Manjula Pothos (Epipremnum aureum ‘Manjula’)
Botanical Classification:
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Clade: Tracheophytes
- Clade: Angiosperms
- Clade: Monocots
- Order: Alismatales
- Family: Araceae
- Genus: Epipremnum
- Species: Epipremnum aureum
- Cultivar: ‘Manjula’
Epipremnum aureum ‘Manjula’ is a cultivar of the species Epipremnum aureum, which is part of the Araceae family, known for its diverse and decorative foliage plants.
The Manjula Pothos was developed by the University of Florida and is a patented cultivar, introduced to the market in the early 2000s. It was created through a process of natural mutation and selective breeding, aiming to produce a variety with unique variegation patterns. The name ‘Manjula’ is derived from a common Indian name, symbolizing beauty and creativity.
Since its introduction, Manjula Pothos has quickly gained a following among plant enthusiasts for its distinctive, almost watercolor-like variegation. Its leaves blend shades of green, cream, and silver in a way that’s both soft and striking, making it a favorite for those looking for something special in their indoor plant collection.
While newer compared to some other Pothos varieties, Manjula has spread through the houseplant trade, becoming a popular choice in homes, offices, and plant collections worldwide, particularly among those who appreciate unique variegation patterns.
Like all Epipremnum aureum cultivars, Manjula Pothos is not suited for outdoor cultivation in most USDA Hardiness Zones due to its tropical origins. It thrives in Zones 10-11, where frost is rare or nonexistent, allowing for outdoor growth in very warm climates. In zones colder than 10, Manjula Pothos is grown indoors where it can adapt to various light conditions, making it suitable for indoor environments across all USDA zones.
Although ‘Manjula’ is a cultivated variety and doesn’t exist in the wild, its parent species, Epipremnum aureum, is native to the Solomon Islands in the South Pacific, where it grows in the understory of tropical rainforests. The Manjula cultivar shares similar environmental preferences in cultivation.
Manjula Pothos enjoys a global cultivated range, found in countries with a keen interest in houseplants. Its unique variegation has made it particularly popular among collectors and those looking to add an artistic touch to their spaces.
Given its variegation, Manjula might be less likely to dominate in natural settings compared to more uniformly green varieties. However, care should still be taken in tropical or subtropical environments where it might escape cultivation.
Its adaptability to different light levels, from low to bright indirect light, combined with its tolerance for occasional neglect in watering, makes it a versatile choice for indoor gardening. It’s particularly appreciated in environments where the beauty of its variegation can be highlighted.
Characteristics
- Foliage: Manjula Pothos is celebrated for its distinctive variegation, featuring leaves with a mix of green, cream, white, and sometimes silver, creating a watercolor-like effect. Each leaf can have its own unique pattern, adding to the plant’s charm. The leaves are heart-shaped, slightly wavy, and have a matte finish compared to the glossier leaves of some other Pothos varieties.
- Growth Habit: Like other Epipremnum aureum cultivars, Manjula can grow as a climber or a trailer. It uses aerial roots to attach to supports or trails beautifully from hanging baskets or shelves. Its growth can be more moderate compared to fully green varieties due to the variegation affecting photosynthesis.
- Size: Leaves can grow to about 4 inches (10 cm) wide, and with proper care, the plant can extend several feet in length, providing a lush, decorative look.
- Flowers: Flowering is rare in indoor settings, but when it occurs, it produces the typical Araceae family structure of a spadix and spathe.
Cultivation
- Light: Manjula Pothos prefers bright, indirect light to maintain its variegation. Low light can cause the leaves to revert to more solid green, diminishing the variegated effect. Direct sunlight should be avoided to prevent leaf scorching, especially on the variegated parts.
- Soil: A well-draining potting mix is essential. A blend of peat moss, perlite, and pine bark or a commercial houseplant mix works well to prevent root rot while providing necessary nutrients.
- Water: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. It’s somewhat drought-tolerant but benefits from consistent moisture, especially in brighter light conditions. Overwatering can lead to root issues, so ensure the soil isn’t constantly wet.
- Humidity: While adaptable to average home humidity, Manjula thrives with higher humidity, reminiscent of its tropical origins. Misting or using a humidity tray can be beneficial.
- Temperature: It prefers temperatures between 65-85°F (18-29°C). It’s sensitive to cold, with growth slowing below 50°F (10°C), and can be damaged by frost.
- Fertilization: Use a balanced, liquid fertilizer monthly during the growing season. Since variegation can slow growth, don’t over-fertilize, which might encourage more green foliage at the expense of the variegation. Reduce or halt fertilization in fall and winter.
- Pruning: Prune to control size, shape, or to encourage bushier growth. Removing any yellow or damaged leaves also helps maintain plant health. Pruning provides cuttings for propagation.
Propagation
- Stem Cuttings: This is the most effective way to propagate Manjula Pothos:
- Select a healthy stem and cut just below a node. Aim for a cutting with at least one node and one or two leaves.
- Water Method: Place the cutting in water, ensuring the node is submerged. Change the water every week to keep it fresh. Roots typically form within a few weeks, after which you can pot the cutting.
- Soil Method: Plant directly into moist soil, ensuring the node is covered. Keep the soil consistently damp until roots develop, which can take a few weeks.
- Layering: For natural propagation, you can encourage roots to form on a stem while it’s still attached by pinning a section to the soil or wrapping it in moist sphagnum moss. Once rooted, it can be cut and potted.
- Division: While less common due to its growth habit, division can be done with mature plants that have developed multiple stems or during repotting. Ensure each section has roots and shoots before separating.