The Aglaonema ‘Super White’, a hybrid cultivar in the Araceae family, is known for its predominantly white leaves with dark green mottling along the edges. This cultivar is commonly referred to as Chinese Evergreen.

As an imported plant, it is not widely available at nurseries and is usually found at outlets that specialise in exotic varieties. The plant can also be ordered from online plant sellers, including those based in other cities. When purchased online, the Super White arrives in a plastic pot, with leaves wrapped in newspapers. The plant does not require immediate repotting or transfer to a larger container or open space.

Initially, place the plant near other plants to help it acclimatise to its new environment. It should also be watered thoroughly until water runs freely from the drainage hole. As a slow growing plant, it requires minimal care. New leaves typically emerge in between four to eight weeks, during which time the roots gradually establish themselves within the pot.

Once the roots start to emerge from the drainage hole of the pot, it is time to repot the plant into a larger container. Depending on the age of the plant at the time of purchase, repotting may be required after one to three years.

Not all houseplants want constant attention. But when it needs to be repotted, the Super White likes a careful hand…

When preparing the space for transplanting the Super White, gardeners must be mindful of a few things. Do not use nursery soil, as it starts to compact with time, which can hinder root growth and plant development. A better option is to use a potting mix that provides an airy texture — with good tilth, looseness and adequate aeration.

For an economical option, materials such as perlite, coco coir or coconut husk can be handy and are also easily available at seed stores and online. These materials can be used on their own or mixed with nursery soil. Their combination can provide enough aeration and water drainage to support the roots of the newly shifted plant.

The plant should be carefully removed from the pot, after watering it beforehand, to ensure that the soil along with the roots remain clumped and intact. It is easier to remove the plant when the pot is plastic. In the case of a clay pot, do the following. First, gently tap the outer wall of the pot. Then, invert the pot while supporting the plant and soil surface with your palm.

While inverted, use your thumb to gently loosen the soil emerging from the pot’s drainage hole. As the plant slides out from the rim of the pot, still inverted and balanced on the palm, overturn it and place it carefully into the prepared space. After putting the plant in its permanent place, fill the space and cover it with a fine layer of compost. Insert a small wooden stick with the plant for vertical support.

Sometimes, the content of the pot does not slide out easily. In such a case, break the pot from the outside to get the content. This can be done by carefully cracking the pot using a tool such as a small spade or hammer.

Once the Super White has been transplanted, water thoroughly until excess drains from the pot. The newly prepared pot should be kept away from sources of extreme heat. It should be away from direct sunlight exposure as well. The plant should be placed in bright light and in places with better humidity. Soon, the Super White will start thriving and its striking foliage will add character to your garden or indoor space.

Please send your queries and emails to doctree101@hotmail.com. The writer is a physician and a host for the YouTube channel ‘DocTree Gardening’ promoting organic kitchen gardening

Published in Dawn, EOS, May 10th, 2026