Satin pothos - Scindapsus pictus (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images, Toxic)

Satin pothos

The satin pothos is a commonly cultivated houseplant that is native to Bangladesh, Thailand, Malaysia, Borneo, and the Philippines. Due to the location of its natural habitat, the satin pothos must maintain a minimum temperature of 15 ℃.

Scientific classification

Species

Satin pothos (Scindapsus pictus)

Water plantains and allies

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Toxic to Human & Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Vine, Herb

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

3 m

Plant Height

1.5 m

Spread

Green, Silver, Gray, Variegated

Leaf Color

Green

Fruit Color

Yellow, Green

Flower Color

Non-dormant

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 41 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Slow

Growth Rate

Images of Satin pothos

Distribution of Satin pothos

Distribution Map

Satin pothos is native to neighboring countries in the South China Sea. This plant has stayed within its native region, not spreading to any other areas. Satin pothos prefers heat and humidity, and so favors tropical temperatures with damp, shaded soil, it will be easier to see it in a place full of trees.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Forest

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Usually an indoor houseplant, satin pothos can grow outdoors if the climate is right; in fact, it can grow more than three times larger than indoors. Because it is a climbing vine, in the garden, it requires a surface to climb on, be it a trellis or a larger tree. Satin pothos is suitable for tropical gardens as a specimen, or as an interesting backdrop to grow over structures in the back of garden beds. It performs well in hanging baskets.

Symbolism

Perseverance, determination to reach one's goals

Interesting Facts

Although they are typically grown as houseplants in the United States, satin pothos can be found growing in the wild in tropical areas. In its natural habitat, it is an epiphytic plant, because it grows up trees. As it vines up a tree, the leaves lie flat against the tree for protection. In homes, satin pothos is often grown in hanging baskets, so the vines can trail down.

Name Story

Satin pothos: This species is not a pothos plant but it is closely related to it. It is featured with dark green leaves, laced with abundant silver marks and satin luster. So, this plant is called satin pothos.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Satin pothos, including the following common varieties :

Satin Pothos 'Silvery Ann'Satin pothos 'Argyraeus'Satin pothos 'Exotica'

Toxicity

All parts of satin pothos are toxic due to insoluble calcium oxalates in the sap, causing mouth irritation, vomiting, and abdominal pain when ingested. Skin contact can lead to dermatitis. Cats and dogs are vulnerable: cats may experience severe mouth pain and stomach issues, while dogs can suffer immediate irritation and potentially severe symptoms if large amounts are consumed.

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Quickly Identify Satin pothos

Heart-shaped leaves with silver mottled pattern, up to 3 inches (7.5 cm) long.

White acylindrical spadix enclosed by flesh-colored spathe, 1.2-2.4 inches (3-6 cm) long.

Compact dark green berries under 1 inch (2.54 cm) in diameter, with firm texture.

Juvenile leaves egg-shaped or heart-shaped, up to 6 by 5.5 inches (15 by 14 cm).

Mature leaves transition from oblong to lance-shaped, adorned with white spots.

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Care Guide for Satin pothos

Every week

Water

Full shade

Sunlight

20 - 41 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Thriving in humid tropical understories, satin pothos requires consistent moisture and benefits from weekly watering to maintain moist, not waterlogged, soil. Higher humidity levels are ideal for its ornamental growth, achievable through misting or humidifiers to support lush foliage and health.

Fertilize: For optimal health, satin pothos requires monthly fertilization with high nitrogen during the growing season, then every 6-8 weeks in fall and winter. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer to avoid root burn, enhancing foliage and plant vitality as satin pothos matures and growth slows.

Pruning: Satin pothos features silvery, variegated leaves and benefits from early to late spring pruning. Trim leggy stems above nodes and remove yellowing leaves to promote growth, enhance air circulation, and maintain aesthetic appeal, preventing overcrowding and reducing disease risk.

Propagation: Propagation of satin pothos is best achieved through herbaceous cuttings in Spring and Summer. Success is indicated by root formation at the base of the cutting. Maintain consistent moisture and prevent direct sunlight during this process for optimal results.

Repotting: For satin pothos, an ornamental climbing plant, repot annually in spring using a slightly larger pot to promote growth. Provide moderate indirect light and consistent moisture post-repotting, avoiding waterlogging. A well-draining pot is essential for maintaining satin pothos's health.

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Images of Satin pothos

Distribution of Satin pothos

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Satin pothos

Care Guide for Satin pothos

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