Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is a tropical vining plant known for its heart-shaped leaves and resilience indoors. This species has produced numerous cultivars, including the highly sought-after ‘Harlequin’ and ‘Manjula’ Pothos. Both varieties are prized for their intense, multi-toned foliage but are often confused due to their similar white-and-green patterns. Identifying the subtle differences in their physical characteristics is key to distinguishing these two cultivars.
Distinguishing Variegation Patterns
The most obvious difference lies in the quality and distribution of their non-green coloration. Harlequin Pothos features an exceptionally high level of variegation, defined by a stark, high-contrast blend of pure white and dark green. The white areas appear in large, distinct patches or speckles that are sharply delineated from the green base color. This cultivar is characterized by the sheer volume of pure white pigment present on the leaf surface.
In contrast, the Manjula Pothos displays a broader spectrum of colors, including shades of cream, off-white, and sometimes silvery-green hues. The creamy patches on a Manjula leaf are softer and more blended, lacking the crisp, pure-white contrast seen on the Harlequin. Manjula variegation often exhibits a distinct “painted” appearance, where lighter colors swirl and follow the natural contours of the leaf veins.
The transition between variegated and green sections on Manjula leaves is generally more gradual and mottled, creating a watercolor-like appearance. Harlequin leaves, conversely, exhibit a more fragmented and patchy pattern because the non-green sections are cleaner and more pronounced. Manjula leaves frequently feature speckles of light green or silver within the cream-colored areas, adding to the multi-toned effect, while the Harlequin is restricted to a striking green and white palette.
Differences in Leaf Shape and Texture
The physical structure of the leaves offers a reliable secondary method for distinguishing the two plants. Manjula Pothos leaves are characteristically broader and more rounded, often displaying a full, heart-like shape. A hallmark feature is the texture of its edges, which are noticeably wavy, ruffled, or gently undulating.
The Manjula leaf also tends to be slightly cupped or convex, giving the foliage a three-dimensional quality. This combination of a wider shape and a wavy margin contributes to the plant’s overall dense and compact visual profile. The leaves are typically firm and can grow moderately large on a mature plant.
The Harlequin Pothos maintains a more traditional Pothos leaf structure, which is generally flatter and more pointed at the tip. While still heart-shaped, the leaf is slightly narrower, resembling a classic teardrop shape compared to the Manjula’s broad form. The margins of the Harlequin leaves are typically flat and smooth, lacking the pronounced ruffling that defines the Manjula.
Identifying the absence of the characteristic wavy edge on the Harlequin is often a quicker and more consistent means of identification than relying solely on variegation color.
Contrasting Growth Habits
The manner in which these two cultivars develop shows a noticeable contrast in their growth habits. The Manjula Pothos has a slow to moderate growth rate, typical of highly variegated plants. This slower pace is coupled with the tendency to produce shorter internodes, which are the spaces between the leaves on the vine.
This compact spacing results in a denser, bushier appearance, causing the foliage to overlap and create a full, cascading effect. The Manjula prioritizes a tight, clustered structure over rapidly extending vines. It is ideal for smaller spaces where a dense mound of foliage is desired.
The Harlequin Pothos, despite its high variegation, can exhibit a more vigorous, trailing growth habit, though it is still slower than a standard Pothos. Its vines tend to lengthen more readily, similar to a standard Epipremnum aureum, rather than maintaining the short, dense internodes of the Manjula.
The high amount of white area on the Harlequin’s leaves, which contain no chlorophyll, slows its growth significantly. While both are slower growers than green relatives, the Manjula is structurally predisposed to a compact, dense form, while the Harlequin shows a greater propensity for extended vining.
Specific Care Requirements
Both Harlequin and Manjula Pothos are high-variegation cultivars, requiring specific conditions to maintain their striking coloration. They both need bright, indirect light for optimal health and to prevent the variegation from fading or reverting to solid green. The Harlequin, having larger areas of white tissue, may need slightly more intense, though still indirect, light than the Manjula to sustain its limited chlorophyll-producing areas.
Light Requirements
Adequate lighting is the most important factor for these cultivars. Insufficient light causes the plant to produce more green on new growth in an attempt to increase photosynthesis, leading to a loss of the desired variegation. Providing 8 to 10 hours of bright, indirect light daily helps ensure the retention of the unique white and cream patterns.
Watering and Fertilization
Both cultivars thrive in a well-draining soil mix that is allowed to dry out partially between waterings. Allow the top one or two inches of the potting medium to become dry before rehydrating thoroughly. Overwatering is the most frequent cause of issues, as the sensitive roots are prone to rot.
Due to their slower growth rates, these plants are light feeders and do not require frequent fertilization. Apply a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer once every four to six weeks during the spring and summer growing season. Reduce or stop fertilization entirely during the low-light winter months to prevent the accumulation of excess salts.