Plant Profile: Pothos or Devil's Ivy
Plant Profile: Pothos or Devil's Ivy
Pothos plants, also known as Devil's Ivy, are popular indoor plants that belong to the Epipremnum genus. They are native to the Solomon Islands and are known for their trailing vines and heart-shaped leaves.
Devil's Ivy Pothos plants are highly adaptable indoor plants and can thrive in various light conditions, making them a favourite choice for hanging pots.
Popular Varieties of Pothos - Devil's Ivy
1. Golden Pothos (Epipremnum aureum): This variety has vibrant green leaves with yellow variegation. It is one of the most common and easy-to-grow Pothos plants. A beautiful trailing plant that looks great in a hanging basket, the Devils Ivy is very low maintenance.
2. Marble Queen Pothos (Epipremnum aureum 'Marble Queen'): This variety features green leaves with white marbling, creating an elegant and eye-catching appearance.
3. Neon Pothos (Epipremnum aureum 'Neon'): As the name suggests, this variety has bright, neon-green leaves that add a pop of colour to any space.
4. Jade Pothos (Epipremnum aureum 'Jade'): This variety has solid green leaves without any variegation. It is a classic choice for those who prefer a more understated look.
How to Care and Maintain a Devil's Ivy Pothos Plant
Light: As indoor plants, Pothos plants can tolerate a wide range of light conditions, but they thrive best in bright, indirect light. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight, as it can scorch their leaves.
Watering: Allow the top inch of the soil to dry out before watering your Pothos plant. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's important to maintain a balanced watering routine.
Temperature and Humidity: Pothos plants, a popular indoor plant, prefer temperatures between 15-29°C. They can tolerate lower temperatures but may suffer damage if exposed to cold drafts. They also appreciate moderate humidity levels of around 40%.
Fertiliser: Feed your Pothos plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertiliser once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). Follow the instructions on the fertiliser packaging for proper dosage.
Pruning: Regularly trim your Pothos plant to encourage bushier growth and prevent it from becoming leggy. You can propagate the cuttings in water or soil to expand your Pothos collection. Read our blog on How To Propagate a Rubber Plant.
Common Problems and Solutions
Yellowing Leaves: This can be a sign of overwatering or too much direct sunlight. Adjust your watering schedule and move the plant to a more suitable location with indirect light.
Brown Tips: Dry air or inconsistent watering can cause brown tips on Pothos leaves. Increase humidity levels by misting the plant or placing a humidifier nearby. Ensure you are watering your potted plant consistently.
Pests: Pothos plants are generally resistant to pests, but their heart shaped leaves can occasionally attract mealybugs or spider mites. Use an organic-based insecticide, neem oil or wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to remove them.
Root Rot: Overwatering or poorly-draining potting mix can lead to root rot. To prevent this, ensure the plant is potted in well-draining soil and allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
Pothos are dangerous when ingested so keep them away from pets and small children.
By following these care tips, you can enjoy the beauty of Pothos plants in your home. Their lush foliage and easy maintenance make them perfect indoor plants.
You also may like our blog Maintaining Your Plant For That Indoor Lifestyle.