Scindapsus, Golden Pothos

Epipremnum pinnatum (L.) Engl.

ep-ee-PREM-num  pin-AY-tum

Araceae

Explanation of name: Epipremnum means growing up on trees. Pinnatum means pinnate, or shaped like a feather, probably a reference to the leaf veins.

Synonyms (see KAR):

Epipremnum aureum (Linden ex André) Bunting, Ann. Missouri Bot. Gard. 1. 28. 1964.

Pothos aureus Linden ex André

Scindapsus aureus (Linden & André) Engl.

Natural range: Solomon Islands 

Recognition: Rampant climbing vine having adventitious roots along the grooved stem, with leaf blades cordate or ovate, highly variable in size (from a few inches long to over a foot long) with marbled creamy-yellow variegation, the bases sheathing. The net-veined leaves distinguish Epipremnum from species of Philodendron, which have parallel veins.

Landscape uses (with data from UFFPS194, PBCC): Often seen climbing tall palms or on pines or covering the ground. Easily rooted and popular as a container plant, especially in hanging baskets, and it serves well indoors. Use outdoors is not recommended, as this species is listed as a Category II invasive exotic by the Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council, and see LA2.  DAV mentions propagation using leaf cuttings. According to a NASA study, this species removed formaldehyde contamination from indoor air.   There are multiple cultivars, some of them silvery or predominantly green: 'Silver Splash' (popular for interiorscaping in low light), 'Silver Satin' and 'Jade'.   'Marble Queen' is a traditional widespread cultivar with the yellow-creamy variegation.