Velvet Pothos, often recognized as Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’ or ‘Satin Pothos,’ is a popular houseplant celebrated for its distinctive foliage. This tropical plant, originating from Southeast Asian rainforests, features heart-shaped leaves with a unique matte, velvety texture. Its dark green leaves are adorned with silvery-grey variegation, creating a visually appealing contrast for indoor spaces.
Velvet Pothos Care
Velvet Pothos thrives with careful environmental management. Consistent care supports lush growth and maintains its unique leaf texture.
Light
Velvet Pothos flourishes in bright, indirect light, mimicking its natural habitat beneath a tree canopy. Place the plant near an east or west-facing window, or a north-facing window for lower light, providing suitable illumination. Too much direct sunlight can scorch delicate leaves, causing bleached or brown patches, while insufficient light may lead to leggy growth and reduced variegation.
Watering
Watering is important for Velvet Pothos, which prefers its soil to dry out between waterings. Water when the top one to two inches of soil feel dry, typically every one to two weeks. Overwatering can lead to root rot, causing yellowing leaves, mushy stems, and brown tips. Underwatering causes wilting, curling, or crispy brown edges.
Soil
A well-draining and aerated potting mix is essential to prevent waterlogging and promote root health. A suitable mix includes components such as coco coir, orchid bark, perlite, and sphagnum peat moss, providing good drainage and moisture retention. They prefer a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH (6.1 to 6.8).
Temperature and Humidity
Velvet Pothos prefers consistent warmth and elevated humidity. Optimal temperatures range between 65°F and 85°F (18°C-30°C); avoid temperatures below 50-55°F (10-13°C) to prevent damage. While adaptable to average household humidity, it thrives in 40-60% relative humidity. Increase humidity by placing the pot on a pebble tray, grouping it with other plants, or utilizing a room humidifier.
Fertilizing
During spring and summer, Velvet Pothos benefits from regular fertilization. A balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 formula, diluted to half strength, can be applied monthly or bi-weekly. Reduce or cease fertilizing during fall and winter as growth slows. Avoid over-fertilization, which can cause salt buildup, browning leaf tips, and stunted growth.
Propagating Velvet Pothos
Propagating Velvet Pothos is straightforward, primarily done through stem cuttings. Take a 4-6 inch stem segment with at least one node, a small bump or joint where leaves and roots emerge. Use clean, sharp scissors and remove any leaves that would be submerged.
Cuttings can be rooted in either water or soil. For water propagation, place the cutting in a glass or jar with room-temperature water, submerging the node but keeping leaves above the water line. Change the water every few days for freshness. Position in a bright spot with indirect light. Roots typically form within weeks; once 1-3 inches long, transplant to potting soil.
Alternatively, cuttings can be rooted directly in a well-draining soil mix. Dipping the cut end in rooting hormone can encourage faster root development. Create a small hole, insert the cutting with the node buried, and gently firm the soil. Maintaining high humidity (e.g., with a plastic bag or humidity dome) improves rooting success.
Common Velvet Pothos Problems
While generally easy-care, Velvet Pothos can exhibit issues, often signaling a need for care adjustment. Leaf observation indicates underlying problems. Promptly addressing these concerns maintains plant health.
Yellowing leaves are a common symptom with several causes. Overwatering, leading to soggy soil and root rot, often causes soft, yellow leaves that may drop. Underwatering also causes yellowing, often with wilting or crispy textures. Other causes include too much direct sunlight, insufficient light, nutrient imbalances, or a root-bound pot.
Brown leaves or tips often indicate moisture or environmental issues. Crispy brown edges suggest underwatering or low humidity; soft, mushy brown spots indicate overwatering and potential root rot. Direct sun exposure can scorch leaves. Nutrient deficiencies, excess fertilizer, sudden temperature fluctuations, or chemicals in tap water can also contribute to browning.
Pest infestations are less common but can occur. Mealybugs, spider mites, whiteflies, and scale may affect these plants. Regular inspection, especially of leaf undersides, aids early detection. Pests can be managed by wiping leaves with a damp cloth or applying horticultural oil/insecticidal soap.