Epipremnum aureum ‘Neon’ (Neon Pothos) Care & Growing Guide
Overview
Epipremnum aureum ‘Neon’, commonly known as the Neon Pothos, is a striking cultivar of the popular pothos plant, prized for its vivid chartreuse foliage. Native to Southeast Asia and parts of Australia, this tropical evergreen vine thrives as a low-maintenance houseplant. Its luminous leaves have earned it the nickname “Living Highlighter”, making it a favorite among indoor gardeners seeking a bold pop of color.
Like other pothos varieties, the Neon Pothos is adaptable and forgiving. It can be grown in hanging baskets, trained up supports, or allowed to trail from shelves, making it suitable for a variety of indoor spaces.
Identification & Growth Habit
The Neon Pothos is easily identified by its solid, bright yellow-green leaves, which are typically heart-shaped and smooth-textured. Unlike variegated pothos varieties, the ‘Neon’ displays a uniform color across each leaf, intensifying in brighter light.
This plant has a trailing and climbing growth habit. In the wild, it can climb tree trunks using aerial roots. Indoors, it can be trained up a moss pole or trellis, or allowed to cascade naturally. Mature vines can reach several feet in length, though regular pruning can keep them compact.
Light & Placement
For best color, place your Neon Pothos in bright, indirect light. A spot near an east- or north-facing window, or a few feet back from a south- or west-facing window with sheer curtains, is ideal.
- Bright, indirect light: Maintains vibrant neon foliage.
- Medium light: Plant will survive, but color may dull.
- Low light: Not recommended for long-term vibrancy; growth will slow.
Avoid direct midday sun, which can scorch the leaves.
Watering & Humidity
Water when the top 2–3 inches of soil have dried out. Use a pot with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging and root rot. In general, this means watering every 1–2 weeks, but frequency will vary with temperature, light, and pot size.
Humidity: Average household humidity is adequate, but higher humidity (via a humidifier or pebble tray) can encourage faster, lusher growth. Avoid placing the plant near heating vents or cold drafts.
Soil & Repotting
Use a well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter. A blend of peat moss, perlite, and compost works well. This ensures adequate aeration while retaining enough moisture for the roots.
Repot every 1–2 years, or when roots begin to circle the pot. Spring is the best time to repot, as the plant enters its active growth phase.
Fertilizing
Feed your Neon Pothos monthly during the growing season (spring through summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Reduce or stop fertilizing in fall and winter when growth naturally slows.
Over-fertilizing can cause leaf burn or salt buildup in the soil, so follow label instructions carefully.
Pruning & Training
Pruning helps maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove any damaged or yellowing leaves. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruners, cutting just above a node.
Training on Supports
- Moss pole: Encourages larger leaves and vertical growth.
- Trellis: Creates a decorative display and supports climbing habit.
- Hanging basket: Allows natural trailing and cascading form.
Propagation
Neon Pothos is easy to propagate from stem cuttings. Here's a step-by-step guide:
- Select a healthy vine and cut a 4–6 inch section just below a node (where a leaf meets the stem).
- Ensure each cutting has at least one node and one or two leaves.
- Remove the leaf closest to the cut end to expose the node.
- Water method: Place the cutting in a jar of clean water, ensuring the node is submerged. Change the water every few days until roots are 1–2 inches long, then pot in soil.
- Soil method: Plant the cutting directly into moist, well-draining soil. Keep humidity high until new growth appears.
Common Problems
Pests
- Spider mites: Look for fine webbing and speckled leaves. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Mealybugs: White, cottony masses on stems and leaves. Remove manually and treat with horticultural oil.
- Scale insects: Brown, shell-like bumps. Scrape off gently and apply insecticidal treatment.
Diseases
- Root rot: Caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Remove affected roots and repot in fresh soil.
- Leaf spot: Brown or black spots may indicate fungal issues. Remove affected leaves and improve air circulation.
Toxicity & Pet Safety
Neon Pothos is toxic to cats, dogs, and humans if ingested, due to insoluble calcium oxalates. Keep out of reach of pets and children. Ingestion may cause oral irritation and discomfort.
Styling & Decor Tips
- Place in a hanging planter to showcase trailing vines.
- Train up a moss pole for a vertical accent in living rooms or offices.
- Pair with plants of contrasting leaf color for visual interest.
- Use in bright kitchens or bathrooms where humidity is higher.
Varieties & Cultivars
While ‘Neon’ is a distinct cultivar of Epipremnum aureum, other popular pothos varieties include:
- Golden Pothos – green leaves with yellow variegation.
- Marble Queen – creamy white and green marbled foliage.
- Jade Pothos – solid deep green leaves.
Buying Tips & Maturity
When purchasing a Neon Pothos, look for plants with firm, evenly colored leaves and no signs of pests. Avoid plants with yellowing or wilting foliage. Younger plants may have smaller leaves; with proper care and support, mature plants can produce larger, more robust foliage.
Seasonal Care
- Spring/Summer: Active growth period. Increase watering frequency, fertilize monthly, and consider repotting if root-bound.
- Fall/Winter: Growth slows. Reduce watering and stop fertilizing. Keep away from cold drafts and maintain adequate light.
FAQ
- How fast does Neon Pothos grow? In optimal conditions, it can grow several feet in a year, especially during spring and summer.
- Can Neon Pothos live in water permanently? It can survive in water for extended periods but will grow more vigorously in soil.
- Why are my Neon Pothos leaves losing color? Likely due to insufficient light; move the plant to a brighter, indirect light location.
- Should I mist my Neon Pothos? Misting is optional; it can temporarily raise humidity but is not essential if household humidity is average.
- Can I grow Neon Pothos outdoors? In frost-free climates, it can be grown outdoors in shaded areas, but protect from direct harsh sun.
