Aglaonema Companion Plants: 7 Best and 4 Worst

Steve_Yoder
Steve Yoder

I'm Steve, a 30-something urban gardener fascinated by companion planting research. Growing up surrounded by greenery sparked my passion for gardening early on. I enjoy transforming my small backyard, experimenting with companion planting techniques and eco-friendly practices. Sustainability matters—I advocate for native plants and composting.

The Best Companions for Aglaonema

Aglaonema

Ferns

Ferns are fantastic companions for Aglaonema due to their similar care requirements. Both thrive in low light and high humidity, making them perfect partners for indoor environments. Ferns also help maintain a moist microclimate around the Aglaonema, promoting lush growth.

  • How to Plant Together:
    1. Choose a spot with indirect light.
    2. Ensure the soil is well-draining yet retains moisture.
    3. Plant the Aglaonema and ferns with enough space to allow air circulation.
    4. Water regularly to maintain humidity.

Explore more about these companions in the Fern Companion Plants article.

Peace Lily

front yard daylily bed design

The Peace Lily is another excellent companion for Aglaonema, enhancing the aesthetic of your indoor garden with its striking white blooms. Both plants enjoy similar light and water requirements, making them easy to care for together.

  • Planting Instructions:
    1. Select an area with filtered light.
    2. Use a peat-based potting mix for both plants.
    3. Space them so each has room to spread.
    4. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

For more details, check out the Peace Lily Companion Plants guide.

Spider Plant

Spider Plants make excellent companions for Aglaonema, offering a contrast in texture while purifying the air around them. Both are low-maintenance, making them suitable for gardeners of all levels.

  • How to Grow Together:
    1. Position in a spot with indirect sunlight.
    2. Use a well-draining soil mix.
    3. Space them apart to avoid overcrowding.
    4. Water when the top inch of soil is dry.

Philodendron

Philodendrons are a great match for Aglaonema, with their heart-shaped leaves and vining nature providing a beautiful contrast to the Aglaonema’s broader leaves. Both prefer indirect light and similar watering schedules, making them easy to care for alongside each other.

  • Steps for Planting Together:
    1. Choose a location away from direct sunlight.
    2. Plant in a pot with drainage holes using a loamy, well-draining soil.
    3. Allow for some space between plants to ensure good air flow.
    4. Water when the soil feels dry to the touch.

For additional insights, visit Philodendron Companion Plants.

Pothos

Pothos, with its cascading vines and easy-care nature, pairs wonderfully with Aglaonema. Both can thrive even in low-light conditions and have similar humidity preferences, making them ideal for indoor settings.

  • Guide to Growing Together:
    1. Select an area with moderate to low light.
    2. Use a well-aerated, nutrient-rich potting mix.
    3. Space the plants to prevent crowding, allowing for air circulation.
    4. Water when the soil’s top layer becomes dry.

Dive deeper into pothos pairing in the Pothos Companion Plants guide.

ZZ Plant

The ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) is another low-maintenance companion that complements Aglaonema well. Its ability to tolerate neglect and low light conditions makes it a perfect match for the Aglaonema, creating a resilient duo in your indoor garden.

  • How to Co-Plant:
    1. Opt for an area with indirect light.
    2. Plant in fast-draining soil to prevent root rot.
    3. Space them sufficiently to avoid competition for resources.
    4. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Explore the benefits of this partnership at ZZ Plant Companion Plants.

Orchids

winter flowering indoor plants orchids

Orchids can be a stunning companion for Aglaonema, offering a splash of color while enjoying the same high humidity levels. Their differing textures and growth habits can complement each other beautifully in an indoor setting.

  • Planting Tips:
    1. Position both plants in a brightly lit area, away from direct sunlight.
    2. Use orchid-specific potting mix for the orchids and a well-draining mix for the Aglaonema.
    3. Ensure each plant has enough space to grow without competition.
    4. Water as needed, keeping humidity levels high.

For a deeper dive, read through Orchid Companion Plants.

Plants to Avoid Around Aglaonema

Cacti and Succulents

While cacti and succulents are attractive, their need for bright light and dry conditions clashes with Aglaonema’s preference for humidity and indirect light, making them incompatible companions.

Herbs

Choosing the Right Herb Garden Planter

Many herbs require more light and less humidity than Aglaonema, which can lead to competition and stress for both types of plants.

Vegetables

Vegetables often need more sunlight and different soil conditions than Aglaonema, making them unsuitable companions.

Fruit Trees

Fruit trees have vastly different growth requirements, including light, water, and soil, which do not align with those of Aglaonema, potentially harming both plants if grown too closely.

Companion Planting Chart for Aglaonema

Good CompanionsWhy They’re Great Together
FernsSimilar care requirements; enhance humidity.
Peace LilySimilar light/water needs; aesthetic appeal.
Spider PlantAir purification; contrasting textures.
PhilodendronSimilar care needs; contrasting shapes.
PothosLow light compatibility; easy care.
ZZ PlantDrought tolerance; low light compatibility.
OrchidsHigh humidity preference; aesthetic contrast.

Remember, choosing the right companions for your Aglaonema not only enhances your garden’s beauty but also promotes a healthier, more sustainable growing environment. Experiment with these companions and observe how they can transform your gardening experience.