Pothos
Epipremnum aureum
AKA: Devil’s Ivy, Golden Pothos
easy
low water
low, medium, bright_indirect
Pet caution
Pothos is one of the easiest and most forgiving houseplants. It adapts to a wide range of light levels, grows quickly, and clearly shows when it needs water.
Care snapshot
☀️ Light
Low, Medium, Bright Indirect
💧 Water
Low
💨 Humidity
Low To Medium
📈 Growth
Fast
Pothos Care at a Glance
Pothos is a classic beginner-friendly houseplant with trailing vines that look great on shelves, desks, or hanging baskets.
Best For
- Beginners
- Low light rooms
- Offices
- Hanging baskets
- Busy plant owners
Not Great For
- Homes with plant-chewing pets
- Overwatering habits
- Cold environments
Light Requirements
Pothos grows best in medium to bright indirect light but survives well in low light. More light encourages faster growth and stronger variegation.
How to Water Pothos
Water when the top layer of soil feels dry. Leaves will slightly droop when thirsty and perk up quickly after watering.
Watering Tips
- Always empty the saucer after watering.
- Reduce watering frequency in winter.
- If unsure, wait another day before watering.
Soil and Pot Choice
Use a light, well-draining potting mix in a pot with drainage holes. Avoid heavy soils that stay wet too long.
Pruning and Training
Regular pruning encourages bushier growth. Trim vines just above a leaf node and use cuttings for propagation.
How to Propagate Pothos (Water Method)
- Cut a healthy vine below a node with at least one leaf.
- Place the cutting in water, ensuring the node is submerged.
- Change water every few days.
- Once roots reach 5–8 cm (2–3 inches), pot into soil.
Pothos Problems (Fast Fix Guide)
Yellow leaves
Cause: Overwatering
Fix: Allow soil to dry more between waterings
Long bare vines
Cause: Low light
Fix: Move to brighter indirect light and prune
Brown tips
Cause: Dry air or salt buildup
Fix: Flush soil and increase humidity slightly
Pet Safety Warning
- Pothos is toxic to cats and dogs if chewed.
- Keep out of reach of pets and small children.
When the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry. It’s better to underwater slightly than overwater.
Yes, but growth will be slower and variegation may fade.
Most often from overwatering or poor drainage.
No. Pothos is toxic to cats and dogs if ingested.
Pet warning
Contains calcium oxalate crystals. Chewing may cause mouth irritation, drooling, and vomiting.
Video tips
Extra reading
FAQ
When the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry. It’s better to underwater slightly than overwater.
Yes, but growth will be slower and variegation may fade.
Most often from overwatering or poor drainage.
No. Pothos is toxic to cats and dogs if ingested.
