While no plant is officially named “Pink Pothos,” certain Epipremnum aureum varieties, commonly known as Pothos, can develop beautiful rosy or peachy tones. These popular vining houseplants are known for their relatively easy care. Their unique coloration makes them a sought-after addition to indoor plant collections.
Understanding Pink Pothos Varieties
The term “pink pothos” refers to specific Epipremnum aureum cultivars that exhibit pink, rosy, or peachy hues in their variegation, often under particular environmental conditions. These pink tones are not a solid color but appear as splashes, streaks, or edges within the white, cream, or green sections of the leaves. Unlike plants such as Philodendron Pink Princess, Pothos do not display vibrant, solid pink coloration.
Several Pothos varieties can display these attractive pink shades. ‘Manjula’ Pothos, with its broad, heart-shaped leaves, can develop subtle pink or peachy blushes, especially on new growth or in higher light. ‘Pearls and Jade’ Pothos might show hints of pink along the edges of its white sections. ‘N’Joy’ Pothos can also exhibit a delicate pink flush under optimal lighting. Even ‘Marble Queen’ Pothos can occasionally surprise with pinkish tints in very bright, indirect light. ‘Global Green’ Pothos, while primarily green, may sometimes show pink edges as a response to intense light.
Essential Care for Pink Pothos
To encourage and maintain pink coloration, provide bright, indirect light. This is necessary for the plant to express its full range of colors and variegation. Place your plant near an east or north-facing window, or a few feet back from a west or south-facing window with a sheer curtain, to provide adequate illumination. Too little light can cause the plant to lose its pink tones and revert to a more uniform green. Conversely, direct, intense sunlight can scorch the leaves, especially lighter variegated areas.
Water Pothos carefully, allowing the top 1 to 2 inches of soil to dry out between waterings. Pothos prefer consistently moist but not waterlogged conditions, as they are susceptible to root rot if left in soggy soil. The frequency of watering will vary, so check soil moisture regularly; slightly drooping leaves indicate a need for water.
Use a well-draining potting mix, often composed of ingredients like peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite, to ensure good aeration and moisture retention. This type of mix prevents water from sitting around the roots, which helps avoid root rot and promotes healthy growth.
Pothos thrive in average household temperatures, ideally between 65°F and 85°F (18°C to 29°C). Protect them from cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations, which can stress the plant. While Pothos adapt to typical indoor humidity, they appreciate higher levels, especially between 40-60%. You can increase humidity by grouping plants, using a pebble tray, or occasionally misting the leaves.
Fertilizing supports healthy growth and vibrant foliage, including the expression of pink tones. During the active growing season in spring and summer, apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks, or monthly. Dilute the fertilizer to half strength to prevent over-fertilization, which can lead to salt buildup and browning leaf tips. Reduce or stop fertilizing entirely during fall and winter when growth naturally slows.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Loss of pink coloration often occurs when the plant is not receiving sufficient bright, indirect light. If the pink variegation begins to fade, move the plant to a brighter location, such as closer to a window. If natural light is limited, supplementing with a grow light can also encourage more vibrant colors.
Yellowing leaves can signal several issues. Overwatering is a frequent cause, leading to yellow, mushy leaves and potential root rot. Underwatering can also cause leaves to yellow, often accompanied by wilting and curling. Insufficient light or nutrient deficiencies can also contribute to yellowing foliage. Adjusting your watering schedule and ensuring proper light exposure are key steps to address these problems.
Browning leaf tips or edges indicate low humidity or inconsistent watering. Increasing the humidity around the plant through misting or using a pebble tray can help. Ensuring a consistent watering routine, where the soil is allowed to dry out slightly but not completely between waterings, can also prevent browning. Exposure to excessive direct sunlight or high temperatures can also cause brown spots or edges on leaves.
Leggy growth, characterized by long stems with sparse leaves, indicates the plant is stretching for more light. This can be resolved by moving the plant to a brighter spot with indirect light. Regular pruning encourages bushier growth by stimulating new shoots from the cut points. Pruned cuttings can be propagated to create new plants, which can be added back to the pot for a fuller appearance.
Pothos plants are generally resistant to pests, but they can occasionally encounter common houseplant pests like spider mites, mealybugs, aphids, thrips, scale, and fungus gnats. These pests feed on plant sap, leading to symptoms like yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or webbing. Inspect your plant regularly and promptly address any infestations with appropriate treatments, such as insecticidal soap or neem oil.