Neon Pothos

Basic Information

Common Name: Neon Pothos
Scientific Name: Epipremnum aureum ‘Neon’
Native Habitat: Solomon Islands

History / Discovery / Cultivator

The Neon Pothos, Epipremnum aureum ‘Neon’, is a cultivar of the popular golden pothos, known scientifically as Epipremnum aureum. Epipremnum aureum is native to the Solomon Islands. The ‘Neon’ cultivar is a result of selective breeding, emphasizing its vibrant, chartreuse-colored foliage. While the precise origins of the ‘Neon’ cultivar are somewhat unclear in documented botanical history, its existence is attributable to the horticultural industry’s continuous pursuit of unique and visually appealing variations of existing plant species.

The golden pothos itself has a rich history of cultivation, becoming one of the most ubiquitous houseplants globally. Its adaptability to various environments and ease of propagation contributed significantly to its widespread popularity. It’s reasonable to assume that the ‘Neon’ variant followed a similar trajectory, quickly gaining favor among plant enthusiasts due to its striking coloration, which stands out against the darker greens typically found in indoor plant collections.

The development of the ‘Neon’ pothos, like many cultivars, likely involved careful observation and propagation of plants exhibiting desirable traits. Horticulturalists would have selected individuals with the most intense neon-green coloration and propagated them through stem cuttings, a common method for pothos. Over time, this selection process would have stabilized the neon-green trait, leading to the distinct cultivar we know today.

While specific individuals or nurseries responsible for the ‘Neon’ pothos’s initial cultivation are not widely documented, its introduction to the market likely occurred sometime in the late 20th or early 21st century, coinciding with increased interest in variegated and uniquely colored houseplants. The plant’s popularity has since exploded, fueled by social media and the growing trend of indoor gardening.

Its ease of care, characteristic of the golden pothos, combined with its visually striking neon foliage, has made it a staple in homes and offices around the world. The Neon Pothos serves as a testament to the continuous innovation within the horticultural industry and the enduring appeal of the golden pothos species. Its bright color provides a refreshing and vibrant contrast to other foliage, ensuring its continued popularity among plant collectors of all levels. The plant’s journey, though not perfectly documented, reflects the broader trends of plant hybridization and selection that contribute to the diverse range of houseplants available today. It will likely remain a popular choice for years to come.

Plant Care Summary

Botanical Insights

Adaptations

Neon Pothos, like other Epipremnum aureum varieties, exhibits several adaptations that contribute to its success as both a wild plant and a houseplant. Its vining growth habit allows it to climb trees in its native environment, reaching for sunlight in the shaded understory. The plant’s relatively thick, waxy leaves help it retain moisture, enabling it to tolerate periods of drought. As a houseplant, its adaptability to varying light levels and its ability to purify the air make it a popular choice for indoor environments. The ‘Neon’ cultivar’s bright coloration is a selected trait, not a natural adaptation, but it may contribute to the plant’s ability to attract pollinators in its native environment, although this is speculative given its typical propagation through cuttings.

Propagation Methods

The Neon Pothos is most commonly propagated through stem cuttings. This involves cutting a stem segment with at least one node (the point where a leaf emerges) and placing it in water or directly into moist potting mix. Roots will typically develop from the node within a few weeks. Stem cuttings are a relatively easy and reliable method for propagating pothos, making it a popular choice among plant enthusiasts. Division can also be used for more mature plants that have multiple vines growing from a single pot; simply separate the vines and repot them individually. Air layering can also be used.

Toxicology

Neon Pothos contains calcium oxalate crystals, which are toxic to both humans and pets if ingested. These crystals can cause immediate pain and irritation in the mouth, lips, and tongue. Symptoms in humans can include excessive drooling, difficulty swallowing, and vomiting. In pets, similar symptoms may occur, including pawing at the face and loss of appetite. While ingestion is rarely fatal, it’s important to keep Neon Pothos out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion is suspected, it is recommended to rinse the mouth thoroughly with water and contact a physician or veterinarian immediately. The severity of the reaction depends on the amount ingested and the individual’s sensitivity.

Common Problems

Pests:

• Spider mites
• Mealybugs
• Scale

Diseases:

• Root rot
• Leaf spot

Other:

• Leaf yellowing (Overwatering, poor drainage, or nutrient deficiency)
• Browning tips (Low humidity, inconsistent watering, or fertilizer burn)
• Fading color (Insufficient light)

Rarity & Value

Rarity:

Neon Pothos is generally not considered a rare plant, as it is relatively easy to propagate and widely available in nurseries and garden centers. However, particularly vibrant or well-established specimens with exceptional color may be slightly more difficult to find.

Value:

The value of a Neon Pothos typically depends on factors such as the size of the plant, the vibrancy of its neon-green color, and the overall health and condition of the plant. Larger, more mature plants with well-established root systems and intensely colored foliage command higher prices. Collector trends may also influence value, with demand for certain plant types fluctuating over time. Healthy, pest-free plants will be valued more than those with pest infestations or other issues.