Scindapsus aureus, also known as devil's ivy or pothos, is a
carefree, low light plant perfect for the top of a cupboard, shelf,
refrigerator or cabinet. This is actually a very good location for
pothos, since it is considered poisonous to humans and pets.
I've grown it for years with no problems on the top of my china
cabinet, but again, it's out of reach. There are many plants
that we grow inside and outside that are toxic on different levels,
so it's always important to watch the kids especially and teach
them never to chew or play with plants. I grow a lot of herbs and
other edible plants but my kids always ask me before picking
anything in the yard. It's a good habit to start very early on
with children.
Back to pothos, it needs medium to bright light, but not direct
sunlight. It will tolerate low light, but grows better with at least
medium light. The soil should be kept evenly moist, but a little
drying is fine for the winter, and mist often. It's comfortable in
60-85 degree temperature range.
Pothos makes a great hanging
plant as well, just remember to put it up a little higher and out
of reach. I also found out that it will work as an aquarium plant!
They are usually quite expensive when bought from a tropical fish
store, but if you clip off the plant above the dirt level and wash it to
remove any pesticides the store may have used, you can float it in
your fish tank.
Root cuttings can be taken at any time and placed in a glass of
clean water, which you should change every few days. When a
good set of roots form, plant in regular soil with a little sand
added. I've also seen people grow pothos in a glass vase with
marbles in the bottom for a decorative look. My mother-in-law
added goldfish to her vase! Remember, especially with these
methods, to keep the vase or glass out of the sunlight.
About the author:
Brenda Hyde is editor of Old Fashioned Living and a
freelance writer living in the Midwest with her husband
and three children.
