Pothos is the quintessential easy-care houseplant. This looker is adaptable and can comfortably live in various conditions, making it a good choice for inexperienced plant owners. The glossy heart-shaped leaves grow along continuous vines, giving this plant some serious drama and visual interest. Formally known as Epipremnum aureum, the Golden Pothos is just one cultivar of this low-maintenance genus. 

Golden Hour

The Golden Pothos is a charmer that features predominately green leaves with streaks of golden yellow. The variegation is unique to each leaf, with some boasting bold yellow glimmers while others are completely dark green. The Golden cultivar is easy to grow, and mature plants can reach a staggering 15 feet long with proper Pothos care. 

Pothos are vigorous growers and are considered invasive as outdoor plants in some areas. Their resilient nature and ability to thrive in less than stellar conditions inspired the sinister-sounding nickname, Devil’s Ivy. Pothos can only grow outdoors in zones 10 through 12 and is often found as a houseplant. Learn what this beauty needs to thrive.

Light Requirements

Give your Golden Pothos a spot near a sunny window for the best results. This leafy plant prefers bright indirect sunlight. Direct light will scorch the foliage, so hang sheer curtains or move the plant back from a south-facing window. 

Pothos can grow in medium light, but increased light is ideal for the Golden cultivar. Anything less than bright indirect light may cause the leaves to lose some of the golden accents, and the plant will still look lovely, but it will look like a Green Queen Pothos. Plants grown in low light can also become leggy, meaning large gaps form between the leaves. Increase the light if your plant becomes leggy. Rotate the pot a quarter turn when you water the Pothos to ensure each side receives sunlight.

Water Requirements

Pothos like consistent moisture when the top few inches of soil are dry. The leaves will droop and curl if the plant is underwatered. Overwatered plants develop yellow and brown tips. Light and humidity impact how quickly the soil dries out, but generally, plan to water Golden Pothos weekly or every week-and-a-half during the growing season. Let the soil dry out more during the winter and water dormant plants about every other week.

Soil Needs

Give Golden Pothos rich, moist, well-drained soil. Most commercial potting mixes work well. Drainage is vital. As easy-going as Pothos houseplants are, they cannot live in soggy soil. The soil must allow water to pass, and the plant pot must have drainage holes.

Temperature Requirements

Pothos are tropical plants, so they like warm conditions. Temperatures between 65° to 85° F are comfortable. Do right by the plant by keeping it away from heating or cooling vents.

Anything below 60° F is bad news, so if you move your Golden Pothos to a covered porch or outdoor space in the summer, monitor the temperature before making the move.

Humidity Levels

Average to above-average humidity is best for Golden Pothos houseplants. The foliage stays lush and vibrant in high humidity, but these plants live comfortably in average humidity. Low humidity, under 50%, can be challenging, and Pothos houseplants may fail to thrive in dry air. Help the plants by using a humidifier or pebble tray if the humidity is low.

Pothos Fertilizer

Pothos are not heavy feeders, but they respond well to regular feedings. Fertilize Golden Pothos using balanced, water-soluble plant food. Apply fertilizer every two to four weeks during the spring and summer when the plant is actively growing.

Does Golden Pothos Bloom?

Golden Pothos houseplants do not bloom. However, Pothos grown outdoors in suitable climates can bloom. Pothos can comfortably live indoors, but the conditions in most homes are not what this plant needs to set flowers.

When to Repot Golden Pothos 

Repot Golden Pothos each year or two as needed. Plants that receive excellent care will proliferate and may require a new container and fresh soil annually. Pothos grown in medium light may be content with an upgrade every other year. Choose a larger container so the roots have space to grow.

Golden Pothos Propagation

Pothos are some of the easiest plants to propagate. Cuttings can root in soil or water. Soil-propagated cuttings must be kept damp for several weeks until the plant sets roots. The cutting has roots if you feel resistance when gently tugging on the cutting. Once the new plant has roots, you can water it when the top few inches of soil are dry.

Give water-propagated cuttings fresh water every week. Roots should emerge in a couple of weeks. The cutting can be moved to soil when the roots are at least one inch long. Keep the soil damp for the first week or two to help the new plant acclimate to the soil before switching to a watering routine for an established plant.

Is Golden Pothos Pet Safe?

Golden Pothos are not pet safe. Pothos contain insoluble calcium oxalates, which cause oral swelling and irritation, and vomiting if chewed or ingested. Reconsider bringing this plant into your home if you have pets, especially if those pets have a history of nibbling on houseplants.

Golden Pothos Styling Tips

Pothos are versatile when it comes to plant styling. Let the stems spill from a shelf or plant hanger, or keep the stems trimmed for a bushier appearance. The stems are teeming with glossy variegated foliage, creating a dense curtain of greenery, so let the plant trail or give it a moss pole or trellis to climb.

Golden Pothos Care Tips

Pothos are incredibly easy to care for houseplants, and the Golden Pothos lives up to this well-earned reputation. Give your Pothos a good spot, get into an easy routine, and your plant will thrive. Periodically rinse the plant in a sink or tub to remove dust to enjoy the lovely golden variegation.