Scindapsus – Pothos / Devils Ivy
Highly recommended easy care plant. Scindapsis are large leaved climbers with heart shaped leaves. Scindapsis Aureus, Neon, Marble Queen and Pictus are the more readily grown and make great specimens climbing up a moss pole or trailing from a hang basket. Another family of plants highly recognised for their air purifying qualities, NASA has it in their top 3.
Adapts well to low light levels, however bright, indirect light will give the best growth and leaf colour.
Water thoroughly in warmer months, then allow the top 2-3cms of the soil to dry between watering.
Average to warm room temperatures between 18-29c are best.
Fertilise once a month with a balanced foliage liquid feed as per instructions.
In Winter, when growth is slow, reduce watering. Happy to be kept cooler but try to keep above 14-15c. Do not fertilise.
If grown as a climber then it will need a means of support, either a moss pole or canes are common. Scindapsis produce aerial roots that attach to the surface of the support, if growing on a moss pole regular misting of the moss pole benefits the plant. If grown as a hanger then misting the leaves benefits humidity and keeps the plant clean. Can be pruned to any given length or height.
Re-pot in Spring when necessary, only use a slightly larger pot, a big pot with too much compost will hold too much water.
Common leaf problems are brown tips indicating dry air, or yellow leaves too much water.
Contains raphides, crystals of calcium oxalate, to deter livestock from eating them. Therefore problematic to pets and humans if consumed. Causes irritation and swelling in the mouth. Best practice is to keep out of reach.
