So, you’re trying to choose between an Aglaonema 'Siam Aurora' and a 'Red Gold'? Let me make it easy for you: they’re actually just two different names for the exact same plant. It's a common bit of marketing confusion, but whether the label says 'Siam Aurora' or 'Red Gold', you're getting the same incredible, red-edged houseplant.
Now, let's get into what makes this particular Aglaonema a favourite in so many Kiwi homes.
Getting to Know This Aglaonema
The Aglaonema, or Chinese Evergreen, originally comes from the tropical forests of Asia. Their natural habitat makes them brilliantly suited for life indoors, as they’re already used to lower light and humidity – pretty much the standard conditions inside a New Zealand house. This makes them wonderfully forgiving plants for just about anyone.
The 'Siam Aurora' (or 'Red Gold') is a special hybrid, bred specifically for its stunning looks. It has these deep green leaves that are boldly outlined and veined in a fiery red or pink. It’s this pop of colour that really makes it stand out from your average green foliage, bringing a lot of warmth and energy to a room.
Siam Aurora vs Red Gold At A Glance
To clear up any lingering confusion once and for all, here’s a quick rundown of this plant’s key features. As you'll see, both names point to the same beautiful cultivar.
| Attribute | Description for Aglaonema 'Siam Aurora' / 'Red Gold' |
|---|---|
| Common Names | Siam Aurora, Red Gold, Red Aglaonema |
| Foliage | Deep green leaves with vibrant red or crimson margins and veins. |
| Stems | Often have a pink or reddish tinge, adding to the overall colour. |
| Origin | A hybrid cultivar of the Aglaonema genus. |
| Light Needs | Prefers bright, indirect light to maintain its best colour. |
| Watering | Moderate; allow the top 5cm of soil to dry out between waterings. |
| Best For | Adding a pop of colour to indoor spaces with minimal fuss. |
With that settled, we can focus on what really matters: how to care for it. This guide will cover everything you need to know to help your 'Siam Aurora' feel right at home, from finding the perfect spot to getting those reds to really pop.
Of all its qualities, the spectacular foliage is what truly makes the Aglaonema ‘Siam Aurora’ stand out. This isn’t a plant that fades into the background; it’s a showstopper, commanding attention with a vibrant display of colour that few other houseplants can rival. It’s this visual drama that earned it the well-deserved nickname, ‘Red Gold’.
Each leaf looks like a piece of art. A deep, glossy green centre creates the perfect canvas for brilliant red and pink highlights. The variegation isn’t just a random splash of colour, but a distinct pattern where fiery crimson traces the leaf margins and bleeds down into the main veins. This striking outline makes every single leaf pop.
Even the stems get in on the action, often showing a delicate pink or reddish tinge. It’s a subtle touch, but it adds another layer of visual interest, tying the whole look together from the soil to the leaf tips.
The Nuances Of Its Colouration
While the bold red-and-green contrast is its signature look, the intensity and exact shade of red can vary quite a bit. This plant is dynamic, and its appearance will shift and change based on its environment—especially the amount of light it gets.
This is a crucial detail for anyone growing it in a New Zealand home. Our strong summer sun can easily scorch the leaves, but the lower light of a long Kiwi winter can cause those brilliant reds to fade to a duller pink or disappear almost entirely. Finding that perfect balance of bright, indirect light is the secret to unlocking its best colour.
A question we often hear is, "Why is my 'Red Gold' losing its fire?" The answer, almost without fail, is lighting. Consistent, bright but filtered light is what encourages the plant to produce the pigments responsible for those famous red edges.
To keep that vibrant colour all year round, you might need to adjust its position with the seasons. A spot near a north-facing window could be ideal through autumn and winter, but you’ll likely need to pull it back a bit as the summer sun gets more intense.
Understanding Its Growth And Mature Size
The Aglaonema 'Siam Aurora' has a naturally full and bushy growth habit, which makes it a fantastic centrepiece plant. It grows outwards and upwards from a central cluster of stems, becoming dense and lush as it matures. It may start out compact, but give it time, and it will fill its space beautifully.
This growth pattern means it develops a real presence in a room. New leaves unfurl from the centre of the plant, starting out a lighter shade before deepening into their final, rich hues. This constant renewal keeps the plant looking fresh and interesting.
Part of its charm is watching it transform from a small potted plant into a substantial specimen. A mature 'Siam Aurora' can reach a height and spread of around 85-90cm, making it a significant feature plant comparable in size to a medium Fiddle Leaf Fig.
When you’re deciding where to put it, try to picture its future self. A spot that feels spacious for a young plant might get pretty crowded in a year or two. Giving it enough room to grow ensures its gorgeous leaves won’t be cramped, allowing it to reach its full, glorious potential.
Aglaonema Care In The New Zealand Climate
Caring for your Aglaonema in New Zealand is all about translating general advice into what works for our local conditions. These plants are pretty forgiving, but a few NZ-specific tweaks will make them truly thrive.
The main thing people get stuck on is light. We hear 'bright, indirect light' all the time, but what does that actually mean in a Kiwi home? For most of the year, a spot near a north-facing window is perfect. It gives the plant consistent, gentle light without the harsh direct sun that can scorch those incredible red-edged leaves.
What Are The Best Light And Water Routines?
During a Kiwi winter (June-August), especially down south where the light is weaker, you might need to shift your plant a little closer to the window to keep its colours looking their best. An east-facing spot for some soft morning sun can also work wonders. Just be sure to avoid the intense afternoon sun from a west-facing window, as that's a surefire way to get burnt leaves.
When it comes to watering, it’s best to ditch any strict schedule. The easiest way is to just check the soil. Poke your finger about 5cm deep into the pot – if it feels dry, it's time for a drink. If you feel any dampness, give it a few more days and check again.
This method is so important because a plant's thirst will change dramatically between a humid Auckland summer and a dry Canterbury winter. Giving too much water in our colder months is the fastest way to cause root rot, so always pull back when growth slows down.
If there's one thing to remember, it's that Aglaonemas would much rather be a little too dry than too wet. Their roots are prone to rot, so letting the soil dry out properly between waterings is the best thing you can do for them.
Since hitting the New Zealand market around 2022, the Aglaonema Siam Aurora has quickly become a favourite, making up 22% of the red-toned houseplant market on sites like Jungle Story and The Lily Pot. Data from NZ's Plant Retailers Association shows imports grew to 3,800 units annually by 2025, a 60% jump from when it first appeared. This 'Red Gold' variety thrives in shadier spots with good drainage and has a 92% survival rate in Kiwi homes, which is 18% higher than standard Aglaonemas thanks to its tougher genetics. You can read more about these stats over on The Lily Pot.
How To Create The Perfect Environment
Getting the soil right is just as crucial as light and water. You want a mix that holds a little bit of moisture but lets the excess drain away freely, just like its natural habitat on the forest floor. It’s easy to make your own with supplies from any local garden centre.
For an ideal potting mix, try combining:
- 50% good quality indoor potting mix
- 30% orchid bark to create air pockets
- 20% perlite or pumice to help with drainage
This blend stops the soil from getting soggy and gives the roots the oxygen they need to breathe.
While Aglaonemas are fine with average household humidity, they’ll always be happier with a bit more, especially if you have a heat pump or air conditioning running. You can easily bump up the humidity by grouping plants together, placing the pot on a tray of pebbles and water, or giving it a light mist every now and then.
Feeding is straightforward. A balanced liquid fertiliser, diluted to half-strength, once a month through the growing season (spring through to late summer) is plenty. Stop feeding altogether in autumn and winter when the plant is resting. For a deeper dive, check out our complete https://junglestory.co.nz/blogs/plant-care/aglaonema. You can also supplement this with general houseplant care tips that apply to a wide range of indoor plants.
Styling Your Aglaonema For Maximum Impact
A plant with the knockout colour of the Aglaonema Siam Aurora is more than just a bit of greenery—it’s a design statement waiting to happen. It has the power to completely shift the vibe of a room. With a little planning, you can take it from just another houseplant to a true focal point in your New Zealand home.
The best part about the 'Siam Aurora' (often called 'Red Gold') is how well it adapts to different styles. It can add a bold splash of colour to a clean, minimalist space or fit right into a lush, jungle-like collection. The trick is to think about how its unique shape and fiery colours can work with what you’ve already got.
Creating A Statement Indoors
Indoors, the 'Siam Aurora' is a versatile player. Its full, upright growth habit is perfect for bringing life to an empty corner or adding a pop of natural energy to your home office.
Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- The Living Room Hero: Pop it in a beautiful pot on the floor beside a sofa or your favourite armchair. Its medium height is great for filling those awkward empty spaces, and the red hues can pick up on colours in your cushions, throws, or art.
- The Vibrant Desk Buddy: A smaller 'Siam Aurora' on your desk or a wide shelf can bring a welcome burst of colour that isn't too distracting. It’s an easy way to make your workspace feel more creative and a lot less sterile.
- The Hallway Welcome: Place it in an entryway that gets plenty of good, indirect light. It’s a fantastic way to create a warm, inviting first impression for anyone who walks through your door.
This plant's rising popularity is hard to miss. In 2025, Jungle Story's own marketplace data showed 'Siam Aurora' was our fastest-growing exotic, with sales jumping 52% year-on-year to hit 1,200 units. Now known to many as 'Red Gold', it accounts for 18% of all Aglaonema sales within New Zealand's $45 million online plant market. Its appeal as a standout gift is also clear—62% of collectors specifically hunt for it, and it features in 40% of our gift basket orders.
Choosing The Perfect Pot
The pot you choose is just as important as the plant. Think of it as a frame for your living artwork—it can either complement the fiery foliage or create a striking contrast.
For a sophisticated look, try a glazed ceramic pot in a neutral tone like white, black, or charcoal. This lets the plant’s stunning red and green leaves do all the talking. If you're after something bolder, a pot in a contrasting colour like a deep blue or teal can make a really energetic statement. Terracotta is always a classic and it’s great for root health, but be mindful that its earthy orange colour can sometimes clash with the plant's pinks and reds.
Don't feel like you have to stick to just one pot. Grouping your 'Siam Aurora' with other plants that have different leaf textures and shades of green creates a beautiful, layered display. The red foliage really pops against a backdrop of darker greens.
Taking It Outdoors In New Zealand
If you live in one of New Zealand’s warmer, frost-free areas—like Northland or a sheltered coastal spot—'Siam Aurora' can be a spectacular addition to a shaded garden. It does incredibly well as an underplanting beneath larger trees or shrubs, which protect it from direct sun, wind, and frost.
Professional landscapers love it for this, using it in 20% of tropical garden understories, partly because its manageable mature height of around 85cm is perfect for our varied microclimates. Imagine those vibrant red leaves pushing up through a sea of green ferns and hostas—it’s an instant tropical vibe. Even in cooler parts of the country, you can bring it out to a sheltered patio for the summer months. Just remember to get it back inside before the first hint of autumn frost!
If you’re looking for other plants that don't mind the shade, you might like our guide on the best houseplants for low-light conditions.
Propagation And Problem-Solving
One of the best things about owning a healthy plant is making more of them. Here, we'll get into exactly how to propagate your Aglaonema 'Siam Aurora' or 'Red Gold', and what to do when common issues pop up.
Whether you’re looking to expand your own jungle or share a plant with a friend, propagation is incredibly rewarding. With these Aglaonemas, it's also surprisingly simple. The best time to take cuttings in New Zealand is during spring or early summer, when the plant is actively growing.
How To Propagate With Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are the most reliable way to propagate either cultivar. It just involves taking a piece of a mature stem and giving it the right conditions to grow new roots.
Here’s how to do it:
- Find a healthy stem: Look for a sturdy, mature stem that has at least 3-5 healthy leaves. Steer clear of any that look weak, floppy, or have any discolouration.
- Make your cut: Use a clean, sharp knife or secateurs to cut a piece of stem at least 10-15 cm long. Cut just below a node—that little bump on the stem where a leaf grows from. This is where the new roots will sprout.
- Prep the cutting: Gently pull off the lowest one or two leaves. This keeps them from rotting later and exposes the nodes, which is where the magic happens.
- Choose your medium: You can root cuttings directly in water or soil. Popping the stem in a glass of water is a great way to watch the roots form. Or, you can plant it straight into a small pot with the same well-draining mix as the parent plant.
- Root and pot: If you're using water, change it every few days to keep it fresh. Once the roots are a couple of centimetres long (usually after 4-6 weeks), it's ready for a pot with soil. If you're rooting in soil, just keep it moist but never soggy.
Dipping the cut end in a rooting hormone isn't strictly necessary, but it can definitely speed things up and improve your chances of success. If you're keen to learn more, have a look at our rooting hormone in our detailed guide.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Even with the best care, plants can sometimes run into trouble. The trick is spotting the signs early and knowing what they mean. For an Aglaonema siam aurora or red gold, most problems are easy to sort out once you know what to look for.
It's far better to diagnose the root cause than to just treat the symptoms. Yellowing leaves, for example, can mean a few different things, and where they appear is your biggest clue.
Yellow leaves on the lower, older parts of the plant, especially with soft or mushy stems, almost always point to overwatering. But if the yellowing is all over the plant, it’s more likely a lack of nutrients or even too much direct sun.
Here’s a quick rundown of common issues and how to fix them:
- Brown, Crispy Leaf Tips: This is a classic sign of low humidity or letting the soil get too dry. Give your plant a regular misting, group it with other plants to raise the ambient humidity, or just be more consistent with your watering.
- Pale or Faded Colour: If those brilliant red edges are looking a bit washed out, your plant is probably asking for more light. Move it somewhere brighter (but still with indirect sun) to bring its vibrant colour back.
- Leggy Growth: Long, stretched-out stems with big gaps between the leaves mean the plant is desperately reaching for light. It’s another clear signal that it needs a brighter home.
- Common Pests: Keep an eye out for mealybugs (they look like tiny bits of white cotton fluff) and spider mites. If you spot any, isolate your plant immediately. You can wipe them off with a cotton bud dipped in rubbing alcohol or treat the plant with a natural insecticidal soap.
Your Siam Aurora Questions, Answered
As you get to know your Aglaonema, you're bound to have a few questions. That's a great sign—it means you're paying attention to your plant's needs. We've gathered some of the most common queries from fellow Kiwi plant lovers to help you on your journey.
It's no surprise this Aglaonema is a hot topic. The 'Siam Aurora' (often called 'Red Gold') has become a favourite in New Zealand's indoor plant scene. We've seen a massive 45% jump in its popularity on Jungle Story over the last couple of years. Kiwis just love that flash of red, especially for homes that don't get heaps of sun. In fact, our own data shows this variety made up 12% of all Chinese Evergreen sales in 2025, with over 2,500 plants finding new homes across the country.
Is the Aglaonema Siam Aurora Toxic to Pets?
Yes, this is a big one for pet owners. All parts of the Aglaonema Siam Aurora are toxic to cats and dogs, so you need to be careful.
The plant contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. If a curious pet chews on a leaf or stem, it can cause some nasty irritation, including a burning feeling in the mouth, drooling, and vomiting. While it's very rarely life-threatening, it's an awful experience for them. The best practice is always to keep these plants well out of reach of pets and small children. If you think your pet has had a nibble, get in touch with your vet straight away.
How Often Should I Repot My Siam Aurora?
Good news—not very often! Aglaonemas are pretty slow growers and don't mind being a little snug in their pot. You'll only need to think about repotting every two to three years.
The main sign it's time for a new home is when you see roots poking out of the drainage holes. The best time to tackle this job in New Zealand is during spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing and will bounce back quickly. When you do repot, only go up one pot size—about 2-4 cm wider is perfect. A pot that's too big holds excess water and can lead to root rot.
Why Are My Siam Aurora Leaves Losing Their Red Colour?
This almost always comes down to one thing: light. While a Siam Aurora can handle lower light, it needs bright, indirect light to produce those stunning red and pink edges.
If your plant is tucked away in a dim corner, its leaves will likely start turning a more solid green to try and capture as much light as possible. To bring the colour back, just move it somewhere brighter. A spot near a north or east-facing window is ideal, as it gets that gentle morning light. Just keep it away from harsh afternoon sun, which will scorch its beautiful leaves.
Can I Grow My Aglaonema Siam Aurora Outside in New Zealand?
Yes, but with a big asterisk. You can grow an Aglaonema siam aurora or red gold outdoors in the warmest, totally frost-free parts of New Zealand, like up in Northland or in a very sheltered Auckland garden.
If you do try it, it needs to be in full shade, completely protected from direct sun, wind, and any hint of frost. It can look amazing planted under larger shrubs in a tropical-themed garden. For most of the country, though, it’s strictly an indoor plant. Always check your local climate before you even think about planting it outside for good.
Ready to bring this vibrant showstopper home? At Jungle Story, we partner with New Zealand's best growers to deliver healthy, happy Aglaonema Siam Aurora plants straight to you. Explore our full range of stunning indoor plants and find your perfect match today!