Epipremnum aureum ‘Pearls and Jade’ Care & Growing Guide

Overview

Epipremnum aureum ‘Pearls and Jade’, commonly known as the Pearls and Jade Pothos, is a compact, variegated cultivar of the popular pothos plant. Native in origin to the South Pacific, this variety was developed by the University of Florida for its ornamental foliage and tidy growth habit. Its green leaves are splashed with white and silvery-gray variegation, making it a striking choice for indoor plant collections. Like other pothos, it is adaptable and relatively easy to care for, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced plant enthusiasts.

Identification & Growth Habit

The Pearls and Jade Pothos is characterized by small to medium-sized leaves with irregular patches of creamy white and soft gray variegation over a green base. The variegation is typically concentrated along the leaf margins. This cultivar grows more slowly than standard golden pothos and has a more compact, bushy form. It can trail from hanging baskets or climb when given support such as a moss pole or trellis.

In its natural habitat, pothos species are climbing vines that attach to trees and surfaces with aerial roots. Indoors, you can train Pearls and Jade to climb for larger leaves or let it cascade for a softer look.

Light & Placement

Provide bright, indirect light to maintain the plant’s variegation. A north- or east-facing window is ideal, or place it a few feet back from a bright south- or west-facing window with sheer curtains to diffuse direct rays. Direct midday sun can scorch the thin leaves, while too little light can cause variegation to fade and growth to slow.

• Ideal placement: Near bright windows without harsh direct sun.
• Avoid: Dark corners or prolonged exposure to strong midday sunlight.

Watering & Humidity

Water when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry. Check moisture with your finger or a moisture meter. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure excess water drains freely from the pot.

• Spring/Summer: Water more frequently as growth is active.
• Fall/Winter: Reduce watering to match slower growth rates.

This plant thrives in moderate to high humidity. If indoor air is dry, increase humidity by misting occasionally, using a humidifier, or grouping plants together. Ideal temperatures range from 65–85°F (18–29°C), and the plant should be kept away from cold drafts or heat sources.

Soil & Repotting

Use a well-draining potting mix that retains some moisture. A blend of peat moss, perlite, and standard potting soil works well. Always choose a container with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.

Repot every 1–2 years or when roots begin to circle the pot. Because Pearls and Jade grows slowly, it may not require frequent repotting compared to other pothos varieties.

Fertilizing

Feed monthly during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer formulated for houseplants. Follow the manufacturer’s dosage instructions. Suspend feeding during fall and winter when growth naturally slows.

Pruning & Training

Prune to control length, encourage bushier growth, and remove any yellowing or damaged leaves. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruners to make cuts just above a node.

Training on Supports

• Moss pole: Encourages vertical growth and larger leaves.
• Trellis: Offers decorative structure for climbing stems.
• Hanging basket: Allows natural trailing habit.

Propagation

Pearls and Jade Pothos is easy to propagate via stem cuttings. Follow these steps:

1. Select a healthy stem with at least two nodes (the small bumps where leaves and roots grow).
2. Cut just below a node using sterilized scissors.
3. Remove the lower leaf to expose the node.
4. Place the cutting in a jar of water or directly into moist potting mix.
5. If rooting in water, change the water every few days to keep it fresh.
6. Once roots are 1–2 inches long, transplant water-rooted cuttings into soil.

Common Problems

Pests

• Spider mites: Look for fine webbing and speckled leaves. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Mealybugs: White cottony clusters on stems/leaves. Remove manually and treat with horticultural oil.
• Scale insects: Brown bumps on stems. Scrape off gently and use systemic insecticide if needed.

Diseases

• Root rot: Caused by overwatering and poor drainage. Remove affected roots and repot in fresh, well-draining soil.
• Leaf spot: Brown or black spots may indicate fungal or bacterial issues; remove affected leaves and improve air circulation.

Toxicity & Pet Safety

Pearls and Jade Pothos is toxic if ingested by pets or humans due to calcium oxalate crystals. Keep out of reach of cats, dogs, and children. Symptoms in pets may include drooling, pawing at the mouth, and vomiting. Contact a veterinarian if ingestion occurs.

Styling & Decor Tips

• Display in a hanging planter to showcase trailing vines.
• Train up a moss pole for a lush, vertical accent.
• Pair with contrasting foliage plants to highlight variegation.
• Use decorative cachepots to match interior style.

Varieties & Cultivars

‘Pearls and Jade’ is a distinct cultivar of Epipremnum aureum. Other popular pothos varieties include:

• Golden Pothos – Green leaves with golden-yellow variegation.
• Marble Queen – Creamy white marbled variegation.
• N’Joy – Smaller leaves with crisp white variegation.

Buying Tips & Maturity

When selecting a Pearls and Jade Pothos, look for plants with vibrant, well-defined variegation and no signs of pests or disease. Check that the soil is not overly wet. This cultivar grows slowly, so patience is required for mature, full plants. With proper care, it can live for many years indoors.

Seasonal Care

• Spring/Summer: Active growth; increase watering frequency, fertilize monthly, and consider pruning for shape.
• Fall/Winter: Growth slows; reduce watering and stop fertilizing. Ensure adequate light during shorter days.

FAQ

• How fast does Pearls and Jade Pothos grow? It grows more slowly than other pothos varieties, often producing new leaves every few weeks under ideal conditions.
• Can it grow in low light? It can survive in low light but may lose variegation and grow more slowly. Bright, indirect light is best.
• Should I mist my plant? Occasional misting can help in dry environments, but it’s not essential if humidity is moderate.
• Why are my leaves turning yellow? Common causes include overwatering, poor drainage, or sudden changes in light or temperature.
• Can I grow it outdoors? In warm, frost-free climates, it can be grown outdoors in shaded areas, but it is most often kept as a houseplant.

Source: The Spruce