Botanical Name and Family
Botanical Name: Epipremnum aureum Army
Family: Araceae
Botanical Characteristics
Height: Typically grows to about 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) indoors, but vines can extend several meters if given support or allowed to trail.
Shape: A trailing or climbing vine. When grown with a base or support, it can be trained to climb, making it a versatile plant for various display styles.
Leaves: Heart-shaped and glossy, with a distinctive marbled pattern. ‘Army’ variety often features a mix of dark green, light green, and sometimes yellow hues, creating a camouflage-like appearance.
Stems: Flexible and capable of climbing or trailing. The stems can adhere to surfaces or be allowed to drape, depending on how it is grown.
Flowers: Rarely flowers indoors. In its native habitat, it produces small, inconspicuous flowers with a spathe and spadix structure.
Fruits: Fruiting is uncommon indoors; in the wild, it may produce small, berry-like fruits.
Natural Habitat
Native Range: Native to tropical Southeast Asia, including parts of the Solomon Islands. It grows in the understory of tropical rainforests, climbing up trees and other vegetation to access light.
Growth Requirements
Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. Can tolerate lower light conditions, but variegation may be less pronounced and growth may slow. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.
Water: Requires moderate watering. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering in winter when the plant’s growth slows.
Soil: Prefers well-draining, peat-based potting mix. A blend of peat, perlite, and orchid bark is suitable.
Temperature: Thrives in temperatures between 65-85°F (18-29°C). Protect from temperatures below 50°F (10°C) and cold drafts.
Cultivation Methods
Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix rich in organic material. Ensure containers have good drainage to avoid waterlogging.
Watering: Water thoroughly and allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Lighting: Provide bright, indirect light. The plant can adapt to lower light conditions, but growth and color intensity may be reduced.
Care Recommendations
Propagation: Propagate through stem cuttings. Place cuttings in water or directly in moist soil after allowing them to callous over.
Fertilization: Feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 1-2 months during the growing season (spring and summer).
Pests and Diseases: Watch for pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Inspect the plant regularly and address infestations promptly. Overwatering can cause root rot.
Special Contents
Toxicity: Contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can be toxic to pets and humans if ingested. This can cause irritation to the mouth and throat. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Various Uses
Applications: Popular as an ornamental houseplant for its unique camouflage-like foliage and adaptability. Ideal for hanging baskets, as a climbing vine, or grown with a base or support to showcase its climbing ability.
Challenges and Limitations
Issues: Can become leggy if not provided with sufficient light or if not pruned regularly. Overwatering can lead to root rot, and fluoride in tap water can cause leaf tip burn. Using distilled or rainwater can help mitigate these issues.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.