Pothos plants, scientifically known as Epipremnum aureum, are popular houseplants admired for their lush foliage and trailing vines. Among the many cultivars, ‘Glacier’ and ‘N’Joy’ often cause confusion due to their similar appearances. Both varieties offer beautiful variegation, but distinguishing them can be challenging for the untrained eye.
Distinguishing Visual Features
Differentiating ‘Glacier’ and ‘N’Joy’ Pothos lies in their distinct leaf characteristics and variegation patterns. ‘Glacier’ Pothos typically features smaller, more rounded leaves with less pointed tips. Its variegation showcases a blend of green, white, and a noticeable silvery-grey or muted tone, often appearing as fragmented spots, streaks, or flecks that follow the leaf’s outline from the center outwards. The texture of ‘Glacier’ leaves can feel soft and velvety.
In contrast, ‘N’Joy’ Pothos generally has slightly larger, more ovate leaves with sharper tips. Its variegation is characterized by crisp, well-defined blocks of pure white or creamy white against a vibrant, darker green. The lines between the green and white areas are typically sharper, and the white sections usually lack the grey or silver undertones found in ‘Glacier’. ‘N’Joy’ leaves tend to have a waxier or leathery feel.
Growth Habits and Size
‘Glacier’ Pothos is generally considered a slower-growing variety. It tends to be more compact, with smaller leaves overall, making it suitable for desks or smaller spaces. Indoor ‘Glacier’ plants typically reach lengths of about 6 feet. ‘N’Joy’ Pothos exhibits a moderate to slower growth rate. It can develop longer vines, potentially reaching up to 10 feet indoors. Both cultivars naturally trail, making them excellent choices for hanging baskets or shelves, and can also be trained to climb with support.
Care Requirements Comparison
Both ‘Glacier’ and ‘N’Joy’ Pothos are low-maintenance plants, sharing many general care requirements. They thrive in bright, indirect light, which is important for maintaining their vibrant variegation. Insufficient light can lead to loss of variegation and leggy growth; direct sunlight can scorch their leaves. Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry completely between waterings to prevent root rot.
A well-draining potting mix, often with peat moss and perlite, is essential. Both plants prefer average household temperatures between 65°F and 85°F and appreciate moderate to higher humidity, though they are adaptable to typical indoor humidity levels. Fertilization can be applied monthly during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer, reduced or stopped in fall and winter.
Understanding Their Origins and Similarities
Confusion between ‘Glacier’ and ‘N’Joy’ Pothos stems from their shared botanical classification and development as variegated cultivars. ‘N’Joy’ Pothos originated as a naturally occurring mutation from the popular ‘Marble Queen’ Pothos, discovered in Florida around 2002. While ‘Glacier’ Pothos is also considered a cultivar of ‘Marble Queen’ Pothos, its exact origins are less documented, sometimes described as appearing to be from the Solomon Islands. The presence of green and white variegation in both, a result of genetic mutations affecting chlorophyll distribution, is the primary reason for their visual similarity and subsequent misidentification.
Choosing Between Glacier Pothos and N’Joy Pothos
Choosing between ‘Glacier’ and ‘N’Joy’ Pothos often comes down to subtle aesthetic preferences. If you prefer a variegation pattern that is more fragmented, with a cooler, muted palette including silvery-grey tones, ‘Glacier’ Pothos may be more appealing. Its slightly smaller, rounder leaves also contribute to a distinct visual. Conversely, if you are drawn to a starker contrast with crisp, well-defined blocks of pure white against deep green, ‘N’Joy’ Pothos offers that clear, bold appearance. Its slightly larger, more ovate leaves present a different texture and shape.