Hawaiian Epipremnum, also known as Hawaiian Pothos, is a popular houseplant due to its striking foliage and easy care. Its variegated leaves add a tropical touch to indoor spaces, making it suitable for all plant enthusiasts. This article guides you on cultivating this plant, from identification to troubleshooting common issues.
Identifying Hawaiian Epipremnum
Hawaiian Epipremnum is identified by its unique visual characteristics. It features larger, more elongated leaves than other Pothos types and develops impressive vines. A key feature is its distinct variegation pattern, appearing as splashes or streaks of lighter green or chartreuse. This variegation often looks more pronounced and less defined than patterns on ‘Marble Queen’ or ‘Golden Pothos’. Its variegation tends to be a lighter, creamier yellow, differing from the deeper yellow hues of ‘Golden Pothos’.
Hawaiian Epipremnum Care
Light
Hawaiian Pothos thrives in bright, indirect light. While it tolerates lower light, too little light can cause its variegation to fade, leading to green leaves. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch leaves, causing bleached or brown spots. An east or north-facing window provides ideal light.
Water
Overwatering is a common issue for Hawaiian Pothos. Allow the soil to dry significantly between waterings. Check soil moisture by inserting a finger an inch or two deep; if dry, water the plant. Water thoroughly until water drains from the pot bottom, then empty any excess from the saucer.
Soil
Hawaiian Pothos prefers a well-draining potting mix. A standard houseplant mix works, but adding amendments like perlite, orchid bark, or coco coir enhances drainage. These additions prevent waterlogging. The soil should be neutral to slightly acidic.
Temperature and Humidity
Hawaiian Pothos prefers warm indoor temperatures, ideally 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C). It tolerates temperatures as low as 50°F (10°C), but consistent warmth is preferred. These tropical plants appreciate moderate to high humidity, ideally 50% to 70%. If indoor air is dry, increasing humidity through misting, using a pebble tray, or a humidifier benefits the plant.
Fertilizer
Hawaiian Pothos are not heavy feeders, but regular fertilization during the growing season supports growth and vibrant foliage. Apply a balanced, water-soluble houseplant fertilizer, diluted to half strength, monthly or every few weeks during spring and summer. Reduce or cease fertilization during fall and winter when growth slows. Over-fertilizing can lead to salt buildup in the soil, harming the roots.
Propagating Hawaiian Epipremnum
Propagating Hawaiian Epipremnum is straightforward, typically done through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem and use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to take a cutting with at least one node and a few leaves. The node, a small bump on the stem, is where new roots emerge. Remove any leaves that would be submerged if rooting in water to prevent rot.
Cuttings can be rooted in water or directly in soil. For water propagation, place the cutting in a clear container with fresh, room-temperature water, ensuring the node is submerged. Change the water weekly to keep it fresh. Roots typically form within a few weeks.
Once roots are about an inch or two long, transplant the cutting into a well-draining potting mix. When rooting directly in soil, plant the cutting with the node buried in moist, well-draining potting mix and keep the soil consistently damp but not soggy.
Common Problems with Hawaiian Epipremnum
Hawaiian Epipremnum, though resilient, shows stress through foliage changes. Yellowing leaves indicate overwatering, poor drainage, or nutrient deficiency. If leaves yellow and become mushy, overwatering is indicated, whereas yellowing with wilting suggests underwatering.
Brown tips or edges on leaves point to low humidity or inconsistent watering. Drafts or cold air also cause brown leaf edges. Leggy growth with long spaces between leaves signifies insufficient light; move the plant to a brighter, indirect light location.
Common houseplant pests like mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects affect Hawaiian Pothos. These are managed by wiping affected areas with rubbing alcohol or using insecticidal soap.