The Devil’s Ivy, scientifically known as Epipremnum aureum and commonly called Pothos, is a widely cultivated and resilient houseplant. This vining plant originates from the tropical forests of Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands, where it naturally thrives in a consistently warm and humid environment. Its overall health and vigorous growth are directly tied to maintaining its preferred temperature range. Understanding these specific thermal requirements is the first step toward ensuring it flourishes in a home environment.
Ideal Growing Conditions
Devil’s Ivy exhibits its most active and healthy growth when temperatures are maintained between 60°F and 85°F (15°C to 29°C). This range mimics the warmth of its native tropical habitat, allowing metabolic processes, such as photosynthesis and nutrient uptake, to function efficiently. Within this thermal window, the plant directs energy toward producing new foliage and extending its trailing vines.
Consistent temperatures are more beneficial than fluctuating ones, even if variations remain within the ideal zone. Frequent or drastic temperature shifts can introduce stress that slows the plant’s growth rate and overall vigor. Sustained conditions on the warmer side of this range, particularly above 70°F (21°C), encourage faster development during the active growing seasons of spring and summer.
The Danger Zone (Cold Tolerance)
As a tropical species, the most significant risk for Devil’s Ivy is exposure to cold, which quickly causes irreversible cellular damage. The minimum survival threshold for this plant is approximately 50°F (10°C). Prolonged exposure at or below this temperature forces the plant into severe stress, halting growth and threatening its tissues.
When Pothos is subjected to temperatures near this threshold, the first signs of cold damage appear as dark, water-soaked patches on the leaves, which turn black or dark brown as the tissue dies. A sudden temperature drop, such as from being near an open window during winter, can also trigger rapid leaf drop as the plant attempts to conserve resources. The most common hazard is cold drafts from air conditioning vents or proximity to uninsulated windows.
Growers must be vigilant about the microclimates within their homes, as the temperature near a windowpane can be significantly lower than the ambient room temperature. Allowing the roots to remain wet in cold conditions exacerbates the problem, as the cold water further chills the root system and inhibits its function. Protecting the plant from these cold pockets is necessary to prevent a total collapse of its health.
Managing Excessive Heat
While Devil’s Ivy is accustomed to tropical heat, it has an upper tolerance limit before sustained high temperatures cause stress. The plant can generally tolerate brief exposures up to 94°F (35°C), but sustained temperatures above 90°F (32°C) require significant care adjustments. In these conditions, the primary challenge is managing accelerated water loss.
High heat causes the plant to increase its rate of transpiration, dramatically increasing the plant’s water demand. This means the soil will dry out much faster than normal. The primary care adjustment during heat waves is increasing watering frequency to prevent the plant from wilting.
High temperatures often coincide with drier air, which compounds stress on the foliage. To counteract the drying effects of excessive heat, increasing the ambient humidity around the plant is beneficial. This can be achieved through misting the leaves, placing the pot on a pebble tray with water, or using a room humidifier.