Golden Pothos (Epipremnum aureum): The Ultimate Easy-Care Trailing Plant

Botanical Name: Epipremnum aureum

Extremely easy to grow. Golden Pothos is famous for long, trailing stems reaching 8 ft (2.4 m) or more.

Cut back a couple times yearly to keep bushy. Cut just above a leaf node to encourage branching.

Glossy heart-shaped leaves emerge green, becoming variegated with yellow/white. Tolerates low light but may lose variegation. Best in moderate/bright light. Excellent office plant—thrives under fluorescent lights.

Display Ideas

• Hanging basket: Show off trailing stems.
• Climbing: Train aerial roots up a moss pole or trellis (e.g., Achla Designs Spiral Trellis). Use florist wire to hold vines while they attach.

Repot in spring as needed. Control growth by cutting vines and trimming up to 1/3 of roots. Keep in same-size pot to stay small.

Air-Cleaning Bonus

Pothos is among the best plants for removing formaldehyde from carpets and household materials. Beautiful, low-maintenance, and cleans the air.

Pothos Care Quick Reference

• Origin: Solomon Islands
• Height: To 8 ft (2.4 m)
• Light: Low to bright; no direct sun. Better variegation in bright light.
• Water: Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. No soggy soil. Yellow leaves = overwatering.
• Humidity: Average room humidity
• Temperature: 60–80°F (16–27°C)
• Soil: Any well-draining potting mix
• Fertilizer: Every 2 weeks spring–fall with balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength. Monthly in winter.
• Propagation: Stem tip cuttings root easily in water, moist perlite, or vermiculite. 4–6 inch stem with a couple leaves. Roots in ~4 weeks.