Overview
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is one of the most popular houseplants for good reason — it tolerates neglect, thrives in low light, and grows quickly. Perfect for beginners and seasoned plant parents alike.
Light
Pothos adapts to almost any light condition, but grows fastest in bright, indirect light. It will survive in low light, but variegated varieties may lose their markings.
- Ideal: Bright indirect light
- Tolerated: Low light (fluorescent works fine)
- Avoid: Direct harsh sunlight, which can scorch leaves
Watering
Water when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry. Pothos is very drought-tolerant and recovers easily from under-watering. Over-watering is the most common cause of problems.
- Allow soil to dry partially between waterings
- Reduce watering in winter
- Yellow leaves often indicate over-watering
Soil & Potting
Use a well-draining potting mix. Standard potting soil works well. Repot every 1–2 years or when roots start emerging from drainage holes.
Fertilizing
Feed monthly during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer. No feeding needed in winter when growth slows.
Common Issues
Problem
Yellow leaves
Cause
Over-watering
Problem
Brown tips
Cause
Low humidity or inconsistent watering
Problem
Leggy growth
Cause
Insufficient light
Problem
Loss of variegation
Cause
Too little light
Tips
- Pothos is toxic to pets — keep out of reach
- Propagate easily in water by snipping stem sections with a node
- Wipe leaves occasionally to remove dust
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why are my pothos leaves turning yellow?
A: Yellow leaves on pothos are almost always caused by over-watering. Allow the top 1–2 inches of soil to dry out before watering again. Less commonly, yellow leaves can result from too much direct sunlight or nutrient deficiency.
Q: Can pothos grow in low light?
A: Yes. Pothos is one of the most low-light tolerant houseplants available. It will survive in dim conditions but grows fastest in bright indirect light. Note that variegated varieties may lose their markings in very low light.
Q: Is pothos toxic to cats and dogs?
A: Yes. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is toxic to cats and dogs if ingested, causing mouth irritation, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. Keep it out of reach of pets or choose a pet-safe alternative.