Pothos (Epipremnum pinnatum)
Care, watering, light and tips for Pothos on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Araceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Indirect light
- Temperature: 15–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Pothos
Epipremnum pinnatum, also known as Pothos or Tongavine, is a tropical climbing plant from the Araceae family, prized for its large, lobed leaves that develop fenestrations (cuts) with maturity, resembling a Monstera. Its glossy green leaves can vary in shape and size, adding an exotic touch to any space. It's ideal for hanging baskets, high shelves, or climbing up a moss pole, where its mature leaves can display their spectacular transformation.
Native range
French Polynesia and tropical Southeast Asia, including Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines.
Care tips
This plant prefers bright, indirect light, although it tolerates medium light conditions; avoid intense direct sunlight to prevent leaf scorching. Water when the top layer of the substrate is dry, allowing it to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent waterlogging, which is its most common mistake and can lead to root rot. Use a well-draining, organic-rich substrate, such as an aroid mix. Provide a support for it to climb and develop its larger, fenestrated leaves.
How to save a dying Pothos
- Warning signs
- Yellow, soft leaves (overwatering), brown, crispy leaves (underwatering/low humidity), black, mushy stems (rot).
- First aid
- Check soil moisture, remove damaged leaves, prune affected stems. Ensure bright indirect light and good humidity.
- What kills it
- Overwatering is the main killer, followed by insufficient light or cold drafts.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes! It's very resilient. Take healthy cuttings to propagate if the mother plant is too far gone.