The Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is a highly popular tropical houseplant, sometimes mistakenly called “pho plants.” Native to the Solomon Islands, this resilient vine is known for being easy to care for. Pothos is valued for its long, trailing vines that easily drape from hanging baskets or climb vertical supports, making it an excellent choice for novice plant owners.
Identifying Pothos Plants
Pothos plants are easily recognizable by their glossy, heart-shaped leaves, which grow alternately along the vining stems. As a houseplant, the leaves are typically small, but in its native habitat, mature leaves can develop large splits. The plant is often called Devil’s Ivy due to its near-indestructibility and ability to remain green even in low light.
The most common variety, Golden Pothos, features mid-green foliage heavily splashed with creamy yellow variegation. Other popular cultivars include the ‘Marble Queen’, which has a distinctive marbled pattern of white and green across its leaves. The ‘Neon’ variety displays bright, chartreuse-yellow leaves that contain no variegation. Light exposure influences the intensity and retention of these distinct color patterns.
Comprehensive Growing Instructions
Pothos plants prefer bright, indirect light, which encourages robust growth and helps maintain the vibrant patterns on variegated varieties. While they can tolerate lower light levels, growth will slow significantly, and the white or yellow markings may fade, causing the leaves to revert to solid green. Direct, intense sunlight should be avoided, as it can scorch the foliage and cause pale, bleached spots to appear.
The most common mistake in Pothos care is overwatering, which can quickly lead to root rot. A successful watering regimen involves using the “soak and dry” method, where the plant is thoroughly watered only after the top two inches of soil have completely dried out. The plant will often signal its need for water by exhibiting a slight droop in its leaves, which should perk up quickly after a deep watering.
Pothos thrives in a standard, well-draining houseplant potting mix that is rich in organic matter. A pot with a drainage hole is necessary to allow excess water to escape and prevent root saturation. Ideal indoor temperatures for this tropical native range between 65°F and 85°F, and it is best kept away from cold drafts or direct heat sources.
While this plant is not a heavy feeder, it benefits from occasional nutrition during its active growth period. During the spring and summer months, a balanced, water-soluble houseplant fertilizer can be applied monthly or bi-weekly. Fertilization should be reduced or stopped entirely during the dormant winter months when the plant’s growth naturally slows down.
Propagation and Safety Considerations
Creating new Pothos plants is a simple process that requires only a healthy stem cutting, which can be rooted in either water or soil. The most effective method involves taking a cutting that is about two to three inches long and includes at least one node. The node is the small bump where a leaf meets the stem. When placed in water, the node is where new roots will emerge within a few weeks, and the new plant can then be transferred to a pot with soil.
Despite their popularity, all parts of the Pothos plant contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, making them toxic if ingested by humans or pets. When chewed, these needle-like crystals cause immediate and intense pain, burning, and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and throat. For households with curious pets or small children, it is important to place the trailing vines in locations where they are completely out of reach.