The Giant Hawaiian Pothos is a highly sought-after houseplant, celebrated for its striking appearance and relatively straightforward care. Its lush, vibrant foliage brings a touch of tropical elegance to any indoor space. This vining plant offers an appealing aesthetic, whether allowed to trail gracefully or trained to climb. Its adaptability contributes to its widespread appeal, making it a rewarding addition to many indoor plant collections.
Distinctive Characteristics
The Giant Hawaiian Pothos, a cultivar of Epipremnum aureum, distinguishes itself from other Pothos varieties through its impressive leaf size and growth habit. Under optimal conditions, its leaves can exceed 2.5 feet, a notable increase compared to the 4 to 8-inch leaves of common Golden Pothos. These large leaves often develop prominent fenestrations, or natural splits, as the plant matures. This vining plant exhibits vigorous growth, trailing from hanging baskets or climbing upwards with support. The “Hawaiian” name references its tropical origins, where it thrives by climbing trees. While similar to Golden Pothos, it often displays lighter, creamier yellow variegation, sometimes appearing white, which can darken with increased light. Its leaves are also typically more rounded at the tips and maintain vibrant coloration as they age.
Giant Hawaiian Pothos Care
Light
Giant Hawaiian Pothos thrives in bright, indirect light. Placing it near an east-facing window or in a south-facing room away from direct sun is ideal. While it tolerates lower light, its distinctive variegation is most pronounced with moderate to bright indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch leaves and cause bleached or yellowed patches.
Watering
Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry completely before watering. Overwatering leads to soggy soil and root rot, a common issue for Pothos. Drooping leaves signal thirst, while yellowing leaves can indicate overwatering. Water thoroughly until it drains from the pot’s bottom, and remove any standing water from the saucer.
Soil and Nutrients
A well-draining potting mix is essential to prevent waterlogging and promote healthy root development. A suitable mix includes potting soil combined with amendments like perlite, orchid bark, peat moss, or coco coir for enhanced drainage and aeration. Fertilize with a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks during spring and summer. Reduce or stop fertilization in fall and winter when plant growth naturally slows.
Temperature and Humidity
Giant Hawaiian Pothos prefers average to warm indoor temperatures, ideally 60°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C). Avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations. While Pothos tolerates average household humidity, increased humidity significantly benefits larger leaf development. Misting, using a humidity tray, or a humidifier can create a more tropical environment.
Support and Training
Providing adequate support is highly recommended for this vigorous vining and climbing plant. Training it to climb a moss pole or trellis encourages larger, more mature leaves, including fenestrations. The plant’s aerial roots will attach to these supports. Regularly guiding the vines helps maintain vertical growth and promotes the desired mature leaf form.
Propagation
Propagate Giant Hawaiian Pothos through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem with at least two or three leaves and cut just below a leaf node. Remove bottom leaves to expose the node. Cuttings can root in water or a well-draining soil mix. For water rooting, submerge the node in a clear jar, changing water every few days to prevent stagnation. For soil propagation, plant the cutting with the node buried in a moist, airy potting mix. Place cuttings in a warm spot with bright, indirect light. Roots typically develop within a few weeks to a month, after which the new plant can be potted or transplanted.
Common Issues and Solutions
Giant Hawaiian Pothos can encounter several common problems. Yellowing leaves often signal improper watering; overwatering is a primary cause due to root rot from soggy soil. If leaves are yellow and soft, allow the soil to dry more thoroughly between waterings. Conversely, dry, crispy yellow leaves indicate underwatering. Browning leaf tips often point to low humidity or inconsistent watering. Increasing ambient humidity through misting or a pebble tray can help alleviate this. Stunted growth or a lack of vibrant variegation may suggest insufficient light; move the plant to a brighter, indirect location. Pest infestations (spider mites, mealybugs, aphids, thrips) can occur. Inspect the plant’s leaves and stems regularly for early detection. Minor infestations can be managed by wiping leaves with a damp cloth or using natural remedies like neem oil or insecticidal soap.