VLoveof Nature

Golden pothos

Epipremnum aureum

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Golden pothos · Epipremnum aureum

Soft trailing leaves bring green to a bright corner near a window.

Care and placement

Prefers bright indirect light and tolerates dim spots with slower growth and fading variegation; water when the top of the mix is dry, at roughly 18–30 °C.

Draft mature dimensions

Maximum height (cm): 200 cm · Maximum spread (cm): 100 cm

Things to consider

Toxic to dogs and cats (insoluble calcium oxalates): burning mouth, drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing (ASPCA). Sap may irritate skin. Keep pets and young children from chewing leaves.

Unknown evidence does not mean safe. Decorative plants are not automatically edible.

Information is compiled from multiple reputable sources for reference. If you spot an error, please contact us so we can check and update it.

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How to grow and care for it

  1. Planting and pot

    Plant in a draining pot or hanging basket with an airy mix, and let the vines trail or climb a moss pole. Repot about every 2 years.

  2. Light

    Bright indirect light is best; low light is survivable but slows growth and fades the variegation. Direct harsh sun scorches leaves.

  3. Watering

    Water when the top 2–3 cm of mix is dry, usually every 1–2 weeks, less in cool months. Overwatering is the top killer.

  4. Feeding

    Feed with balanced liquid fertilizer once a month in the growing season at half strength; stop when it is cool.

  5. Pruning

    Pinch tips and cut long vines just above a node so the plant branches and stays full.

  6. Propagation

    Take 10–15 cm cuttings with at least one node and a few leaves; root in water or moist mix, then pot up once roots form after a few weeks.

  7. Pests and common problems

    Common pests are mealybugs and scale, sometimes spider mites; rot follows overwatering. Blackened leaf tips can come from overwatering, underwatering or too much fertilizer. Wipe leaves; use insecticidal soap or neem oil.

  8. For plentiful, healthy leaves

    For fuller, larger leaves: give enough bright indirect light, pinch regularly, feed steadily in warm months, and let vines climb a moss pole.