Tropical

Epipremnum aureum

Also known as Golden Pothos, this vine is perfect for indoor hanging baskets and spaces with limited sunlight.

Overview

Epipremnum aureum is native to Mo’orea, in the South Pacific.

Known for its cascading foliage, this plant thrives in a wide range of conditions and is one of the easiest houseplants to grow.

Plant Specifications
Botanical name	Epipremnum aureum
Common name	Golden Pothos, Devil’s Ivy, Money Plant, Hunter’s Robe
Family	Araceae
Genus	Epipremnum
Plant type	Vine (perennial)
Foliage	Evergreen
Maturity	1 to 2 years
Lifespan	10+ years
Native area	Mo’orea in French Polynesia (South Pacific)
Toxicity	Toxic to humans and other animals

Plant resilience

Flood
tolerant

Drought
tolerant

Growing season

Spring

Summer

Autumn

Winter

Close-up of Epipremnum aureum leaves

Plant care

Epipremnum aureum thrives in a range of indoor conditions. Its fast growth, tolerance for neglect, and adaptability to different light and humidity levels make it ideal for beginners and busy plant owners.

Epipremnum aureum

Light

Prefers bright indirect light, but it can adapt to lower light conditions. Avoid direct sunlight for extended periods, as it can cause leaf burn.

Soil

Thrives in a well-draining mix, such as orchid bark, perlite, peat, or coco coir, mimicking its natural environment and preventing compaction. To avoid root rot, the soil should remain moist but not soggy.

Water

Water when the top of the soil is dry. Water thoroughly to ensure moisture reaches the roots but avoid standing water, as overwatering can cause yellowing leaves and root rot.

Humidity

Thrives in moderate to high humidity, ideally around 40%-60% or higher. If the air is too dry, consider using a humidifier to keep the humidity high.

Temperature

Best kept in a warm environment, ideally between 18-30°C (65-86°F). Avoid exposure to cold drafts or temperatures below 10°C (50°F), as cold stress can damage the leaves.

Pruning

Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to trim damaged, yellowing, or unruly stems. Regular pruning encourages bushier growth and larger leaves.

Fertilizer

Feed it with a balanced fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during spring and summer. Reduce feeding in autumn and pause it entirely during the winter, when the plant enters dormancy.

Propagation

This plant is easily propagated through stem cuttings. Select a stem with at least one leaf node, trim it below the node, and place it in water for a few weeks before transitioning to soil.

Common pests

Watch for pests like spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. Signs include webbing, sticky residue, or discolored spots, which can be treated with neem oil or insecticidal soap, covering both sides of the leaves.

Troubleshoot

Yellowing leaves may indicate overwatering or poor drainage, while brown edges often signal low humidity or underwatering. Sparse and leggy growth is a sign of insufficient light.

Easy-growing and great for beginners

More information

Beyond its ease of care, Epipremnum aureum stands out for its adaptability and trailing habit. This resilient vine can thrive in soil or water and has become a favorite among plant lovers.

Why is it called Devil’s Ivy?

The nickname “Devil’s Ivy” comes from its remarkable ability to survive neglect and low-light conditions. Even with minimal natural light, the plant continues to grow, often maintaining its vibrant foliage.

This “indestructible” nature has earned it a reputation among gardeners as one of the most resilient indoor plants, capable of bouncing back from mistakes that might kill other species.

Epipremnum aureum in hydroponic setup

Can it be grown in water?

With proper care, Epipremnum aureum can live indefinitely in water. To ensure healthy growth, change the water weekly and provide occasional liquid fertilizer. Roots in water tend to be finer than soil roots, but the plant will continue to thrive, producing new leaves and cascading vines.

This versatility makes it perfect for decorative setups, terrariums, or countertop displays.

Epipremnum aureum: Neon variety

Epipremnum aureum: Marble queen

Can it bloom indoors?

Epipremnum aureum rarely blooms indoors. While it can produce small white or greenish flowers in its natural tropical environment, limited light and indoor spaces usually prevent flowering.

Despite this, the plant remains highly attractive thanks to its lush, heart-shaped leaves and trailing vines. Indoor growers focus on foliage and growth habits rather than blooms, making this plant a decorative and versatile houseplant even without flowers.

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Epipremnum aureum

Overview