Jade pothos and golden pothos are two popular varieties of the Epipremnum aureum plant, also known as pothos or devil’s ivy. While they are similar in many ways, there are a few key differences between these two varieties that set them apart. In this guide, we’ll explore the differences between jade pothos and golden pothos, including their appearance, growth habits, and care requirements. By understanding the unique characteristics of each variety, you can choose the one that best fits your needs and preferences, and help your pothos thrive in your home or garden. Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or new to gardening, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to choose between jade pothos and golden pothos, and care for your chosen variety.
Jade Pothos Vs Golden Pothos Overview
Appearance
The Jade Pothos and Golden Pothos are two popular varieties of the Epipremnum genus, with distinct differences in appearance. While the Jade Pothos has solid green foliage, the Golden Pothos showcases leaves that have both green and yellow variegation in the form of speckles and stripes (The Spruce). Their leaves, which are heart-shaped and waxy, vary slightly in size and shape. The Jade Pothos has leaves that are a bit slimmer and narrower compared to those of the Golden Pothos (The Spruce).
Scientific Classification
Both Jade Pothos and Golden Pothos belong to the Epipremnum genus within the Araceae family. The Jade Pothos is a naturally occurring mutation of the original Epipremnum aureum species, which is also known as the Golden Pothos (The Spruce). These two varieties, although sharing the same genus and species, have adapted to different living conditions and have unique appearances that set them apart.
The Jade Pothos and Golden Pothos varieties have certain differences in their light requirements as well. The Jade Pothos, with its solid green leaves, can handle a range of lighting conditions, ranging from low light to bright, indirect light (The Spruce). On the other hand, Golden Pothos tends to lose its distinctive golden flecks if left without sunlight for prolonged periods as they produce more chlorophyll to maintain growth (All About Gardening). This makes the Jade Pothos a better option for lower light areas as compared to the Golden Pothos.
Light and Temperature Requirements
Jade Pothos and Golden Pothos are popular houseplants due to their attractive foliage and easy-care nature. One of the most important factors contributing to the health and growth of these plants is understanding their light and temperature requirements.
Ideal Lighting Conditions
Both Jade Pothos and Golden Pothos thrive in medium to bright indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch their leaves, so it’s important to place them near a source of light that won’t damage them. One ideal location is a south-facing window that provides filtered or dappled sunlight throughout the day, ensuring adequate light exposure without the risk of overheating or sunburn.
Artificial light can also be a suitable option, especially for those who have limited access to natural light. Pothos plants have been known to adapt well to artificial light, making them an excellent choice for offices and other low-light environments.
Temperature Range
While Jade and Golden Pothos can tolerate a range of temperatures, they prefer consistent conditions within the range of 65 to 80°F (18 to 27°C). Avoid placing the plants near vents, drafts, or windows with significant temperature fluctuations, as these can negatively impact their growth and well-being.
In summary, providing your Jade and Golden Pothos with the ideal lighting and temperature conditions will allow them to thrive and maintain their beautiful foliage. By following these guidelines and monitoring their environment, these houseplants will reward you with vibrant, healthy growth for years to come.
Plant Care and Maintenance
Providing proper care and maintenance for jade pothos and golden pothos plants is essential for them to thrive. These popular houseplants have slightly different requirements, but both need attention to watering, soil and fertilizer, as well as pruning and growth rate.
Watering Requirements
Both jade pothos and golden pothos require careful watering to avoid overwatering or underwatering. The key is to water them when the top inch of soil is dry. Jade pothos are known to be more drought-resistant, which means they can tolerate slightly longer periods without water (The Spruce). To ensure adequate humidity levels, especially for golden pothos, it’s important to maintain a high humidity environment or mist the leaves occasionally.
Soil and Fertilizer
The ideal soil for both jade pothos and golden pothos is a well-draining mix that allows for proper air circulation and root growth. A mixture of peat moss and perlite is a good choice for these plants. Fertilizing should be done every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer), using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. In the winter, reduce the frequency of fertilizing to every 8-12 weeks. Proper fertilization will help enhance their growth rate and overall health(The Old Farmer’s Almanac).
Pruning and Growth Rate
Pruning is essential for maintaining a healthy and attractive pothos plant. Trimming back dead or yellowing leaves will encourage new growth and help maintain a manageable size. The growth rate of these plants varies, with golden pothos being taller and faster-growing than jade pothos. Golden pothos can reach up to 6 feet in height, while jade pothos is usually around 3 feet tall(Plant Classroom).
By regularly monitoring the care and maintenance of jade pothos and golden pothos, these houseplants will reward you with lush, vibrant foliage. It’s essential to adjust care factors such as water, soil, temperature, and fertilizer to optimize their growth and health.
Propagation and Cultivation
Jade Pothos and Golden Pothos are both popular houseplant choices, known for their low maintenance needs and ability to grow in various conditions. They have some key differences that are important to discuss for propagation and cultivation.
Cultivars and Varieties
There are several pothos varieties, with differing vine structures and foliage patterns. Some popular types include the well-known Golden Pothos and Jade Pothos, as well as Marble Queen, Pearls and Jade, Neon, Manjula, Cebu Blue, Glacier, Satin, Jessenia, Epipremnum pinnatum, and Harlequin Pothos. These varieties exhibit diverse levels of variegation, providing a wide array of options for home gardeners.
The Golden Pothos features variegated leaves with golden-yellow and green tones, while the Jade Pothos has a solid bright green appearance. Both have gently heart-shaped leaves with rounded bases and pointed tips. The variation in other types, such as the Marble Queen, Cebu Blue, and Satin Pothos, may include different colors and patterns in foliage, as well as varying vine structures.
Propagation Techniques
Propagation is an essential process for cultivating pothos varieties. Though these plants cannot be grown from seed, they can be effortlessly propagated from stem cuttings. For both Jade Pothos and Golden Pothos, select a healthy stem with at least three leaves to use as a cutting. Remove the leaf closest to the cut end to facilitate rooting (The Spruce) .
These cuttings can be propagated using different mediums like water, soil, or sphagnum moss. Water propagation involves placing the stem in a jar filled with enough water to cover its base. The jar should be placed in a location that receives indirect sunlight, and roots should form within a month (WikiHow). For soil propagation, plant the cutting in potting soil and keep the soil moist until roots develop. Sphagnum moss can also be used as a medium, providing a well-draining environment for proper root growth.
Pothos varieties, including Jade and Golden Pothos, thrive in well-draining potting soil and often benefit from being placed in a hanging basket to allow their vines to trail. The plants should be located in areas where they receive indirect sunlight, as direct sun can damage their leaves.
Pothos Plant Appearance and Characteristics
Pothos plants are popular houseplants known for their distinctive foliage and easy-to-care-for nature. Among the different types of pothos plants, the Jade and Golden varieties are commonly grown as vining houseplants.
Leaf Shapes and Colors
Both Jade and Golden pothos have heart-shaped leaves, a characteristic feature of many vining plants in the family Araceae. The main difference in appearance between the two varieties is their leaf color and variegation patterns. Jade pothos has solid green leaves, while Golden pothos has more vibrantly colored leaves featuring yellow variegation and gold flecks, that brighten up shaded corners of your home.
The leaf variegation in Golden pothos is caused by a natural mutation, resulting in beautiful patterns resembling delicate brushstrokes of lemon-yellow color. These vibrant colors can fade in low light conditions, so it’s important to find a balance between too much and too little light to ensure optimal leaf coloration.
Mature Size and Growth Pattern
Golden and Jade pothos plants differ in their mature size and growth patterns. Golden pothos typically grow taller and faster, with a maximum height of about 6 feet when provided with proper nutrients and water. In contrast, Jade pothos plants are generally smaller, reaching a height of around 3 feet.
Both Jade and Golden pothos have a vining growth pattern, making them perfect as hanging basket plants or trailing plants in your home or office. They can be easily trained to climb on supports or cascade down from a hanging pot. These plants adapt well to various light conditions, from low light to bright, indirect light, and temperatures between 65 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
In conclusion, Jade and Golden pothos are similar in many aspects, but their distinct leaf coloration and growth patterns set them apart. No matter which variety you choose, these beautiful and resilient plants will add a touch of charm to your indoor space.
Plant Safety and Toxicity
Jade pothos and golden pothos are popular houseplants due to their attractive and hardy nature. However, it is essential to be aware of their potential toxicity to pets and family members. Both jade pothos and golden pothos contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals within their leaves and stems, which can pose a danger to adults, children, and pets if ingested (HappySprout).
When it comes to household pets like cats and dogs, it is crucial to recognize that pothos plants are indeed toxic. If your furry friend were to consume part of one of these plants, they could experience symptoms like vomiting, excessive drooling, and difficulty swallowing (Nature of Home). Additionally, they might exhibit a loss of appetite and a general sense of discomfort.
As a responsible pet owner, it’s essential to keep pothos plants out of reach or consider alternative non-toxic plants for your living space. While the effects of ingesting pothos are not typically fatal, it can still cause significant discomfort and distress for both animals and humans.
Understanding the common symptoms associated with pothos exposure will help you respond quickly if an unfortunate incident occurs. Some symptoms you may notice in affected humans or animals include:
- Oral irritation
- Swelling of the mouth, tongue, or throat
- Nausea or vomiting
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
If you believe that someone in your household, be it a person or a pet, has come into contact with a pothos plant, it is advisable to seek medical or veterinary assistance promptly to ensure their well-being.
Additional Pothos Varieties
Aside from the Jade and Golden Pothos, there are several other noteworthy Pothos varieties that may interest plant enthusiasts. One popular variety is the Marble Queen Pothos, known for its striking white and green variegated leaves. This variety adds a touch of elegance and requires similar care to other Pothos plants.
The Baltic Blue Pothos is another unique variety, showcasing bluish-green leaves with hints of silver. Similarly, the Global Green Pothos boasts stunning green leaves with cream-colored variegation, making it a charming addition to any plant collection.
For those looking for vibrantly colored options, the Variegated Neon Pothos offers bright, neon-green leaves with cream-colored edges, while the Silver Vine, also known as Silver Satin Pothos, features dark green leaves with silver markings.
In addition to these varieties, the Pearl and Jade Pothos is an intriguing cultivar with smaller, thinner leaves compared to the Marble Queen Pothos. This variety has white-edged light green leaves, cream and white variegation, and green streaks throughout.
The Hawaiian Pothos, on the other hand, features large, glossy, green leaves with hints of gold. This variety thrives in bright, indirect light and adds a tropical feel to any space.
Another variety to consider is the Silver Pothos, known for its attractive, heart-shaped leaves with silver and green variegation. Well-suited for low to medium light conditions, this plant is a perfect option for indoor areas with limited natural light.
Apart from their visual distinctions, most Pothos varieties prefer bright, indirect light and have similar care requirements. They are generally hardy plants that can adapt to various environments, making them an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced plant enthusiasts alike.
Pothos Plant Pests and Diseases
Jade and Golden Pothos are popular choices for indoor houseplants due to their attractive foliage and relatively low maintenance requirements. However, it is crucial to understand the potential pests and diseases that may affect these plants to ensure their long-term health and growth. In this section, we will delve into the common pests and diseases that target Jade and Golden Pothos plants and discuss preventive measures and remedies.
Both Jade and Golden Pothos plants can be susceptible to common houseplant pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, thrips, whiteflies, and fungus gnats. Additionally, they may also be affected by diseases such as root rot and bacterial wilt. Though these issues may not be as prevalent in Pothos plants, it’s essential to be vigilant and take appropriate action if detected.
Jade and Golden Pothos are moderately drought-resistant, which means they can tolerate occasional negligence in terms of watering. However, these plants still have specific lighting conditions that must be met. Both types of Pothos thrive in indirect sunlight, but Golden Pothos may exhibit more pronounced variegation when exposed to brighter light.
Proper plant care can go a long way in preventing pest infestations and diseases. Some of the best practices to keep these plants healthy and thriving include the following:
- Inspect your plants regularly for signs of pests and diseases.
- Ensure adequate lighting conditions, and avoid exposing the plants to direct sunlight.
- Water appropriately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
- Prune dead or infected leaves and stems to improve the plant’s overall health.
- Avoid overcrowding and maintain proper ventilation, which helps prevent the spread of diseases.
If you detect pests or diseases on your Jade or Golden Pothos, immediate action is necessary. For instance, mealybugs can be removed using cotton swabs dipped in alcohol or by applying insecticidal soap. Furthermore, infected parts of the plants should be pruned to prevent the spread of diseases like bacterial wilt and Southern blight.
Lastly, Jade and Golden Pothos plants can be propagated easily using stem cuttings. This method involves taking a healthy stem with visible nodes and a few leaves and allowing it to root in water. Once new growth appears, the cutting can be transplanted into nutrient-rich soil for proper development.
Origins and Popularity
Jade pothos and golden pothos both originate from Asia, specifically the tropical regions where they thrive in warm and humid environments. These plants have gained immense popularity due to their beautiful foliage and adaptability to different growing conditions. The demand for these attractive houseplants has led to their widespread availability and affordability.
One of the reasons for the popularity of jade and golden pothos is their adaptability. These plants thrive in a variety of lighting conditions, from low light to bright, indirect sunlight. Moreover, they are quite forgiving when it comes to watering and can tolerate some degree of neglect. This makes them an excellent choice for novice gardeners and busy individuals alike.
Cost-wise, both jade and golden pothos are relatively inexpensive and can be found at most garden centers or plant nurseries. They are often sold as small potted plants, making them a budget-friendly addition to one’s indoor plant collection.
To maintain vigorous growth and a full appearance, it is advisable to support both jade and golden pothos with a trellis or other type of support structure. This will encourage the plants to climb and spread out, showcasing their stunning foliage. As the plants mature and their trailing vines grow, they can also be propagated by taking cuttings and rooting them in water or soil to create additional plants.
- Asia: The region where jade and golden pothos originate.
- Cost: These plants are affordable and easily available.
- Availability: Widely accessible at most garden centers.
- Popularity: Highly sought-after due to beautiful foliage and adaptability.
- Trellis: A support system to maintain growth and appearance.
- Root rot: A potential issue if the plants are overwatered.
Despite their popularity and hardiness, jade and golden pothos are not immune to issues such as root rot. Overwatering can lead to the development of root rot, which can ultimately be detrimental to the health of the plants. To avoid this issue, be cautious not to overwater and ensure the potting mix drains well.
In conclusion, both jade and golden pothos have their appeal, each offering unique foliage patterns and colors. Their popularity, affordability, and ease of care make them a great addition to any indoor plant collection. By providing proper support, avoiding overwatering, and monitoring for any signs of distress, these plants can thrive and bring beauty and natural elements to one’s home.
Video Guide
My name is Daniel Elrod, and I have been houseplant love ever since I was 17. I love how much joy they bring to any room in the home. I’ve always been amazed at how a few pots of flowing leaves can turn a drab and sterile office into an inviting place where people love to work at.
