The ‘Pearls and Jade’ Pothos (Epipremnum aureum ‘Pearls and Jade’) is a widely admired houseplant, known for its distinctive foliage. Many plant enthusiasts wonder if this variety is rare in today’s market.
The Rarity of Pearls and Jade Pothos
While initially less common, the ‘Pearls and Jade’ Pothos is generally not considered rare today. Its initial limited supply and growing demand led to a perception of rarity and higher prices. However, as its popularity increased, cultivation and propagation efforts have made it widely available.
Identifying Pearls and Jade Pothos
The ‘Pearls and Jade’ Pothos is recognized by its unique visual characteristics. Its leaves display a striking variegation pattern of green, white, and cream. A distinguishing feature is the presence of flecked areas of variegation within the larger white or cream patches, often appearing as green speckles on the green sections of the leaves. The leaves are typically smaller than ‘Golden Pothos’, usually measuring two to three inches long and one and a half to two inches wide. They also have a slightly ruffled texture, a heart-shaped base, and a more pointed tip.
Debunking the Rarity Myth
The perception of rarity surrounding ‘Pearls and Jade’ Pothos stems from its specific origin and confusion with similar-looking cultivars. It was developed by scientists at the University of Florida, receiving its patent in 2008. It originated as a mutation induced in ‘Marble Queen’ Pothos plants through gamma ray irradiation. This controlled breeding initially limited its distribution, contributing to its earlier perceived scarcity.
Confusion often arises when distinguishing ‘Pearls and Jade’ from ‘N’Joy’ Pothos and ‘Manjula’ Pothos, all exhibiting green and white variegation. ‘N’Joy’ Pothos typically features more defined, solid blocks of white and green, with distinct boundaries and no speckling within the white areas. In contrast, ‘Pearls and Jade’ exhibits green speckles or flecks within its variegated sections, creating a less uniform pattern. ‘N’Joy’ also has a more compact growth habit with shorter spaces between leaves, while ‘Pearls and Jade’ leaves can be slightly larger and more elongated. The ‘Manjula’ Pothos is characterized by larger, often wider leaves with wavy or ruffled edges. Its variegation patterns typically include broader splashes of creamy white and green, differentiating it from the finer speckling of ‘Pearls and Jade’.
Market Availability and Pricing
Currently, ‘Pearls and Jade’ Pothos is broadly accessible across various retail channels. Its ease of propagation and sustained popularity ensure its widespread market presence. You can find this variety in local nurseries, large garden centers, and online plant shops. Its pricing is generally affordable, reflecting its common availability rather than true rarity. A small potted ‘Pearls and Jade’ Pothos typically ranges from $10 to $25, with larger plants sometimes reaching up to $40, positioning it as an accessible option for many plant enthusiasts.