Epipremnum aureum
Epipremnum aureum · Araceae
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The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant epipremnum aureum: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Evergreen, dark green to variegated
- Flowering
- Rare indoors, inflorescences in spadix form
- Mature size
- Up to 2 m in a pot, far beyond in natural habitat
- Growth
- Very fast and vigorous
- Hardiness
- Tropical plant, min. 13–15 °C
- Origin
- Solomon Islands (Asia-Pacific)
- Soil type
- Light, well-draining potting mix, slightly acidic
Expert tips
The key tip
Arrosez modérément : le pothos meurt bien plus souvent d'excès d'eau que de sécheresse. Laissez les 2-3 premiers centimètres du substrat sécher entre deux arrosages, et videz toujours la soucoupe après 30 minutes. En hiver, espacez fortement les arrosages puisque la plante ralentit sa croissance.
The common mistake
Laisser le pot tremper dans l'eau ou garder la terre constamment humide. Le pothos pourrit rapidement en milieu humide permanent, et les racines d'une plante morte par excès d'eau ne se rétablissent jamais.
The pro's trick
Offrez-lui un tuteur, une perche ou une surface à grimper (même un simple bâton mouillé régulièrement) : les feuilles deviennent 3 à 4 fois plus grandes et la plante s'épanouit visuellement. Elle s'accroche naturellement avec ses racines aériennes.
Seasonal watch
En automne-hiver, surveillez l'araignée rouge si votre intérieur chauffe (radiateurs) et que l'air est sec. Pulvérisez le feuillage une fois par semaine et vérifiez régulièrement le revers des feuilles : c'est le premier symptôme qui signale une infestation avant qu'elle ne s'aggrave.
Care
Watering
Water regularly during the growing season (spring-summer), allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in winter. Prefer room-temperature water and avoid hard water if possible. Check that water drains well to prevent root rot.
Light and Exposure
Pothos thrives in bright indirect light, ideal for developing its foliage. It tolerates lower-light areas but grows more slowly and variegation may fade. Avoid direct, scorching sunlight which can burn the leaves. A north-, east-, or west-facing window works perfectly.
Pruning and Training
Prune regularly to control exuberant growth and encourage a bushier form. Pinch young stems to promote branching. You can stake the plant or let it trail in a hanging arrangement as you prefer. Cut stems root easily in water to propagate the plant.
Substrate and Repotting
Use a light, universal potting mix enriched with perlite or fine bark to improve drainage. Repot every 12 to 18 months in spring or as soon as roots emerge from the pot. A perforated, well-draining container is essential for this plant, which is sensitive to root suffocation.
Fertilizing
Apply a balanced, diluted fertilizer every 2 to 3 weeks during the growing period (May to September). In winter, stop fertilizing or reduce to once a month. Follow recommended dosages to prevent harmful salt buildup.
Pests and Diseases
Watch for spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids, especially in dry air. Yellow foliage may indicate overwatering or suffocated roots. Treat with good ventilation, watering adjustments, and if necessary, organic insecticides. Clean leaves regularly to improve photosynthesis and prevent pests.
Did you know?
Golden pothos earned the nickname "the immortal plant" because it's nearly impossible to kill for a beginner. In the Asia-Pacific region, it naturally climbs large trees and can reach over 20 meters, creating spectacular leafy "ropes." It also has the remarkable ability to purify indoor air by absorbing certain toxic substances, making it an ideal companion for offices and apartments.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.