Epipremnum aureum

Scientific Name : Epipremnum aureum Syn. Scindapsus aureus
Common Name : Pothos, golden pothos, devil's ivy



S. aureus used to be one of those varieties that were difficult to propagate and to care for indoors. Yet we now have a plant with the same name that is one of the most reliable and one of the most colourful foliage plants available. It can only be that by constant re-selection a much tougher strain of teh same plant has been evolved; there is now little difficulty in propagating it, and it seems to have an almost charmed life indoors.

Belonging to the Araceae family, it needs a reasonable amount of moisture in the pot and , if possible, also in the surrounding atmosphere. The variegated leaves are green and gold, and for a variegated plant it has the truly amazing capacity of being able to retain its colouring in less well lit places.

Most other varietgated plants deteriorate or turn completely green if placed in locations offering insufficient light.

The devil's ivy will also climb or trail as desired, and does well in hydroculture.



Plant Description : Evergreen vines with stems green and striped with white or yellow; leaves heart-shaped, variegated; flowers in a spadix surrounded by a spathe.
Ease of growing : very easy to grow
Light: Indirect or bright diffused light is best.
Water: Moderately moist soil is preferred. Water thoroughly when the soil surface is dry to the touch. Do not allow plants to stand in water.
Origin : Asia
Poisonous Part : Whole plants
Symptoms : Burning and swelling of lips, mouth, tongue, and throat, also diarrhea. Skin irritation from frequent contact.
Toxic substance : calcium oxalate crystals
Severity : Toxic only if large quantities eaten. Causes severe pain in the mouth if eaten. Skin irritation minor, or lasting only for a few minutes.
Comments: Pothos plants are very tolerant of watering variations and are resistant to most pests. For best color, provide bright light. In low light situations, most Pothos will lose their leaf variegation and become solid green. These plants vine very easily and can cascade from ceiling to floor to create a dramatic hanging basket. Avoid hot, dry conditions.