Pothos
Epipremnum aureum
Also called: Devil's Ivy, Golden Pothos
Pothos. Epipremnum aureum, commonly called pothos or devil's ivy, is a tropical climbing aroid native to the Society Islands and naturalized across humid regions of Asia and the Americas. Trailing stems with heart-shaped, often variegated leaves make it one of the most adaptable and widely grown houseplants — tolerating low light, irregular watering, and root-bound containers.
Growing & care
- Light: low to bright indirect. Variegation fades in deep shade; direct sun scorches leaves.
- Water: when top 1–2 inches of soil are dry. Pothos signals thirst with drooping leaves that perk up within hours of watering.
- Soil: any well-drained potting mix. Tolerates slight pot-bound conditions better than most houseplants.
- Temperature: 65–85°F. Avoid drafts below 55°F.
- Humidity: average household humidity is fine; higher humidity speeds growth.
- Training: drape from a high shelf, train up a moss pole for larger leaves, or pinch tips to encourage bushiness.
Propagation
Cut a 4–6 inch stem section with at least one node and place in a glass of water. Roots emerge from the node within 1–2 weeks. Transfer to soil when roots reach 2 inches. Pothos roots so reliably that propagation in soil works just as well — skip the water step entirely.
Common problems
Yellow leaves on the lowest stems suggest overwatering or normal aging. Brown leaf tips indicate dry air, salt buildup from tap water, or under-watering. Loss of variegation is almost always a light problem — move closer to a window. Pothos contains insoluble calcium oxalates and is toxic to dogs and cats: keep out of reach in pet households.
Pothos — seeds, tools & books
Native range
Native range not recorded for this plant. Often a non-native cultivar or naturalized garden plant.
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