Devil's Ivy, Split-Leaf Philodendron
epipremnum pinnatum
Also known as: ["Ceylon Creeper","Philodendron Pinnatum"]
Overview
A vigorous, evergreen vine with heart-shaped leaves that can develop deep splits as they mature, often grown as a houseplant for its attractive foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","low maintenance","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Alismatales |
| Family: | Araceae |
| Genus: | Epipremnum |
| Botanical Name: | Epipremnum pinnatum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor hanging basket or trellis, or outdoor in a sheltered, shaded spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days, especially in dry indoor environments to maintain humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with perlite or orchid bark for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 1–2 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; trim back long vines and remove leggy growth.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates lower light but may grow slower.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to brighter light to prevent leaf burn; avoid direct sunlight; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
bright indirect light, tolerates partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct light; move away from intense afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Allow soil to dry between waterings; water deeply to encourage root growth; adjust based on season and humidity.
Soil
well-draining potting mix with added perlite or orchid bark
pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); thrives in warm, stable conditions; sensitive to cold drafts.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain stable warmth; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer), with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength
Dilute fertilizer to avoid burn; fertilize during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil; nodes must be submerged or buried for rooting.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem, cut below node, remove lower leaves, place in medium, maintain moisture.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light; avoid direct sun.
Medium
Water or well-draining soil mix (e.g., perlite and peat moss).
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks in water; 4–8 weeks in soil.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), water or potting mix, clear plastic bag (for humidity).
Quick Tips
Use multiple cuttings for higher success; keep medium consistently moist; provide gentle warmth.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut just above a leaf node to promote branching; remove yellow or dead leaves.
Pruning Plan
Encourage bushier growth, control size, and remove dead/damaged foliage.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, cut above nodes, remove dead leaves, wear gloves if needed, dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring or early summer before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the pot; promotes fresh soil and growth.
Checklist
Select new pot, prepare soil mix, handle roots carefully, water after repotting, place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season, avoid leaf wetting
How to Apply Water Properly
Water until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without waterlogging; focus on the root zone and avoid wetting leaves to prevent fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, leaf drop, or browning leaf edges.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to root rot.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, avoid cold drafts, and reduce watering in cooler conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; growth may slow due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, and ensure adequate water without overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, avoid contact with leaves, flush periodically
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are susceptible to the toxic effects of Epipremnum pinnatum, which can cause severe oral and gastrointestinal irritation. The calcium oxalate crystals can lead to significant discomfort and potential respiratory distress.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Epipremnum pinnatum by dogs can lead to oral and gastrointestinal irritation due to calcium oxalate crystals. Symptoms may range from mild discomfort to severe swelling and difficulty breathing.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicEpipremnum pinnatum contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause severe irritation and swelling of the mouth, throat, and digestive tract upon ingestion. The plant's sap may also cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Epipremnum pinnatum toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Epipremnum pinnatum?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 1-2 weeks, depending on conditions.
Q: Can Epipremnum pinnatum grow in low light?
A: Yes, it tolerates low light but thrives in bright, indirect light.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Araceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright indirect light, tolerat |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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