How to Grow and Care for Hawaiian Pothos

If you’re new to growing houseplants and want to start your collection with a gentle look, you can’t go wrong with the popular pothos. These vines are easy to find, require little care, and can grow in low light conditions. Yellow pothos, a variegated yellow variety, is one of the more readily available species, but there are many varieties to choose from, including Hawaiian pothos (Epipremnum aureum “Hawaiian”).

You may have to look harder for this less common variety, but it’s worth it if you’re a pothos lover. It still has the shiny, heart-shaped foliage reminiscent of golden pothos, but the difference in color sets it apart. The larger leaves have pale creamy yellow spots compared to the darker yellow yellow leaves. Even when it darkens under high light levels, it rarely reaches the deep yellow hue of the more common variety.

Thanks to its climbing propensity, you can place this species on a shelf and let the leaves slide beautifully over it, or train it to climb onto a trellis or pole. If you live in hardiness zones where pothos can survive outdoors year-round, it can become invasive if planted as a ground cover. However, research shows that pothos is one of the most effective indoor air purifying plants. Just keep it out of reach of curious kittens and dogs; Pothos is toxic to pets.

Hawaiian Pothos Care

Hawaiian pothos is notoriously difficult to kill, so even brown-toed houseplant lovers might be interested in this species. To see the best colorful varieties in bright conditions but without direct sunlight, be mindful of overwatering and shake the vines regularly to avoid matting and poor air circulation between leaves.

Light
A big plus of the Hawaiian pothos is its ability to survive in a wide range of lighting conditions. It is a popular plant for bathrooms because of its ability to tolerate shaded areas. But to ensure the plant grows healthy and produces a variety of impressive flowers, place it in a location that receives plenty of, but indirect, light. Too little light can cause the plant to turn a less attractive shade of green, and leaves may become discolored when exposed to direct sunlight.

Although Hawaiian pothos does not like prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, it requires slightly brighter conditions than yellow pothos to develop the most varied colors.

Earth
Hawaiian pothos is not picky about potting soil as long as you choose soil that drains well. Wet feet are unacceptable for this plant. So if you only have heavy soil, try adding some perlite, peat moss or more resilient coir to improve drainage. If all you have is a dry ice mixture, your potholes won’t complain.

Water
Overwatering is the most common cause of death of Hawaiian pothos. These plants can handle a little neglect, but standing water will cause the roots to rot. Allow the soil to dry completely before watering. Don’t check visually; stick your finger directly into the soil or use a moisture meter to be sure. If the plant’s leaves begin to fall off, it may be a sign that the plant is thirsty. If you wait too long, the shiny leaves may dry out and turn brown around the edges.

Temperature and humidity
If your home doesn’t get very cold during the winter months, a Hawaiian poto will do just fine. They thrive in temperatures between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit, but survive in temperatures as low as 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

However, these tropical plants do not like dry air. If you can’t maintain 50 to 70 percent humidity, buy a humidifier or add a gravel tray filled with water under the plant.

Fertilizers
If you are growing Hawaiian pothos in a potting mix rich in organic matter, this may be ok because they are not much of an eater. However, if you want glossy foliage and fast growth, it is worth feeding the plant several times a month during the growing season. Any balanced houseplant fertilizer diluted to half will work, or you can try a natural option such as fish emulsion.

Cut
You won’t have to use Hawaiian pothos pruners regularly. Typically, you only need to prune these fast-growing plants if the vines become too long for your space. Remove any yellowing or dead leaves to ensure all the energy and nutrients are transferred to healthy foliage.

Propagating Hawaiian Pothos

Pothos are the perfect plant to give as gifts to friends and family. Not only can they be cared for by anyone, but they are also extremely easy to propagate from cuttings. For the best chance of success, try the following in water or soil in the spring or summer:

Trim branches from healthy stems using sharp, sterile scissors or scissors. The cuttings must have at least three leaves.
Cut the leaf at the bottom of the stem to expose the node (the small bump from which aerial roots grow).
Place the cuttings in a tall, clear vase or pot with fresh water and well-drained potting mix. Be sure to completely submerge the bottom button in water or soil.
Place the cutting in a warm location where it will receive bright but indirect light.
Change the water weekly or keep the soil moist but not soggy.
Watch for the formation of new roots. Once they have grown a few inches in water, transfer the cuttings to a pot filled with potting mix. You will know that roots are forming in the soil if you gently pull on the stem and it does not budge.
Planting and replanting Hawaiian pothos
The fast-growing Hawaiian Pothos does not like to have its roots crushed. So watch for signs that it has been potted. These include roots starting to protrude from the drainage hole, foliage wilting regardless of whether you provide additional water, or water running straight through the potting mix without being absorbed.

Choose a pot one or two sizes larger in diameter and depth. Be sure to fill in fresh, rich soil instead of trying to recycle old soil, and be careful not to damage the plant’s roots. You may need to replant every year if the plant is mature and healthy.

Common plant pests and diseases
Luckily, your Hawaiian pothos doesn’t seem to be bothered by many pests. However, if you overwater or overfeed your plants, they can become susceptible to mealybugs. Fortunately, treating plants with insecticidal soap or a biodegradable soapy water mixture helps eliminate these pests.

Common Problems with Hawaiian Pothos
Hawaiian pothos may be one of the easiest houseplants to care for, but that doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be neglected. Finding the first signs that you need to change the way you care for your plant can help prevent it from dying prematurely.
Black spot
Before your plant develops root rot due to overwatering, you may see black spots marring the beautiful foliage. This is a good sign: it’s time to let the plant dry out significantly.

Brown tips
Although your Hawaiian pothos is somewhat drought tolerant and likes to dry out between waterings, you may notice the tips and edges of the leaves turning brown and curling if they go a long time without watering.