Golden Pothos

When it comes to the choice of houseplants, there are a lot of options. Even though, we like plants with attractive features, most of us have a tendency to prefer those sturdy ones, which do not require much care. One such non messy houseplant is golden pothos that is known by many other names like Devil's Ivy Silver Vine, Centipede Tongavine, and Solomon Islands' Ivy, etc. It is also known as variegated philodendron, but is a variety of pothos plant (Epipremnum aureum). There are many other varieties like jade pothos with green leaves, marble queen pothos with white variegation on green leaves, etc. As the name rightly suggests, golden pothos has golden-yellow designs on the leaves. It is said that this plant is native to Solomon Islands and some parts of southeast Asia.

Golden Pothos Facts

Golden pothos is a vine having green stems that produce heart-shaped leaves with golden variegation. When grown as houseplants, their leaves are found to have a maximum length of around five inches. But, adult golden pothos leaves can be as long as twenty inches and are seen in its natural habitat. However, if these plants are allowed to grow on trees, then, they may grow large. Apart from the bigger size, the leaves of adult pothos may also be pinnated. In other words, the leaves may have dissections that start from the outer margins and run to the midrib. Even the golden color on the leaves develop only if the plant is healthy and hearty. Otherwise, you may find only green leaves on your golden pothos.

Even though they originate from a tropical habitat, golden pothos plants are found to get adapted to a wide range of growing conditions and this makes it one of the commonly found tropical houseplants. Another advantage of this plant is that, it can be grown in hanging baskets, on tree trunks, as a ground covering, can be grown upright with stakes, or as a stand alone potted plant on a desk. There are many different ways to grow golden pothos.

How to Take Care of Golden Pothos

Even though, golden pothos is a tough plant, proper care is always good for a healthier plant. As far as golden pothos is concerned, you have to take care of certain factors, like light, water, trimming, etc. While too much direct sunlight can cause dropping of leaves, partial sun or bright indirect light will be good for the plant. You may also provide your golden pothos with one or two hours of bright sunlight. Low light conditions may minimize or nullify the yellow variegation in the leaves of this plant. Over watering may sometimes cause root and stem rot. So, it is always better to thoroughly water the plant once a week or as when required. If the soil has become dry, the leaves will get rubbery. During winters water less. It will be beneficial to mist the plant once a week, so as to keep the humidity level high.

Another aspect of golden pothos care is feeding, which can be done once a month, with a commercial plant fertilizer. In case of indoor ones, trimming will be often required to keep the plant bushy. How to propagate golden pothos? This is one of the common queries about this plant. Propagation is usually done with stem cuttings planted in rooting medium. Roots may form in water too. Plant the rooted cuttings in pots with well-drained soil. Repotting can be done during the spring. Golden pothos is normally found to be resistant to bugs and diseases. Wiping the leaves with a damp cloth, once a week will be beneficial to ward off insects.

In short, golden pothos can be a best addition to your garden. It is a non-messy plant, with minimal requirements. Another advantage of this plant is that, it is said to have air cleaning properties and so, are preferred for indoors.