What Is Pink Chinese Evergreen?
The Pink Chinese evergreen is the most popular form of a species that offers many excellent plant options including needle-like green foliage or attractive pink. The “The Pink” form’s brightly colored, oval-shaped leaves are an outstanding example of why Chamaecyparis has earned the reputation as one of the most unique ornamental plants available. Like other Chamaecyparis varieties, “The Pink” thrives in low-light conditions and is an excellent choice for a windowsill plant or light shade garden.
Pink Chinese evergreen Care & Maintenance
Pink Chinese evergreen plants are slow-growing, making them easy to care for. They can be trimmed at any time of the year, but it’s best to do so during the spring and summer months.
To prevent brown leaf tips and pliable needles, keep air moving through your plant by pruning regularly. The foliage will turn brown if the plant is kept too dry. This plant will tolerate a wide variety of soil conditions and prefers moist but well-draining soil when actively growing.
The Pink Chinese evergreen has few insect or disease problems, however, it can be susceptible to scale insects and mealybugs in the winter months so check for these pests regularly.
Pink Chinese evergreen Light Requirements
Pink Chinese evergreen plants will thrive in a shaded or partially shaded location as long as the soil drains well. Pink Chinese evergreens prefer full or partial sunlight when indoors.
water Requirements
Water your Pink Chinese evergreen when the top of the soil feels dry. when watering be sure to provide enough water to get the excess water out of the drainage area.
If you notice your plant becoming top-heavy from watering then consider reducing your watering schedule. Overwatering can cause root rot, so avoid wetting the plant’s leaves and roots.
Soil Requirements
Pink Chinese evergreen plants prefer well-draining soil. If you have heavy clay soil, mix in a generous amount of perlite or sand when planting your Pink Chinese evergreen. Add additional perlite as needed to keep the soil lightly moist while helping maintain good drainage properties for your plant’s roots.
Temperature and Humidity Requirements:
Temperature Requirements for Pink Chamaecyparis obtusa “The Pink” Plants: Full sun to partial shade with temperatures above 50 degrees and below 90 degrees Fahrenheit, it can tolerate temperatures that fall between 20 degrees – 100 degrees (F) but may lose needles if exposed to cold for an extended period of time. This native from China is known for its resilience to extreme weather conditions. This plant prefers moist soil which is known to be good for its health, so you should ensure that your soil stays moist at all times.
Pink Chinese evergreen Propagation
Chamaecyparis obtusa “The Pink” can be propagated by seed or division. Seeds should begin to germinate in one to two weeks with warm temperatures of 70 degrees Fahrenheit and higher.
Like other members of their genus, Chamaecyparis trees do not produce viable seeds until they reach a mature age which varies between 20-50 years. Division can be completed any time of the year as long as the plant is actively growing.
To propagate from cuttings, use semi-hardwood cuttings that are 4-5 inches long and remove any leaves on the bottom half-inch of the cutting except for leaf buds. Place your cuttings in a moist, loose rooting medium and keep out of direct sunlight.
Fertilizing Requirements:
Pink Chinese evergreen trees are slow-growing and do not require much fertilizer. A general-purpose, water-soluble fertilizer is recommended for use during the spring and summer months.
Pink Chinese Evergreen Care Tips
Repotting/Planting Instructions: Use good potting soil when repotting plants, this will ensure that your plant gets all of the nutrients that it needs to continue growing healthy. If you’re planting more than one tree in a container you should leave at least 18 inches between them.
Before watering your plant take some time to inspect its roots, remove any weeds or yellowing leaves then gently remove any soil from around the base of the trunk, being careful not to break off any roots.
Place your plant in the container and backfill with potting soil, spreading it evenly around the trunk. After your plant is positioned in its new container you should water it thoroughly.
Pink Chinese evergreen Pests & Diseases:
Pink Chinese evergreens are susceptible to mealy bugs, scales and aphids so be sure to inspect your plants regularly for any pests that appear.
You can use insecticidal soap or neem oil as a preventative measure against pest infestation or treat an outbreak immediately with products containing acephate (Orthene), carbaryl (Sevin), malathion, methoxychlor, pyrethrins, or lambda-cyhalothrin (Scimitar). Follow all product instructions carefully and wear protective clothing during application.
Pink Chinese evergreen Uses:
The Pink Chinese evergreens have a fresh, spicy fragrance and are highly valued in the bonsai industry for their small leaves that reduce undercutting and needle loss. They also work well as specimen or patio trees due to their low maintenance requirements and rugged nature (resistant to temperatures as low as -20 degrees F).
The Pink Chinese evergreen can also be used in the landscape as a low-growing hedge, wind barrier, or privacy screen.
Potting and repotting Requirements:
Pink Chinese evergreens should be repotted every three years in the spring when they begin to grow again. Remove any old, yellowing foliage and trim the roots before placing your tree into a new container filled with good potting soil.
Adding fertilizer will help your plant thrive while it adjusts to the transplant shock associated with being moved. Use a slow-release fertilizer or repeat applications of general-purpose liquids throughout its growing season..
Pest Problems and How To deal With Them
If you suddenly notice the leaves on your pink Chinese evergreen tree turning yellow you should check it for common problems such as spider mites and scale insects.
To deal with these pests, purchase an insecticidal soap or spray containing pyrethrin or another chemical that is listed for use against these types of insects. Be sure to carefully read all instructions before using any product because some chemicals will damage the leaves of plants if they are not applied correctly.
Common Diseases:
Pink Chinese evergreens are susceptible to needle discoloration caused by algae and fungi which can be treated with well-timed applications of general-purpose fungicides like Benlate, Daconil, and Nite Out.
How To Handle Pink Chinese Evergree n Pests And Diseases
The information provided in this article is not a substitute for professional advice. If you are having problems with your Chinese evergreen, please consult a licensed arborist or another qualified horticulturist for help.
When handling any chemicals, always follow the manufacturer’s safety directions carefully and wear the appropriate safety equipment. Never use pruning products during windy conditions or when temperatures exceed 90 degrees F – they can cause severe burns to tender bark and branches and can travel a great distance from their application site by wind gusts.
If you suspect that your plant has been infected by bacteria or fungi, quarantine it immediately by removing it from any area that might be susceptible to infection (an orchard, for instance). Do not place it in a garden area next to other plants until you are sure that the problem has been solved.
