Pothos plants (Epipremnum aureum), often called Devil’s Ivy, are easy to care for and highly recommended for new plant owners. Their popularity stems from their trailing vines and attractive heart-shaped foliage. This tropical vine is forgiving of neglect and adaptable, making it a staple houseplant for busy individuals and those just starting their green journey.
Defining Pothos as a Forgiving Houseplant
The Pothos earns its reputation as a resilient houseplant because it can handle conditions that would quickly kill other indoor plants. This tropical species, native to the Solomon Islands, tolerates a wide variety of indoor environments, including fluctuations in humidity and light. It maintains its health even when watering is inconsistent, benefiting forgetful plant owners.
Pothos plants are naturally resistant to many common houseplant pests. While no plant is completely immune, they generally experience fewer issues with insects like spider mites or mealybugs compared to more sensitive varieties. The plant’s overall hardiness allows it to recover quickly from minor environmental stress, making it a highly adaptable and low-maintenance option.
Simple Care Requirements
Providing the Pothos with bright, indirect light helps maintain the vibrant variegation on its leaves. However, the plant is tolerant of lower light conditions, which is why it is often chosen for darker rooms and offices. Placing a Pothos in a spot with insufficient light will cause its growth to slow, and the white or yellow patterns on its leaves may begin to fade.
The most effective watering strategy is to allow the soil to dry out significantly between waterings. Water the plant thoroughly when the top 50% to 75% of the soil volume feels dry to the touch. This preference for drying out helps prevent the most common issue plant owners face. Pothos plants thrive in a standard, well-draining potting mix, and they prefer average indoor temperatures between 65°F and 85°F.
Avoiding Overwatering and Safety Concerns
Despite their tolerance for neglect, the biggest threat to a Pothos is consistent overwatering, which leads to root rot. The plant’s roots are susceptible to fungal diseases when kept in soggy soil, and this is typically the reason for plant failure. Signs of an overwatered Pothos include yellowing, soft leaves, mushy stems near the soil line, and a foul odor.
A safety consideration for Pothos ownership is the plant’s toxicity to humans and pets if ingested. All parts of the plant contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. Chewing the foliage releases these crystals, causing immediate pain, irritation, and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and digestive tract. For households with small children or pets, the Pothos should be displayed in a hanging basket or on a high shelf where it is inaccessible.