Golden Pothos (Devil's Ivy) plant photo (Epipremnum aureum)
Photo: Maria Janeiro · CC BY 4.0
houseplant
Updated May 2026·Society Islands (French Polynesia)

Golden Pothos (Devil's Ivy)

Epipremnum aureum

NASA's Clean Air Study identified pothos as one of the most effective plants for removing formaldehyde and benzene from indoor air.

USDA Zones
10-12 (indoor anywhere)
Sun
bright indirect light
Water
low
Mature Size
6-10 ft trailing vines indoors
Growth Rate
fast
Family
Araceae
Care guide

How to care for golden pothos (devil's ivy)

Tolerates neglect — water when the top inch dries out, and it bounces back from drought wilting within hours. Pinch vines back behind a node to encourage bushy growth, and propagate cuttings directly in water within 2 weeks.

Garden uses & design ideas

Best garden use

Use it as a living focal point near a bright window, then repeat leaf shapes with smaller companion plants so the room feels intentional.

Pair it with

Snake plant, ZZ plant, Philodendron make easy companion choices because they share similar light, water, or visual texture needs.

Layout tip

Match it with bright indirect light exposure, group it with other low-water plants so one irrigation zone can stay lean, and check USDA zones 10-12 (indoor anywhere) before planting. Use the garden planner to test spacing around its mature size: 6-10 ft trailing vines indoors.

Gardener note — Double-check local invasive, edible, and toxicity guidance with your county extension office before planting around pets, children, or natural areas.

Companion plants

Golden Pothos (Devil's Ivy) grows well alongside these — similar light, water, and texture needs.

Common pests & problems

mealybugsspider mitesscale

Where it grows best

Native to Society Islands (French Polynesia); thrives in USDA hardiness zones 10-12 (indoor anywhere).

Frequently asked about golden pothos (devil's ivy)

What USDA zones does Golden Pothos (Devil's Ivy) grow in?+

Golden Pothos (Devil's Ivy) is hardy in USDA zones 10-12 (indoor anywhere). Outside these zones, it can usually be grown indoors or as a seasonal annual.

How much sun does Golden Pothos (Devil's Ivy) need?+

Golden Pothos (Devil's Ivy) prefers bright indirect light. Place it where it gets that light most of the day for best growth and vigor.

How often should I water Golden Pothos (Devil's Ivy)?+

Golden Pothos (Devil's Ivy) has low water needs. Allow the soil to dry between waterings. Tolerates neglect — water when the top inch dries out, and it bounces back from drought wilting within hours. Pinch vines back behind a node to encourage bushy growth, and propagate cuttings directly in water within 2 weeks.

How big does Golden Pothos (Devil's Ivy) get?+

Golden Pothos (Devil's Ivy) reaches a mature size of 6-10 ft trailing vines indoors. Growth rate is fast, so plan spacing accordingly when planting.

What plants grow well with Golden Pothos (Devil's Ivy)?+

Golden Pothos (Devil's Ivy) pairs well with Snake plant, ZZ plant, Philodendron, Spider plant. These companions share similar care requirements and don't compete aggressively for resources.

What pests affect Golden Pothos (Devil's Ivy)?+

Common Golden Pothos (Devil's Ivy) problems include mealybugs; spider mites; scale. Catching early signs in routine inspection prevents most damage.

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