How to Grow Epipremnum
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Epipremnum
Epipremnum aureum
vineEpipremnum, commonly known as pothos or devil's ivy, is a tropical vining plant with heart-shaped leaves that can grow rapidly in indoor environments. It is one of the most forgiving houseplants, thriving in various light conditions and tolerating neglect. The plant is valued for its air-purifying properties and ornamental trailing or climbing growth habit.
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Example Epipremnum timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Epipremnum
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Epipremnum
Around Apr 21≈ 4 days after planting
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in USDA zones 11b-12b; grown indoors year-round in cooler zones
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Get my Epipremnum timeline →Growth Stages
Propagation/Rooting
2-4 weeksNew cuttings developing roots in water or soil; small white roots emerge from nodes within 1-2 weeks
Keep substrate moist but not waterlogged; maintain humidity around 60-80%; provide warm temperatures (70-80°F); change water every 3-5 days if propagating in water
Establishment
3-6 weeksYoung plant with developing root system and first few sets of new leaves; active growth begins
Maintain bright, indirect light; increase watering frequency as new growth appears; provide support structure if desired; fertilize lightly every 4-6 weeks
Vegetative Growth
OngoingMature vining growth with vigorous leaf production; vines extending rapidly; leaves reaching full size and developing characteristic fenestration in some varieties
Pinch tips regularly to encourage bushier growth; provide moss pole or trellis for climbing varieties; fertilize every 2-4 weeks during growing season; monitor for pest issues
Trailing/Cascading
OngoingPlant established with long trailing vines cascading from hanging baskets or shelves; may produce aerial roots along vines
Prune occasionally to maintain desired shape and prevent legginess; aerial roots are normal; continue regular watering and feeding; rotate plant periodically for even growth
Mature
YearsFull-sized established plant with extensive vining growth; may occasionally produce small greenish flowers indoors (rare)
Maintain consistent care routine; divide or propagate if desired; prune to rejuvenate leggy growth; expect 1-3 year lifespan before major rejuvenation needed
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Increase humidity; spray with water or insecticidal soap; isolate affected plants; treat weekly until resolved
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Remove with rubbing alcohol on cotton swab; spray with insecticidal soap; treat every 7-10 days for 3-4 weeks
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Scrape off manually; apply neem oil or horticultural oil; treat every 10-14 days; isolate plant during treatment
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Allow soil to dry between waterings; use yellow sticky traps; apply hydrogen peroxide solution to soil; avoid overwatering
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Spray with water; use insecticidal soap; apply neem oil; treat every 7 days until controlled
Uses
Air Purification
HouseholdEpipremnum removes formaldehyde and other volatile organic compounds from indoor air, making it an excellent choice for improving indoor air quality in homes and offices. The plant is included in NASA's list of air-purifying houseplants. [source]
Interior Decoration
OrnamentalThe graceful trailing vines and heart-shaped leaves make epipremnum ideal for hanging baskets, shelves, or as a climbing plant on moss poles and trellises. Its compact size and low maintenance make it perfect for offices, apartments, and homes. [source]
Safe for Pets (with caution)
WildlifeWhile technically toxic if ingested, epipremnum is considered low-toxicity and rarely causes serious harm. The plant is listed as pet-safe for most situations when kept out of direct reach of curious pets. [source]
Propagation and Plant Propagation
CraftEpipremnum's ease of propagation makes it excellent for sharing with friends, starting new plants, or creating a propagation collection. Its ability to root in water makes it a favorite for propagation projects and plant swaps. [source]
Green Wall and Living Wall Systems
HouseholdEpipremnum is frequently used in living wall installations and green wall systems due to its rapid growth, adaptability, and minimal care requirements. Its trailing nature makes it ideal for vertical gardening applications. [source]
Harvest Tips
Not typically harvested; propagate by cutting 4-6 inch vine sections just below a node; root in water or moist soil; trim regularly to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove dead or yellowing leaves as needed
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Epipremnum aureum is known as 'devil's ivy' because of its resilience and nearly impossible-to-kill nature, as well as its ability to spread rapidly and take over spaces—not because of any connection to the devil
- 🌱 The plant can live for many years and grow extremely long vines (up to 40+ feet in ideal conditions), making it one of the longest-living common houseplants when properly maintained
- 🌱 Mature epipremnum plants may develop fenestrated (split or holed) leaves similar to Monstera, though this is less common indoors; some cultivars are specifically bred for this trait
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