Epipremnum aureum

Pothos is a low-maintenance, perennial, broadleaf evergreen houseplant in the Araceae (arum) family and desired for its glossy, green or variegated leaves on cascading stems. It is native to the Society Islands. It grows only 6 to 8 feet as a horizontal groundcover, but the trailing and climbing vines can grow as long as 40 feet. This feature makes it well-suited for hanging baskets. As a container plant, it generally retains its juvenile leaf shape.

Pothos is very easy to grow. It prefers bright, indirect light but is even able to survive for long periods in low light. Mist the leaves regularly to keep humidity levels up and let the well-drained potting medium dry out between waterings. Fertilize every other month except when the plant is dormant in the winter. Wipe down the leaves every so often with a soft rag to remove any collected dust. Over time leaves will yellow and fall off, concentrating most of the leaves at the end of the stems. Prune stems back to maintain a bushy habit. Vines easily root in water. They climb by brown adhesive aerial roots. If given a support on which to climb and adequate light, the plant will begin to produce large, mature leaves.

It is distinguished from Philodendron hederaceum var. hederaceum by the absence of conspicuous free stipules on new growth and by the grooved petioles. 

Quick ID Hints:

• Indoor vine with glossy, heart-shaped leaves variegated with yellow

• No free stipules on new growth

• Petioles are grooved

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Root rot can occur with overwatering.

VIDEO Created by Elisabeth Meyer for "Edibles, Bulbs, and Houseplants " a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens.