Pothos
Epipremnum aureum
Pothos
Epipremnum aureum
Nearly indestructible trailing vine that tolerates low light and irregular watering. Perfect for beginners or anyone who wants a reliable, low-maintenance plant.
About Pothos
Native to the tropical forests of Southeast Asia, pothos is the plant you recommend to friends who have killed everything else. It tolerates low light, irregular watering, and general neglect—and still looks good doing it. The heart-shaped leaves come in various patterns, from solid green to marbled gold or white.
Low-Medium Light
Pothos handles everything from low light to bright indirect. More light means faster growth and more vivid variegation. Less light means slower growth but the plant will still thrive. Direct sun will burn the leaves, so keep it out of harsh afternoon rays.
Ideal window: North or East-facing windows work perfectly. Pothos thrives in the gentle indirect light from north windows or the softer morning sun from east windows. It can also handle spots further from south or west windows.
Note: Window direction recommendations are based on the Northern Hemisphere.
If your variegated pothos is losing its pattern and turning solid green, it needs more light. Move it closer to a window.
Moderate — Weekly
Let the top inch or two of soil dry between waterings. In a POTSPOTSPOTS planter, simply check the reservoir every 10-14 days and top up as needed. Pothos will tell you when it's thirsty—the leaves will droop dramatically. Don't panic. It recovers quickly.
Pothos tolerates average household humidity without issue. It appreciates a bit more moisture in the air, but won't suffer without it. No need for a humidifier unless you're in an unusually dry climate.
Standard — 60-80°F
Keep pothos in normal room temperatures between 60-85°F (15-29°C). It doesn't like cold drafts or temperatures below 50°F (10°C). Keep it away from air conditioning vents and exterior doors in winter.
Yellow leaves
The most common cause is overwatering. Check that the soil isn't staying soggy and that your pot has adequate drainage. Old leaves naturally yellow and drop—that's normal if it's just the oldest leaves at the base of the plant.
Leggy growth with sparse leaves
Your pothos needs more light. Move it closer to a window or add some supplemental lighting. You can also trim it back to encourage bushier growth.
Brown leaf tips
Usually indicates low humidity or inconsistent watering. Try to maintain a more regular watering schedule.
Pothos looks spectacular trailing from a high shelf, cascading from a hanging planter, or trained up a moss pole for a more upright look. The golden and marble queen varieties add brightness to darker corners. It works in nearly any room and any decor style.
Bottom Watering Compatibility
Pothos roots are robust and respond exceptionally well to bottom watering. Check reservoir every 10-14 days.