Pearls and Jade Pothos

Basic Information

Common Name: Pearls and Jade Pothos

Scientific Name: Epipremnum aureum ‘Pearls and Jade’

Native Habitat: Solomon Islands

History / Discovery / Cultivator

The Pearls and Jade Pothos, Epipremnum aureum ‘Pearls and Jade’, is a captivating cultivar of the common pothos, tracing its lineage back to the Solomon Islands. Unlike naturally occurring varieties, Pearls and Jade is a result of careful cultivation and selection. The story of this cultivar isn’t as well-documented as some other plants, but the general consensus points towards its development as a sport (a naturally occurring mutation) within a larger commercial greenhouse or nursery setting. These mutations, if deemed desirable for their unique characteristics, are then propagated and stabilized through vegetative means (cuttings).

The defining characteristic of the Pearls and Jade Pothos is its striking variegation. This isn’t the bold, marbled variegation found in the Marble Queen Pothos, nor the sectoral variegation of a Manjula Pothos. Instead, ‘Pearls and Jade’ displays speckled and marbled patterns of creamy white and various shades of green, often concentrated around the edges of the leaves. This unique pattern gives the plant its descriptive name. The ‘Pearls’ allude to the small, pearl-like flecks of white, while the ‘Jade’ refers to the various shades of green that intermingle.

While the specific individual or nursery responsible for the initial selection and propagation of Pearls and Jade remains elusive, its rise in popularity is evident from the late 20th century onwards. This cultivar appealed to plant enthusiasts seeking something different from the readily available Golden Pothos. Its compact growth habit, coupled with the unique variegation, made it an attractive option for smaller spaces and indoor environments.

The ongoing cultivation of Pearls and Jade depends on skilled horticulturists who carefully select and propagate plants exhibiting the desired variegation patterns. As with many variegated plants, the stability of the variegation is a crucial factor. Growers strive to maintain the distinctive characteristics of ‘Pearls and Jade’ through controlled environments and meticulous selection of propagation material. Plants with less desirable variegation might be discarded to maintain the integrity of the cultivar.

Today, Pearls and Jade Pothos is widely available in garden centers and nurseries around the world, attesting to its success as a cultivated variety. It remains a popular choice for both novice and experienced plant collectors, prized for its relatively easy care and its beautiful, distinctive foliage. Its continued presence in the houseplant market solidifies its place as a noteworthy cultivar of the Epipremnum aureum species, showcasing the beauty and diversity that can arise from targeted breeding and careful selection within the plant kingdom. The story of the Pearls and Jade Pothos, though perhaps lacking a single, definitive origin story, exemplifies the constant evolution and diversification within the horticultural world.

Plant Care Summary

Botanical Insights

Adaptations

Pearls and Jade Pothos shares many adaptations with its parent species, Epipremnum aureum. As an epiphyte in its native environment, it uses aerial roots to cling to trees and other surfaces, allowing it to climb towards sunlight in the shaded understory. This climbing habit is retained when grown as a houseplant, making it suitable for hanging baskets or training on supports. The plant’s relatively thick, waxy leaves help conserve water, an adaptation for coping with fluctuating moisture levels in its natural habitat. The variegation, although aesthetically pleasing to humans, may also serve a purpose in the plant’s survival. Variegated areas lack chlorophyll and, therefore, don’t contribute to photosynthesis. Some studies suggest that variegation can help reduce leaf temperature, especially in bright sunlight, by reflecting some of the light, preventing overheating. The plant also tolerates a wide range of light conditions, allowing it to adapt to varying light levels within a home environment.

Propagation Methods

Pearls and Jade Pothos is most commonly propagated by stem cuttings. This involves taking a section of stem with at least one leaf node (the point where a leaf emerges from the stem) and placing it in water or directly into moist potting mix. When propagating in water, roots will typically develop within a few weeks, at which point the cutting can be transferred to soil. For direct planting in soil, it’s important to maintain consistent moisture levels until roots establish. Rooting hormone can be used to speed up the rooting process, but is not always necessary. Division is also possible, particularly for larger, more established plants. This involves carefully separating the root ball into multiple sections, ensuring each section has a healthy root system and several leaves. Leaf cuttings are generally not successful with pothos, as they lack a node to produce a new plant. Air layering is another propagation method that can be used, especially for plants with long, trailing vines. This involves creating a wound on the stem and wrapping it with moist sphagnum moss until roots develop, at which point the rooted section can be cut from the mother plant and potted separately.

Toxicology

Like other pothos varieties, Pearls and Jade Pothos contains calcium oxalate crystals in its tissues. These crystals are insoluble and needle-shaped, causing irritation upon contact with mucous membranes. If ingested by humans or pets (especially cats and dogs), the calcium oxalate crystals can cause oral irritation, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. In severe cases, swelling of the mouth and throat can occur, potentially leading to breathing difficulties. The severity of the reaction depends on the amount of plant material ingested and the individual’s sensitivity. While usually not life-threatening, it is important to seek veterinary or medical attention if significant ingestion is suspected. Keeping the plant out of reach of children and pets is the best way to prevent accidental ingestion.

Common Problems

Pests:

• Mealybugs
• Spider mites
• Scale

Diseases:

• Root rot
• Bacterial leaf spot
• Fungal leaf spot

Other:

• Leaf yellowing: Overwatering, poor drainage, or nutrient deficiency.
• Browning tips: Dry air, inconsistent watering, or fertilizer burn.
• Loss of variegation: Insufficient light.

Rarity & Value

Rarity:

Pearls and Jade Pothos isn’t generally considered rare, but can be less common than the ubiquitous Golden Pothos. Its variegation is more delicate and can sometimes revert to entirely green leaves if not given proper care. While readily available, specimens with highly defined and stable variegation patterns are typically more sought after. This cultivar requires more careful selection during propagation to maintain its distinctive look, which can impact its availability compared to simpler varieties.

Value:

The value of a Pearls and Jade Pothos is primarily determined by the size of the plant, the quality and stability of its variegation, and its overall health. Larger, more mature plants command higher prices, especially if they display a full, bushy appearance. Specimens with exceptional variegation – clear, crisp patterns of white against green – are generally more valuable than those with faded or less defined variegation. Plants that exhibit stable variegation (i.e., consistently produce leaves with the desired patterns) are also more desirable to collectors, as there is less risk of the plant reverting to entirely green foliage. Market trends can also play a role, with demand for specific houseplants fluctuating over time.