Epipremnum aureum (ep-ih-PREM-num AW-re-um), often referred to as devil’s ivy or the pothos plant. It is a member of the Araceae family that’s produced many cultivars.
One of these cultivars is ‘Marble Queen’, which has itself produced variations. This includes the popular sport (genetic mutation) ‘Pearls and Jade’.
This climbing evergreen perennial has variegated grey-green leaves covered in cream, gray, and white streaks. It resembles its cousin, the satin pothos (Scindapsus pictus).
The plant originated in the Solomon Islands. ‘Pearls and Jade’ itself originated at the University of Florida.
Pothos varieties such as ‘Pearls and Jade’ has many similarities to shape and coloration to Philodendron.
It is why the ‘Pearl and Jade Pothos’ is often sold as philodendron in some nurseries.
Pothos ‘Pearls and Jade’ Care
Size & Growth
‘Pearls and Jade’ pothos is not only a beautiful plant, it’s an avid climber. The average length of 6′ to 10’ feet and the potential for up to 30’ feet in the right conditions.
When not supported by its aerial roots, this plant can serve as a trailing vine. This makes it perfect for hanging baskets.
This particular variety grows slower than most pothos. Slow growth may or may not be preferable. But, it makes up for slow growth with wonderful variegation and relatively long life.
Flowering and Fragrance
While pothos plants do flower, they almost always need scientific intervention before they can bloom.
Light & Temperature
Due to its nature as a climber, ‘Pearls and Jade’ prefers low light conditions.
Bright indirect light is ideal, with partial shade or even fluorescent lighting.
Pothos Pearl and Jade cannot tolerate frost. It grows best in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 12. It prefers a minimum temperature of 50° degrees Fahrenheit.
Watering and Feeding Pearls n Jade Pothos
Caution should always be taken not to overwater a pothos plant, as root rot is one of the biggest killers.
Allow the soil to dry 1 to 2” inches down between waterings. You will normally need to water the plant every 1 to 2 weeks.
Due to its tropical heritage, these plants enjoy higher humidity or the occasional misting. Make adjustments to the watering routine when providing extra moisture.
There are few other nutritional requirements for this plant.
But, providing a balanced houseplant fertilizer every other month during the growing season.
Soil & Transplanting
This particular pothos has very few soil requirements, allowing you to use most basic potting mixes.
Be sure to use a pot with good drainage holes, and aim for a potting mix that’s well-draining.
‘Pearls and Jade’ is good at telling you when it needs something, and repotting is no exception.
Drooping leaves while the soil is moist is a sign the plant has become pot bound. Transfer the plant to a container one size larger.
Be sure to give it fresh potting soil, as the old soil is likely spent.
Pearls and Jade Pothos Care: Grooming and Maintenance
Pruning back the stems will help keep your ‘Pearls and Jade’ looking nice and full.
Prune long stems back to produce a fuller pothos plant.
More about Pothos – Check out the 10 Most Popular Types of Pothos
How To Propagate ‘Pearls and Jade’
It is easy to create new ‘Jade and Pearl Pothos’ plants through stem cuttings.
Cutting should be 4 to 6” inches long with 4 or 5 leaves. remove the bottom leaves near the nodes for the soon-to-be-submerged end.
Place the cutting in either water or soil. You will want to add nutrients to the water when going that route.
Propagating in water lets you grow this pothos hydroponically and not risk root rot.
When transplanting from water to soil, make the change after about a month. Slowly wean young plants off of excess water to prevent system shock.
Epipremnum ‘Pearls and Jade’ Pests or Diseases
Root rot is the primary killer. Look for black spots on the leaves and excessive drooping.
The pothos plant is generally hardy. They can become infested with common pests, like fungus gnats and spider mites.
As with all species of pothos, ‘Pearls and Jade’ contains calcium oxalate. This toxic substance is harmful to both humans and pets, and should be kept away from any curious mouths.
Suggested ‘Pearls and Jade’ Uses
Due to its ability to thrive using fluorescent lighting, this pothos is perfect for bringing life to an office or interior room.
As houseplants, pothos plants are believed to bring good fortune and happiness to the house. This good fortune has earned them the common name of money plant.
The plant looks great in hanging baskets, in floor containers with a moss pole or other support, or large terrariums and vivariums.