Satin pothos care guide
Scindapsus pictus
Also known as: Silver pothos, Silver satin pothos, Scindapsus pictus 'Argyraeus'
Pets and children
Considered toxic
Like pothos, its leaves and stems carry calcium oxalate; chewing causes mouth pain, swelling, and vomiting, so keep it out of reach and consult a veterinarian, or a doctor for a child, if eaten.
How often to water Satin pothos
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 7 days
- As a guide, water once the soil has dried well; slightly curling leaves signal thirst, and constantly wet soil damages the roots.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 10 days
- Generally water two to three days after the soil dries, stretching the interval as it cools.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every 14 days
- Water sparingly about a week after the soil dries; kept on the dry side, it handles the cold better.
Light and placement for Satin pothos
Bright light behind a sheer curtain is about right; direct sun scorches the silver markings, while dim light blurs them and stretches the vine.
Overwintering Satin pothos
Overwintering guide: 10°C (50°F) or above
Tender to cold: overwinter it indoors above about 10°C, away from chilly windows, and water less so the roots stay neither cold nor wet.
Fertilizing and repotting Satin pothos
Fertilizer
From May to September, give weak liquid feed about twice a month or slow-release fertilizer roughly every two months, and less to a slow-growing plant.
When to repot
Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
Common problems with Satin pothos
- Overwatering rots the roots and the leaves yellow and drop.
- Winter cold blackens the leaves and weakens the whole plant.
- On a dark shelf the markings fade and only the vines lengthen.
Tips for growing Satin pothos
- Leaves curling slightly inward are the cue to water; a lean watering habit keeps it going.
- Trimming the vines makes them branch into a fuller, bushier plant.
- It is a different genus from pothos and does better with somewhat less water.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
Keep your plant log going
Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.
