of equal parts peat and sand.

Step 5

Scatter the seeds on the surface and carefully cover them with a thin layer of soil.

Step 6

Put the pot in a warm location with enough indirect light.

Step 7

Wait and observe. It takes 45 to 60 days to germinate. The Aglaonema Pictum Bicolor is a slow grower, so it requires a lot of patience. Eventually, you will be rewarded with a beautiful plant with splendid, glossy leaves.

Common Problems Caring for Aglaonema Pictum Bicolor

Although the Aglaonema Pictum Bicolor only requires low maintenance, you should still shower it with love and care, as it can also be prone to some issues.

1. Brown Leaves

When leaves turn brown and brittle, this is an indication that the soil is too dry and your plant is dehydrated. Water the plant and follow a consistent watering schedule in the future. The damaged leaves won’t go back to its original green color, but future growth should be the same color.

2. Curling or Drooping Leaves

This generally means that your plant is exposed to too much sunlight and it’s thirsty. Transfer the plant to a shaded area. Inspect if the area has high humidity, as the Aglaonema Pictum Bicolor loves this. Make sure to water your plant on schedule as well.

3. Yellow Leaves

Yellow leaves are a sign of excessive watering, which can cause root decay. Inspect if your plant’s root system is still healthy. Make sure your pot has an adequate drainage system. Decrease the watering frequency. As a gardener’s rule, only water when the top 2 inches of soil are dry when you touch it. Remove yellow leaves with sterilized shears.

4. Root Rot

If the roots are brown and squishy, then it means that root rot has begun. Unfortunately, this is irreversible. The best that you can do is to completely cut off the plant’s root system and try propagating the plant. To prevent root decay, ensure that the soil drains quickly, and the pot has a good drainage system as well.

5. Pests

Some common pests that attack the Aglaonema Pictum Bicolor are spider mites, mealybugs, aphids, and scales. Regularly check your plant for any signs of these pests. Mist it with neem oil to prevent them from threatening your precious plant.

Outro

As you might have deduced, the Aglaonema Pictum Bicolor is easy to grow and cultivate. Just be patient, as it matures slowly but surely. With enough light, water, nutrients, humidity, and lots of love and care, your plant would surely flourish.

Frequently Asked Questions