Contents
Description
Epipremnum is a genus of flowering plants in the family Araceae, native to tropical regions of Southeast Asia, Australia, and the Pacific Islands. It is commonly known as Devil’s Ivy or Pothos and is a popular houseplant due to its versatility and low maintenance requirements. Epipremnum can grow in water or soil, and it can thrive in different lighting conditions, making it an ideal choice for beginners or those who want to add some greenery to their indoor space.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Alismatales |
| Family | Araceae |
| Genus | Epipremnum |
Appearance
Epipremnum has heart-shaped leaves that can vary in size and color depending on the cultivar. The most common varieties have green leaves, but there are also variegated ones with white, yellow, or light green patterns. The leaves can be shiny or matte, and they grow on long, trailing stems that can reach several feet in length. Epipremnum can also produce aerial roots that can climb walls or other surfaces, making it a great choice for decorating vertical spaces.
Care Guide
Epipremnum is a low maintenance plant that can tolerate different environments, but it still requires some basic care to thrive:
- Water: Epipremnum prefers to be kept moist but not waterlogged. Water it when the top inch of soil feels dry, and make sure to drain any excess water from the pot.
- Fertilization: Epipremnum can benefit from occasional fertilization with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer).
- Soil: Epipremnum can grow in most types of soil but prefers a well-draining mix that retains some moisture. You can use a commercial potting mix or make your own with equal parts of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite.
- Sunlight: Epipremnum can tolerate low to bright indirect light, but it prefers bright, indirect light for optimal growth and variegation. Direct sunlight can scorch its leaves.
- Hardiness Zones: Epipremnum is not frost hardy and should be kept indoors or in a warm, humid environment. It can thrive in USDA hardiness zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Epipremnum is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by some common issues:
- Mealybugs: These small, white insects can infest the leaves and stems, sucking the sap and causing yellowing or curling. They can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Scale: These tiny, brown or black insects can attach themselves to the leaves and stems, forming a protective shell. They can be removed with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
- Root rot: Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot, which can cause the plant to wilt and die. To prevent it, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Epipremnum is native to the tropical rainforests of Southeast Asia, Australia, and the Pacific Islands, where it grows as an epiphyte or hemiepiphyte on tree trunks or other surfaces. It can also grow as a groundcover or a climbing plant, using its aerial roots to anchor itself to the substrate. In its natural habitat, Epipremnum can produce flowers and fruit, but it rarely does so indoors.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Epipremnum toxic to pets?
A: Yes, Epipremnum contains calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation, swelling, and pain if ingested by pets or humans. Keep it out of reach of children and animals, and wash your hands after handling it.
Q: Can Epipremnum grow in water?
A: Yes, Epipremnum can grow in water as long as it has access to some light and nutrients. You can propagate it by rooting cuttings in a jar of water and changing the water every week or so.
Q: Can Epipremnum be grown outdoors?
A: Epipremnum is not frost hardy and should be kept indoors or in a warm, humid environment. However, it can be grown outdoors in warm, tropical climates as a groundcover or a climbing plant.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Epipremnum?
A: Epipremnum can benefit from occasional fertilization with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer). However, avoid overfertilizing, as it can burn the roots and damage the plant.
Related Plants
- Monstera deliciosa
- Philodendron
- Spathiphyllum
- Zamioculcas zamiifolia
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/pothos/pothos-plant-care.htm
- https://www.thespruce.com/grow-devils-ivy-indoors-1902745
- https://www.houseplantsexpert.com/epipremnum-aureum-devils-ivy.html
- https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/houseplant/pothos/
