Pothos plants, known for their trailing vines and heart-shaped leaves, are popular among houseplant enthusiasts. Many wonder if Pothos varieties with pink leaves truly exist. This exploration identifies plants that display such tones and offers insights into their care.
The Reality of Pink Pothos
A Pothos variety with naturally vibrant pink leaves does not currently exist. Unlike plants such as the Philodendron Pink Princess, the striking, deep pink pigmentation is not a characteristic of the Epipremnum aureum genus. Any pinkish, reddish, or peachy hues observed in Pothos are typically a result of specific variegation patterns or environmental factors. These colors often emerge as a response to light intensity or controlled stress, rather than being a stable, inherent pink.
Pothos Varieties Displaying Pinkish Tones
Certain Pothos cultivars can exhibit subtle pinkish or peachy tones, often as an accent to their primary variegation. The ‘Manjula’ Pothos is recognized for its broad, heart-shaped leaves with wavy margins. Its variegation typically features shades of cream, white, and light green, and under specific light conditions, these lighter areas can develop a delicate pinkish blush.
Another variety, ‘Global Green’ Pothos, presents a unique green-on-green variegation, with darker green edges outlining a lighter green center. Occasionally, this plant may display small slivers or patches of cream or white. Under conditions of higher light or mild stress, some ‘Global Green’ leaves can develop a reddish or pinkish tint along their edges. ‘Pearls and Jade’ and ‘N’Joy’ Pothos, known for their distinct white and green variegation, can sometimes show very subtle pinkish responses to environmental stress. The white areas on their leaves might take on a faint rosy hue when exposed to bright, indirect light.
Encouraging Pinkish Hues in Pothos
To encourage pinkish tones in Pothos, light exposure plays a significant role. Bright, indirect light is paramount, as it helps intensify existing variegation and can trigger stress responses that bring out subtle colors. Placing the plant near an east- or west-facing window, or a south-facing window with a sheer curtain, provides optimal conditions.
Insufficient light can cause variegated Pothos to lose their distinct patterns and revert to solid green foliage. While direct sunlight should be avoided to prevent leaf scorching, balanced exposure is beneficial for color development. Introducing controlled, mild stress, such as allowing the soil to dry slightly more between waterings, can also contribute to color enhancement. However, ensure the plant remains hydrated enough to avoid severe stress that could harm its health.
Distinguishing Pothos from Other Pink-Leafed Plants
The popularity of pink foliage has led to confusion between Pothos and other genuinely pink-leafed houseplants. The Philodendron Pink Princess features dark green leaves with striking, stable patches of bright pink variegation. Its leaves are typically softer and thinner than those of a Pothos.
Syngonium species, often called Arrowhead Plants, are another group frequently mistaken for Pothos, and many varieties display vibrant pink foliage. Unlike the consistently heart-shaped leaves of Pothos, Syngonium leaves change shape as they mature, often developing distinct lobes. Aglaonema varieties, such as ‘Pink Dalmatian’ or ‘Red Aglaonema,’ also boast prominent pink or red coloration, presenting a more upright, bushy growth habit compared to the trailing vines of Pothos.
Caring for Pothos Varieties with Pinkish Tones
Providing consistent care is important for maintaining the health and appearance of Pothos varieties that can show pinkish hues. Watering should occur when the top one to two inches of soil feel dry to the touch. Pothos plants prefer well-draining potting mix and should not be left in standing water, as this can lead to root rot.
Optimal temperatures for Pothos range between 65°F and 85°F (18°C-29°C), and they generally adapt well to average household humidity. During the spring and summer growing seasons, a balanced liquid fertilizer can be applied monthly, diluted to half strength, to support healthy growth.