Devil’s ivy, with the scientific name Epipremnum aureum, is among the favorites of plant lovers because it adds appeal to a room or patio. It is also called golden pothos or pothos and this tropical evergreen vine is native to the Solomon Islands. It is considered a hardy plant since it withstands varying temperatures. It freezes to the ground during winter but often resprouts during springtime.
How to propagate devil’s ivy?
Below are the steps on how to propagate devil’s ivy:
1. First, look for a little bump behind the spot where the leaf meets the stem. It is an indication of an aerial root and the spot where the new plant’s roots will grow from.
2. Make a cut above and below one of the embryonic roots. Each of the cuttings should contain at least one root and one leaf. A meter of vine can make six cuttings.
3. Place the cuttings in a jar of water and put them in an area with indirect sunlight. Change and refill the water periodically. The cuttings should be balanced so the leaves are not underwater to prevent rot.
4. White roots will start to tangle after a couple of weeks and this will depend on the time of the year. Just leave them as is and let the roots grow until there is almost no water in the jar. However, do not leave the cuttings out for so long.
Plant the cuttings in pots with a potting mix. You may opt to spray them with a liquid seaweed fertilizer for growth development.
5. Water the propagated cuttings when the soil is dry. Devil’s ivy plant prefers dry soil. To check, poke your finger into it up to the second knuckle. Do not water if you detect moisture.
Check the soil every week but if your region is hot or dry, check it more often. As with other plants, devil’s ivy exhibits yellowing on the margins of leaves if over or underwatered.
6. Fertilize the plants during springtime and give them plenty water when fertilized. When possible, let the newly-propagated plants experience rain. Sponge the dust off the leaves every few weeks.
Common names and varieties of Devil’s ivy
These are some of the common names of Devil’s ivy:
- Ceylon creeper
- Ivy arum
- Money plant
- Solomon Islands ivy
- Taro vine
- Hunter’s robe
Common varieties
- Marble Queen pothos
- Golden pothos
- Jessenia pothos
- Manjula pothos
- Pearls and jade pothos
Benefits and disadvantages of Devil’s ivy
Devil’s ivy adds aesthetic value to your home as it looks great as a hanging plant. It purifies the air of formaldehyde, xylene, benzene and trichloroethylene, which are all known air pollutants. It is quick to propagate the plant and grows well in a hydroponic setting. Some gardeners use it for aquaponics.
However, this plant also has a disadvantage since it is toxic to pets. Put it out of reach of your furry friends.
Other basic information about the Devil’s ivy plant
Devil’s ivy is a fast-growing vine and in landscapes, it could grow up to 40 feet. If the plant is grown indoors it could reach up to eight feet. It produces heart-shaped and waxy foliage variegated with bright green and yellow.
The size of the leaves will depend on where the plant is cultivated. If grown outdoors, leaves could reach up to 30 inches while indoors it is four inches. When planted outdoors, the vine produces an erect, six-inch green spathe surrounding small flowers.
Devil’s ivy thrives in various soil conditions ranging from acidic to alkaline and tolerates moisture. If grown in pots, the plant thrives well in an all-purpose and peaty potting mix that is also fast-draining. The vine is drought-resistant. Water it at least once a week but during winter reduce it to once every two weeks.
This charming vine grows well in partial to full shade outdoors. However, it grows slowly if planted in shady areas and the foliage tends to lose its variegation. If grown indoors, place the plant in areas with bright artificial light. Feed the plant with a general-purpose liquid houseplant fertilizer and follow label directions.
Conclusion
Devil’s ivy is a popular houseplant that looks good as a hanging plant indoors or as a landscape plant. It is easy to propagate and care for as indicated in the process mentioned in this article. It is also known as the money plant and golden pothos and is a hardy plant since it is drought-resistant.
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