Last updated on December 25, 2025
If you’re just starting with houseplants, pothos Plant is a great option. It grows quickly indoors and requires little effort. Some people call it Devil’s Ivy because it’s very hard to kill. Pothos has shiny leaves, long vines, and is easy to take care of, even for beginners.
Pothos does not need special soil or a strict watering schedule. This plant is simple and low-stress, perfect for anyone new to caring for indoor plants. Whether you place it on a shelf or let it hang, it stays healthy.
As you’ll see below, pothos adapts easily to different light and environments, so beginners will find it straightforward to care for and can compare it with other easy-care plants.
In the next section, this guide covers golden pothos care, its light needs, best soil, and fertilizer for strong, beautiful growth.
What Are Pothos Plants?
Pothos are fast-growing indoor vines that add quick greenery thanks to their simple care and bold look. Pothos plants can grow 12 to 18 inches a month.
The plant has heart-shaped leaves, often variegated with white, yellow, or light green. Pothos thrives in many rooms but is toxic to pets, so keep them out of reach.
Common Names:
Pothos, Golden Pothos, Devil’s Ivy
Scientific Name:
Epipremnum aureum
Family:
Araceae
Plant Type:
Trailing vine
Mature Size:
Grows 20–40 ft in length and spreads 3–6 ft wide
Soil pH:
Neutral to slightly acidic
Blooming:
Rare indoors
Flower Colors:
Yellow-gold or soft purple tones
Hardiness:
USDA Zones 10–12
Native Range:
Tropical Asia
For more detailed, science-backed plant information, you can check the Pothos profile on the Missouri Botanical Garden.
Warning: Are Pothos Plants Poisonous?
Pothos plants are toxic because their leaves and stems contain tiny calcium oxalate crystals that may irritate the mouth, throat, and stomach if chewed.
If swallowed, pothos may cause:
- Burning or swelling in the mouth
- Throat irritation
- Stomach discomfort
To keep everyone safe, keep pothos away from pets and small children who might chew it, as it can cause irritation and discomfort.
Also read: Plants that are safe for pets.
How to Plant Pothos?
Potting a pothos is an easy job, even if you’ve never done it before. Just a few simple steps will get your plant started.
➦ Choose a pot with drainage: Pothos roots don’t like sitting in water, or they may rot.
➦ Use well-draining soil: A general potting mix or a soilless mix works. Add perlite or coco coir to improve drainage.
➦ Pot style options: Pothos thrives in a hanging basket to show off trailing vines, or a standard pot on a stand.
➦ Growing support: You can let pothos climb walls, but watch out for aerial roots. They can attach to surfaces and may damage paint.
Tip: For easy care, place your pothos in bright, indirect light and let it trail naturally. To understand Light Concept and Positioning your plants you can read The Ultimate Indoor Plant Guide.
Benefits of Pothos Plant
Pothos is a low-maintenance, air-purifying indoor plant that thrives in almost any environment. Its attractive foliage and easy propagation make it perfect for beginners and busy plant lovers. Plus, its fast-growing vines add fresh, vibrant greenery to any room.
👉 You can also explore our 37 Best Indoor Plants for Beginners list.
Pothos Plant Care
Pothos are low-maintenance, fast-growing indoor plants that instantly add greenery to your home. First, provide the right soil and indirect light, then water regularly and feed occasionally to keep them healthy and vibrant for years. Whether flowing from a basket or wrapping around a trellis, pothos are perfect for beginners and busy plant lovers alike.
Light
Pothos are versatile and thrive in bright, indirect light, low light, or even under fluorescent bulbs. However, too much shade may cause variegated leaves to lose their patterns and turn solid green, while too much direct sunlight can make the leaves pale or scorched. Luckily, moving the plant to a better spot usually restores its vibrant leaf color.
Soil
These plants thrive in well-draining potting soil, slightly dry, or even chunky, airy mixes. Pothos grow best in soil that is slightly acidic to neutral, around pH 6–7, and well-draining soil helps avoid root issues and promotes healthy growth.
Water
Water your pothos when the top inch or two of soil feels dry. Usually, this is every one to two weeks, and even less often in winter. The leaves will droop slightly when thirsty, so don’t wait for them to shrivel. Also, overwatering can cause root rot, so water carefully.
Temperature
Keep your pothos above 50°F, ideally between 65–75°F, for steady growth. If the temperature drops suddenly, it can slow the plant down and stress it.
Humidity
Pothos enjoy moderate to high humidity but can adapt to drier air. For extra moisture, place the plant in a naturally humid spot, such as a bathroom or kitchen, or use a small humidifier nearby.
Fertilizer
Nourish your pothos with a well-balanced fertilizer while it’s actively growing, ideally with a 3-1-2 ratio. Typically, once or twice a month is enough. Fertilizer promotes lush leaves and long vines, and you can continue applying it lightly in winter if new leaves appear.
Right Plant for You?
A Pothos is perfect if:
- You want a trailing plant for shelves, tables, or hanging baskets.
- You can keep it out of reach of pets, as it’s mildly toxic.
- You have a spot with bright, indirect light.
- You prefer a low-maintenance plant that tolerates occasional missed waterings.
Want to hang your plants safely and beautifully? Read our complete guide on How to Hang Indoor Plants the Right Way to learn the correct methods, weight support rules, and beginner-friendly tips.
How to Propagate Pothos?
Propagating pothos is simple and fun! You don’t need to buy new plants—just use stem cuttings.
➦Select a healthy vine: Choose a stem with at least 2–3 leaves.
➦Cut below a node: Snip just below a root node with a clean, sharp tool.
➦Remove the lowest leaf: This prevents leaves from rotting in water or soil.
➦Place in water or soil: Submerge the cut end in a jar of water or plant directly in moist, well-draining potting mix.
➦Wait for roots: Roots appear in 1–2 weeks in water. Once several inches long, transfer to a pot if needed.
➦ Care for your new plant: Ensure your pothos gets bright, indirect light, and water it once the top of the soil dries out.
Soon, your cuttings will grow into lush, trailing vines ready to brighten any room!
How to Prune Pothos Plant?
Pothos grow quickly and can become leggy. Pruning isn’t essential for their health, but it keeps the plant looking full and attractive. Use a sharp, clean cutting tool and trim just below a leaf node. Always leave at least two nodes on the vine. You can prune during the growing season, but avoid cutting when the plant is dormant.
What Happens When You Trim a Pothos?
Removing yellow leaves can also encourage new growth. When you trim a stem, the plant forms a small callus at the cut point. Over time, a new stem may sprout from the nearest node, filling in bare areas.
How to Handle Yellow Leaves on Your Pothos
It’s normal for a pothos to get yellow leaves as it matures. Only remove leaves that are completely yellow. If a leaf is still green, the plant is still using it for energy. Use clean scissors or pruners to cut the yellow leaf at its base.
Types of Pothos
Pothos come in a range of leaf colours and patterns, adding charm to any indoor space. Each variety has unique traits and light needs:
➦ Marble Queen: Bold white-and-green variegated leaves. This Pothos variety loves bright, indirect light and needs slightly more sunlight to maintain its vibrant pattern.
➦ Pearls and Jade: Features grey, green, and white edges along the leaves. A vigorous climber that instantly enhances any corner.
➦ Neon: Bright chartreuse leaves. Perfect for low-light areas and instantly brightens darker rooms.
➦ Silver Satin: Grey-green leaves with silver patches. Hardy, drought-tolerant, and adapts well to low light.
Essentials for Pothos
- A self-watering planter helps keep the soil evenly moist.
- A good grow light encourages larger leaves, faster growth, and better variegation.
- Fertilizer supports healthy, lush growth.
Potting and Repotting Pothos Plant
➦ Over time, your pothos plant may become root-bound. Noticeably, if the leaves droop despite regular watering, it’s a sign the roots have filled the pot. Check for roots growing via drainage holes or gently lift the plant to inspect them.
➦ When this happens, repot your pothos into a container one or two sizes larger in diameter and depth. Additionally, use fresh, well-draining potting soil and water thoroughly to help the plant recover. Ideally, repot during the plant’s active growth phase.
➦ Choose a pot made of plastic, ceramic, metal, or terracotta with proper drainage. Moreover, if your pothos lives in a low-light area, terracotta works best as it naturally wicks away excess moisture.
Thanks to its trailing vines, pothos thrives in hanging baskets or macrame planters. Alternatively, you can grow pothos in water as long as the vessel is nonporous.
Common Pests and Diseases of Pothos Plant
Even hardy pothos plants can face pests or diseases from time to time. Early detection keeps them healthy and thriving.
Pest/Disease: What to watch for, How to handle it
| Pest / Disease | Signs | Remedies |
|---|---|---|
| Mealybugs | White, cotton-like clusters on stems or leaf joints | Wipe off with a damp cloth, spray neem oil or insecticidal soap |
| Fungal Leaf Spot | Brown or black circular spots, sometimes with yellow halos | Remove affected leaves, improve airflow, avoid wetting foliage |
| Aphids | Tiny green, black, or yellow insects on new growth | Spray gently with water, apply neem oil or insecticidal soap |
| Whitefly | Small heart-shaped flies that scatter when disturbed | Use sticky traps, spray with water or insecticidal soap |
| Root Rot / Bacterial Leaf Spot | Yellowing leaves, mushy roots, dark spots on leaves | Cut off damaged roots, repot in fresh well-draining soil, reduce watering |
| Spider Mites | Tiny spider-like bugs, webbing, speckled leaves | Wipe leaves with damp cloth, apply neem oil or insecticidal soap |
| Scale | Hard, shell-like bumps on stems or leaves | Prune affected stems, rub insects with cotton swab dipped in alcohol |
Pro Tip
If your pothos plant looks stressed, don’t worry. Simply take a few cuttings from healthy vines and propagate them in water or soil. Additionally, you can add rooted cuttings back into the main pot when repotting. This not only fills out the plant but also encourages fuller, lush growth.
Common Issues Pothos Plant Owners Face
Even the resilient pothos plant can show signs of stress or imbalance. Spotting problems early helps your plant bounce back quickly.
➦ Drooping or Wilting Leaves One of the first signs of stress is drooping leaves. This often happens due to underwatering or inconsistent moisture. To fix it, water deeply and check that the soil drains well. Occasionally, drooping can also indicate that the plant has outgrown its pot.
➦ Yellowing Leaves
It’s normal for old leaves to turn yellow. However, if many leaves are yellow, your plant might be overwatered or suffering from poor drainage. Check the roots carefully and remove any that are soft or mushy. Then adjust your watering routine.
➦ Brown Leaf Tips
Brown edges or tips usually indicate low humidity, too much direct sunlight, or uneven watering. If leaves are dry and crispy, try increasing humidity or moving the plant away from hot, sunny spots.
➦ Spots or Leaf Discoloration
Dark patches, pale areas, or irregular spots often point to fungal or bacterial issues. Improve airflow, avoid getting water on the leaves, and prune any affected foliage to keep your plant healthy.
➦ Slow Growth or Leggy Vines
Pothos may grow slowly or develop long, sparse vines if it isn’t getting enough light. Move it to a brighter spot or use a grow light. With better lighting, your plant will produce fuller, healthier vines.
Aquarium Pothos Basics
Using pothos in an aquarium is a popular way to improve water quality and add greenery above the tank. The roots grow in the water to absorb nitrates and waste, acting as a natural filter and keeping the tank cleaner with less effort.
How it Works
To get started, select a healthy, established pothos plant. Rinse the roots gently to remove any soil. Position the part of the root system in the aquarium water. Just ensure the leaves and stems remain above the surface and dry.
Make sure the plant is stable so it won’t fall in. Over time, monitor root growth and trim if necessary to prevent overgrowth. This method works well for freshwater aquariums, particularly those dealing with excess nutrients.
Pothos is hardy and adapts well to different aquarium conditions. It grows quickly, providing longer roots, fuller foliage, and both decorative and practical benefits within weeks.
Pothos Hanging Plant: Transform Any Space With Lush, Cascading Greenery
Why Hanging Pothos Stand Out
A hanging pothos instantly catches the eye with its long, draping vines. Moreover, as the stems spill over the pot, they add gentle movement and texture to any spot where you place them.
Perfect for Saving Floor Space
Because they’re displayed off the ground, hanging pothos are ideal for small rooms or apartments. This means you can enjoy vibrant greenery without sacrificing valuable floor or table space.
Stylish Placement Options
Hanging pothos works beautifully in macramé hangers, wall-mounted planters, high shelves or bookcases, and window corners or ledges. In addition, these elevated placements allow the vines to cascade freely, creating a soft, elegant look.
Flexible Growth for Easy Styling
Whether you prefer long, dramatic tendrils or a fuller, rounded shape, pothos adjust without much effort. In practice, you can simply let the vines trail to create a waterfall effect, or trim them regularly to encourage a thicker top.
Adds Depth and Greenery to Any Room
When placed up high, hanging pothos naturally pulls the eye upward, adding depth and a bit of visual lift to your décor. As a result, they work beautifully for creating a layered indoor jungle or bringing a soft touch of greenery to minimalist spaces.
FAQs about Pothos Plant
How Often to Water Pothos?
Check the top 1–2 inches of soil. Water only when it feels dry. In bright spots, you may water every week. In low light or winter, water less. Let the soil drain well and avoid leaving it soggy. Slightly drooping leaves usually mean it’s time to water.
Do Pothos like Sun or Shade?
Pothos thrive in bright, indirect light. They can handle low light but may lose variegation, and direct sun can burn the leaves.
Where to Place a Pothos Plant?
The best spot for a pothos is bright, indirect light, such as near an east- or west-facing window. They also tolerate low-light areas, making them perfect for shelves, hanging baskets, or office corners. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn.
Are Pothos Toxic to Cats?
Yes, pothos plants are mildly toxic to cats. They contain chemicals, such as calcium oxalate crystals, that can cause irritation, drooling, or vomiting if chewed. Keep your pothos out of reach of curious cats to keep them safe.
Can Pothos Live Outside?
Pothos can survive outdoors, but only in warm, frost-free climates (USDA zones 10–12). They prefer indirect sunlight and sheltered spots, as direct sunlight can scorch their leaves. In cooler areas, they are best kept indoors or in a greenhouse.
