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 A
genus of about 20 species of perennial subshru bs from the humid
tropics of Southeast Asia, In growth form they are the old world
counterparts of the tropical American Dieffenbachia and can be used
for indoor decoration in a similar way. Some species are renowned
for their tenacious hold on life and ability to grow in conditions
of poor light and soil.
The somewhat fleshy stems branch from the base and may root where
they touch the ground.
The broad, oblong leaves are often mottled or barred with cream.
Tiny flowers are borne in a short fleshy spike within a furled
spathe, an arrangement typical of the arum family. The spikes are
more conspicuous in the fruiting stage, displaying oval berries that
can be quite colorful
Cultivation: In the tropics aglaonemas are easily grown in any moist
shady area beneath trees but in temperate regions they are grown
indoors in containers. Propagation is normally by cuttings or
offsets, which are easily rooted. |
