How to Grow Devil's Ivy
Wikimedia Commons
Devil's Ivy
Scindapsus aureus (syn. Epipremnum aureum)
vineDevil's Ivy is a tropical climbing or trailing vine with heart-shaped, glossy leaves that often feature variegation in shades of green and gold or white. It is renowned for its air-purifying qualities and exceptional hardiness, thriving in a wide range of indoor conditions. This fast-growing plant is among the easiest houseplants to cultivate and propagate.
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Example Devil's Ivy timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Devil's Ivy
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 Devil's Ivy
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →USDA zones 10b-12; best grown indoors in cooler climates
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Get my Devil's Ivy timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
2-4 weeksNew cuttings or young plants developing root systems and initial leaf growth
Maintain warm conditions (70-80°F), high humidity, and consistent moisture; mist regularly; provide bright indirect light
Vegetative Growth
Ongoing during warm monthsVigorous stem elongation with new leaves emerging regularly; vines extend along support or trail from containers
Fertilize monthly during growing season (spring/summer) with balanced liquid fertilizer; provide trellis, moss pole, or hanging space; prune to shape and encourage bushiness
Mature Growth
Several months to yearsPlant reaches desired size with established vining structure; leaves reach full size (2-4 inches long) with characteristic heart shape
Continue monthly feeding during growing season; occasional trimming maintains shape; rotate plant for even growth if near window
Dormancy/Slow Growth
3-4 monthsReduced growth rate during fall and winter months; leaf emergence slows
Reduce watering frequency; withhold or reduce fertilizer; maintain temperatures above 60°F; reduce misting
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; wipe leaves with rubbing alcohol-soaked cotton swabs; isolate infected plant
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Increase humidity through misting; spray with water to dislodge; apply neem oil or miticide if severe
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Remove manually with soft brush; treat with horticultural oil or neem oil; monitor regularly
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Allow soil to dry between waterings; use yellow sticky traps; apply mosquito bits or sand to soil surface
Uses
Air Purification
HouseholdScindapsus is recognized by NASA studies as an effective air-purifying plant, removing formaldehyde and other toxins from indoor air. It helps create a healthier indoor environment. [source]
Indoor Decoration & Space Coverage
HouseholdIts trailing or climbing growth habit makes it ideal for covering walls, hanging baskets, bookshelves, and creating living wall displays. The variegated foliage adds visual interest to any interior space. [source]
Tropical Habitat Recreation
WildlifeIn outdoor tropical settings, Devil's Ivy attracts hummingbirds and insects. It creates dense foliage that provides shelter for small animals. [source]
Propagation & Plant Sharing
CraftExtremely easy to propagate from cuttings, making it perfect for sharing with friends and family. A single leaf node can generate a new plant, making it an economical way to expand your plant collection. [source]
Traditional Folk Remedy
MedicinalIn traditional Southeast Asian medicine, Scindapsus has been used to treat various ailments, though scientific evidence is limited. Modern research focuses on its phytochemicals. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Not a harvest plant; instead, propagate by taking 4-6 inch stem cuttings just below a leaf node. Place cuttings in water or moist soil; roots develop in 1-2 weeks in water, 2-3 weeks in soil. Pinch back growing tips regularly to encourage bushier, fuller growth and prevent leggy appearance.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Devil's Ivy earned its name because it is nearly impossible to kill—it's so resilient and persistent that it seems 'devilishly' difficult to destroy, even in neglectful conditions.
- 🌱 Scindapsus can grow up to 3-6 feet per year under ideal conditions indoors, and can eventually reach lengths of 40+ feet in tropical outdoor environments.
- 🌱 The plant is toxic to cats and dogs if ingested, causing mouth irritation and digestive upset; keep away from pets and children, though it is generally safe for human handling.
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