The Epipremnum amplissimum ‘Silver’ is a houseplant known for its unique appearance. Often called Silver Streak Pothos or Silver Stripe Pothos, this plant features elongated, lance-shaped leaves with distinct silvery or bluish-green variegation. Its metallic stripes distinguish it from other pothos varieties.
Understanding Epi Amplissimum Silver
Epipremnum amplissimum belongs to the Araceae family, related to Pothos. It is native to tropical rainforests of Southeast Asia and Northern Australia, including the Bismarck Archipelago and Papua New Guinea. In its natural habitat, it vines and climbs to reach filtered sunlight.
The name “Epipremnum” means “upon the stem,” referring to its climbing nature. “Amplissimum” signifies “most abundant” or “very large,” hinting at its potential size. Unlike other Epipremnum varieties that develop splits or fenestrations, Epipremnum amplissimum ‘Silver’ maintains its lance-shaped leaves. These leaves can exceed 12 inches (30 centimeters) and broaden with age, displaying silvery markings most prominently when young.
Caring for Epi Amplissimum Silver
Light
Epipremnum amplissimum ‘Silver’ thrives in bright, indirect light, similar to its native filtered sunlight. Place the plant a few feet from a bright window, like an east-facing one, for gentle morning light. While it tolerates lower light, insufficient light slows growth, reduces silver variegation, and causes leggy growth. Avoid direct, harsh sunlight; it scorches leaves and diminishes stripe vibrancy.
Water
Watering is important for Epipremnum amplissimum ‘Silver’, which is sensitive to overwatering and underwatering. Water thoroughly when the top 1-2 inches (2-5 cm) of soil feel dry. Allow excess water to drain completely from the pot’s drainage holes. Overwatering causes yellowing leaves and root rot. Consistent underwatering results in drooping or browning leaves.
Humidity and Temperature
This tropical plant thrives in warm, humid environments, with temperatures from 18°C to 29°C (64°F to 84°F). It prefers moderate to high humidity (50-60%) to maintain vibrant foliage and prevent browning leaf edges. While it tolerates average household humidity, increasing it with a humidifier, grouping plants, or a pebble tray is beneficial. Protect the plant from cold drafts or temperatures below 12°C (54°F).
Soil and Potting
A well-draining, airy potting mix prevents waterlogging and allows roots to breathe. A good mix includes tropical potting soil, perlite, pumice, lava rocks, or orchid bark for aeration and drainage. This plant prefers to be slightly pot-bound. Repot every 2-3 years, or when roots emerge from drainage holes, growth slows, or soil compacts. When repotting, select a container with drainage holes that is only slightly larger.
Fertilizing
Epipremnum amplissimum ‘Silver’ is not a heavy feeder; a “less is more” approach to fertilization is best. During its active growing season (spring through early fall), apply a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4-6 weeks. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it causes salt accumulation in the soil. Reduce or stop fertilization completely during winter when growth slows.
Propagating Epi Amplissimum Silver
Propagating Epipremnum amplissimum ‘Silver’ is done through stem cuttings. Select a healthy, mature vine section 4-6 inches long with at least two or three leaves and one or two nodes. Nodes are small bumps where leaves emerge and new roots develop. Use clean, sharp shears to cut just below a node. Remove any leaves that would be submerged or buried.
Cuttings root in water or moist, well-draining potting mix. For water propagation, place the cutting in water, ensuring at least one node is submerged. Change the water every 3-4 days. Roots appear within 1-2 weeks and are ready for soil when 2-3 inches long. If rooting in soil, insert the cut end into moist potting mix, burying at least one node, and maintain consistent moisture until roots establish.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Yellowing Leaves
Yellowing leaves on Epipremnum amplissimum ‘Silver’ often indicate overwatering. Consistently wet soil suffocates roots and causes rot, leading to yellowing. Prolonged underwatering also causes leaves to yellow and droop. Nutrient deficiencies or excessive fertilizer contribute to yellowing foliage.
Browning Leaves
Browning leaf tips or edges on Epipremnum amplissimum ‘Silver’ indicate environmental stressors. Low humidity is a cause; the plant prefers a moist environment. Increase humidity with humidifiers or pebble trays. Consistent underwatering also leads to dry, brown leaf tips and edges. Fertilizer burn from too much fertilizer or salt buildup also causes browning.
Pests
Epipremnum amplissimum ‘Silver’ can be affected by common houseplant pests. Spider mites appear as tiny specks on leaf undersides. Mealybugs are white, cottony clusters in leaf joints and on stems. Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects. Inspect foliage regularly. Treat infestations by wiping leaves with a damp cloth, applying insecticidal soap, or using neem oil.