Pothos

Pothos, commonly Epipremnum aureum, is a trailing or climbing evergreen vine in the arum family (Araceae). Native to the Solomon Islands, it has become one of the most popular houseplants worldwide, valued for its tolerance of low light and easy care.

The plant has heart-shaped leaves that are variegated with green and yellow or white; juvenile leaves are smaller and more uniformly green, while mature leaves on older vines are larger and can be solid green or variegated depending on cultivar. It produces aerial roots and climbs using them or can trail.

Care: Pothos tolerates a wide range of light levels, but variegation is best in bright indirect light; avoid direct sun which can scorch leaves. Use well-draining potting mix; water when the top inch of soil is dry; avoid overwatering. It prefers average indoor temperatures; it can tolerate dry air but not water-logged soil. Pruning encourages bushier growth. Propagation via stem cuttings with at least one node; place in water or soil to root.

Cultivars and use: Common varieties include Golden pothos, Marble Queen pothos, Neon pothos, and Pearl pothos; used in interiors, hanging baskets, or as climbing vines on moss poles.

Toxicity: All parts contain calcium oxalate crystals; ingestion can irritate mouth and digestive tract; keep away from pets and small children.

Invasive potential: In some tropical or subtropical climates, pothos can escape cultivation and become invasive, smothering native vegetation; care when planting outdoors in these regions.