The Lizard Queen Pothos, a cultivar of Epipremnum aureum, is a favored choice among indoor plant enthusiasts. This variety stands out due to its distinctive foliage, offering a unique aesthetic appeal. Its popularity is a testament to its beauty and straightforward care, making it an attractive addition for both novice and experienced plant collectors.
Identifying Lizard Queen Pothos
The Lizard Queen Pothos is distinguished by its unique leaf structure and coloration. Unlike other pothos varieties, it exhibits a pronounced central ridge or “spine” down the middle of each leaf. This feature gives the leaf a crinkled or puckered, almost reptilian appearance, inspiring its name.
Leaves are typically a vibrant medium green, often with subtle shade variations. While some pothos have prominent variegation, the Lizard Queen’s charm is its structural uniqueness. Its distinct puckering and prominent central vein are key indicators for identification.
Lizard Queen Pothos Care
Light Needs
Lizard Queen Pothos thrives in bright, indirect light. Place the plant near an east-facing window or a few feet from a south or west-facing window with sheer curtains for ideal illumination. Direct, intense sunlight can scorch its leaves, leading to brown spots and a faded appearance. Insufficient light results in leggy growth with sparse, smaller leaves as the plant stretches for more light.
Watering
Proper watering is crucial for Lizard Queen Pothos, balancing overwatering and underwatering. Allow the top two to three inches of soil to dry completely between waterings. Check soil moisture with a finger before watering thoroughly until it drains from the pot bottom. Overwatering leads to root rot (yellowing leaves, mushy stem base), while underwatering causes leaves to droop and become crispy.
Soil Requirements
The ideal potting mix for Lizard Queen Pothos prioritizes excellent drainage and aeration. A well-draining aroid mix, typically consisting of peat moss or coco coir, perlite, and orchid bark, provides the necessary structure. This combination prevents waterlogged conditions, which are detrimental to roots, while retaining adequate moisture. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to facilitate water escape.
Humidity and Temperature
Lizard Queen Pothos prefers moderate to high humidity (ideally 50-70%) for lush foliage and vigorous growth. While it tolerates average household humidity, prolonged low humidity can cause brown leaf tips and slowed growth. Increase humidity by grouping plants, using a pebble tray, or employing a room humidifier. Maintain a consistent temperature range of 65-80°F (18-27°C), as extreme fluctuations or temperatures below 60°F (15°C) can stress the plant.
Fertilizing
Fertilize Lizard Queen Pothos during its active growing season (spring and summer) to support healthy growth. Apply a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer, diluted to half strength, every two to four weeks. Reduce or cease fertilization during fall and winter, as the plant’s growth naturally slows. Over-fertilization can lead to salt buildup, causing root burn and leaf discoloration.
Propagating Lizard Queen Pothos
Propagating Lizard Queen Pothos is straightforward using stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem section with at least two to three leaves and a node (a small bump where leaves and roots emerge). Cut the stem just below a node, ensuring the cutting is four to six inches long. Remove any leaves that would be submerged in water to prevent rot.
Place the cutting in a clear glass of water, ensuring at least one node is submerged. Position the glass in bright, indirect light, and change the water every few days to keep it fresh. Roots typically emerge within two to four weeks. Once an inch or two long, transplant the cutting into a well-draining potting mix. Alternatively, cuttings can be placed directly into moist soil, though rooting may take slightly longer.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Yellowing leaves often indicate overwatering or poor drainage, suggesting a need to adjust watering or improve soil aeration. Brown and crispy leaf tips point to insufficient humidity or underwatering, prompting increased humidity or more consistent watering. Drooping leaves signal underwatering when dry, or overwatering/root rot when wet.
Pest infestations can occur, including spider mites, mealybugs, or scale insects. Inspect leaf undersides and stem joints regularly to identify pests early. Treat affected plants with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Stunted growth may indicate a need for more light, nutrients, or a larger pot, signaling it’s time to assess growing conditions.