Pothos
Epipremnum aureum
Practically indestructible trailing plant with heart-shaped leaves splashed in gold and green. Also called devil's ivy because it's nearly impossible to kill and stays green even in dark conditions. The ideal first houseplant.
Best rooms for pothos
Light requirements
Best near a window with filtered light — avoid harsh direct rays.
Tolerates shade and north-facing windows with limited natural light.
How to care for pothos
Thrives in almost any light level, though variegation fades in deep shade. Water when the top 3cm of compost dries — tolerates occasional forgetting. Feed monthly spring-summer. Pinch stems to encourage bushy growth. Train up a moss pole for larger leaves or let it trail from a shelf. Minimum 10°C.
Watering
Water when the top 2–3cm of compost feels dry. Roughly weekly.
Propagation
- Stem cuttings in water — roots in 1-2 weeks
- Layering
Toxicity
Contains calcium oxalate crystals. Causes mouth irritation and vomiting if chewed by pets.
Common problems
- Loss of variegation in low light
- Yellow leaves from overwatering
- Leggy stems in deep shade
Similar houseplants
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