The Pothos Flower Is Rarely Seen: Get to Know What a Blooming Pothos Looks Like and How to Care for It

The pothos flower refers to the bloom produced by pothos (Epipremnum aureum), a climbing plant in the Araceae family. Pothos originates from tropical rainforest regions, where it climbs and grows by means of aerial roots; as a houseplant it is grown mainly for its foliage. In its native environment, a mature pothos can send out an inflorescence bearing a spathe, but under ordinary indoor care conditions pothos blooming is extremely rare, and many people who have grown plants for years have never seen it.

The pothos flower is pale yellow-green and consists of a spathe wrapping a spadix, with a flowering form similar to that of plants in the same family. Because it is so seldom seen, people in folk tradition often regard a blooming pothos as a good omen, believing it signifies health and good luck. In fact, pothos flowering has more to do with plant age, growth vigor and environmental conditions; it is a natural phenomenon and need not be over-interpreted.

If you want your pothos to grow glossy leaves and thick, sturdy vines, pay attention to a few points in daily care. Pothos likes bright, indirect light, so avoid both harsh sun and long-term placement in too dark a corner; water when the soil is dry and let it dry out between waterings, since long-term waterlogging in the pot easily causes root rot and yellow leaves; during the growing season you can apply a dilute liquid fertilizer, and misting the leaves regularly to raise humidity helps keep the foliage emerald green. Cut stems root easily in water or a moist medium, making propagation simple enough for beginners.

Note that the sap of pothos contains irritating compounds, so it is best to wear gloves when pruning; if there are children or pets in the home, keep them from chewing the leaves. In addition, there is a herbal tea on the market also called "pothos flower," which is not the same plant as the common ornamental pothos; when buying and drinking it, be sure to tell the two apart and not confuse them.