The Neon Pothos is a popular houseplant known for its bright, lime-green to yellow foliage. Owners may notice this unique coloration changing, often resulting in leaves that appear more green. This change is called “reversion,” where the plant’s characteristic color is lost, leading to a more common green appearance.
Understanding Pothos Reversion
Reversion in plants refers to a process where a cultivar, particularly one with unique coloration like the Neon Pothos, develops growth resembling an ancestral or more common form, resulting in a loss of its specialized color. The vivid neon color of the Neon Pothos is due to a genetic trait that results in a lower concentration of chlorophyll compared to standard green varieties. This makes the plant more sensitive to its environment.
Reversion can stem from genetic factors, where unstable mutations cause the plant to produce shoots that revert to the original, more stable green form. These reverted green sections often contain more chlorophyll, giving them a growth advantage. Environmental conditions can also influence this process, making the plant’s unique color less pronounced. While true genetic reversion is permanent, environmentally induced color changes might be reversible in new growth if conditions are optimized.
Causes of Neon Pothos Reversion
The primary reason a Neon Pothos loses its distinctive bright color and turns greener is insufficient light. The vibrant neon hue results from lower chlorophyll levels in the leaves. Chlorophyll is the green pigment responsible for photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert light into energy. When a Neon Pothos does not receive enough light, its cells produce more chlorophyll to compensate, attempting to maximize energy production. This increase in green pigment masks the plant’s inherent neon coloration, causing the leaves to appear a darker green.
The plant’s natural habitat is the forest understory, where it receives bright, indirect light. In a home environment, if placed in a spot that is too dim, the plant will prioritize survival by increasing chlorophyll production. While light is the most significant factor, general plant stress, such as improper watering or nutrient deficiencies, can also contribute to a duller appearance or overall decline in plant health. However, the shift from neon to green is predominantly a response to inadequate light levels.
Preventing Neon Pothos Reversion
Maintaining the vibrant neon color of your Pothos primarily involves providing optimal light conditions. Bright, indirect light is ideal for these plants, mimicking their natural environment beneath a tree canopy. Placing your Neon Pothos near an east-facing window or a few feet from a south or west-facing window, potentially with sheer curtains, can provide the necessary illumination without harsh, direct sun. Direct sunlight can scorch the delicate leaves and cause the color to fade.
Consistent light levels are important; a lack of sufficient light over time will cause the leaves to darken. If natural light is limited, grow lights can supplement the plant’s needs, helping to maintain its vibrant hue. Supporting overall plant health through proper watering and balanced fertilization also contributes to robust growth and color. Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root issues, and fertilize sparingly during the growing season.
Reversing Neon Pothos Reversion
Once a Neon Pothos leaf has turned green due to insufficient light, it generally will not revert to its original neon color. The increased chlorophyll production in those mature leaves is typically permanent. However, new growth can emerge with the desired neon coloration if the plant’s light conditions are optimized. To encourage new, brightly colored growth, adjust the plant’s light exposure to ensure it receives consistent bright, indirect light. Pruning off heavily reverted (green) sections of the plant can be beneficial, as this redirects the plant’s energy towards producing new foliage that will display the vibrant neon color under improved light conditions.