The Pothos plant is widely considered one of the easiest and most forgiving houseplants to care for, making it a popular choice for new plant owners. The botanical name for this tropical vine is Epipremnum aureum, and it is sometimes called Devil’s Ivy due to its resilience and ability to thrive even with neglect. Its popularity stems from its striking, heart-shaped leaves, which cascade beautifully from hanging baskets or climb vertical supports. This species is highly adaptable to a variety of indoor conditions.
Light and Temperature Tolerance
The Pothos plant’s adaptability is a primary reason for its reputation as a low-maintenance houseplant. While it survives in low-light conditions, this slows growth significantly and may cause variegated varieties to lose their distinctive patterns. Bright, indirect light is ideal, promoting faster growth and maintaining the vibrant coloration of cultivars like ‘Marble Queen’ or ‘Neon’ Pothos. Avoid direct, intense afternoon sunlight, as it can easily scorch the leaves, leading to brown, crispy patches.
This tropical species prefers standard indoor temperatures, ideally between 65°F and 85°F. It can tolerate slightly cooler conditions, but sudden drops below 50°F can cause stress and damage. Keep your Pothos away from cold drafts, such as those near air conditioning vents or frequently opened doors during winter months.
Watering and Feeding Requirements
Pothos is drought-tolerant, preferring to dry out partially between waterings rather than sitting in consistently moist soil. Overwatering is the most common mistake and can quickly lead to root rot, indicated by yellowing leaves that feel soft or mushy. To determine if your plant needs water, stick your finger into the soil; if the top one to two inches are dry, water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom of the pot.
If the plant is underwatered, the leaves will wilt, appearing limp and slightly curled. This wilting signals that the plant needs immediate hydration and it will usually perk back up within a day of receiving water. Pothos are not heavy feeders. Apply a balanced houseplant fertilizer, diluted to half strength, once a month during the growing season (spring through summer). Fertilizing is not necessary in the fall and winter when the plant’s growth naturally slows down.
Managing Growth and Propagation
Pothos has a vining habit, and pruning manages its length while encouraging a fuller, bushier appearance. When pruning, cut the vine with clean, sharp scissors just above a node, which is the small bump on the stem where a leaf or aerial root emerges. Cutting at this point encourages new growth to branch out, preventing the vines from becoming long and sparse, a condition known as legginess.
The trimmings offer an easy way to propagate new plants. Take a cutting that includes at least one leaf and one node, then place the cutting directly into a glass of water, ensuring the node is submerged. The node contains the necessary cells for root development, and new white roots typically emerge within a few weeks. Once the roots are a few inches long, the new plant is ready to be transferred to soil.
Toxicity and Troubleshooting Quick Fixes
Toxicity Warning
Pothos is toxic due to the presence of insoluble calcium oxalate crystals in the leaves and stems. If ingested by pets or small children, these needle-like crystals cause immediate pain, burning, and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and throat. While rarely fatal, place the plant in a location where it is inaccessible, such as on a high shelf where the vines can trail safely.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Tiny webs or sticky residue can signal a pest problem, such as spider mites, which can be managed by gently wiping the leaves with a damp cloth or a mild insecticidal soap.
Yellowing leaves are the most common sign of distress. To diagnose this, first check the soil; a soggy, wet environment indicates overwatering, while a dry environment suggests the plant is thirsty. If the soil moisture is correct and the plant is actively growing, a lack of fertilizer may be the cause, directing you back to the feeding schedule.