AKA Satin Pothos
Scindapsus comes from the Greek word skindapsos, thought to mean “upon tree trunks” relating to how it grows up and upon trees.
Pictus, Meaning ‘Painted’ refers to the silver variegation of the leaves over a matte green background.
S. Pictus is quite new to being sold commercially as a house plant. It has grown in popularity with the rise of demand for variegated plants and recognised for its beauty and ease of growing.
Basic varieties such as Argyraeus and Silver Satin are affordable and readily available. Rarer ones like Exotica, Silvery Anne and Silver Lady are found in the more serious collections.
Vines grow to 3m long in the wild and tend to grow to 90cm in a pot.
Common Varieties:
Origin:
Native to South East Asia where it is warm and humid.
Terrestrial or Epiphytic:
Mostly Epiphytic, growing through trees, supported by it’s air roots. On the ground it will grow along the forest floor until it finds something to climb.
Growing Method:
Climbing a support structure like a moss pole, creeping along freely or spilling over a hanging basket are the most common ways this plant is grown in the home. However, it is capable of growing as a shingling plant.
If the plant is able to grow up something, the leaves can become larger than those hanging from a basket.
Light:
Bright indirect light will bring out the best variegation in the leaves.
Water:
Allow top inch of soil to dry between watering. Yellowing of leaves are a sign of over watering.
Temperature:
Idealy between 18 and 29 deg C (65-85f). Keep above 15 C and out of cold drafts. Prefers high temperatures paired with high humidity. A dry heat will lead to burnt leaves and further damage.
Humidity:
Prefers above 50%. This makes it a great plant for growing in terrariums.
Soil:
Grows well in a lighter, airy soil. An Aroid Mix is best. Heavier soils will hold water and make the plant prone to root rot, which this plant is prone to.
Fertiliser:
Weakly, Weekly! Small amounts on a weekly basis. I use a combo of slow release fertiliser and a plant food/seaweed liquid feed at quarter strength on a weekly basis. Back off in colder months when the plant is not growing.
Propagation:
Generally by stem cutting.
Flowers:
Flowers are a rare sight in cultivation, but in the wild flower Spathe form in the summer and are followed by berries.
Pests/Diseases:
Root rot is a major issue with over watering and poor drainage. Insects like Spider Mites and Scale can also be an issue.
Extra Info:
Just generally a fantastic plant to grow. It’s stunning and as long as you get your soil and watering right, it’s really easy to grow.
Thanks for reading and happy growing. Xx
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