Last Updated on April 14, 2023 by a Friendly Gardener
Botanically named the Epipremnum Pinnatum, this pothos variety is less well-known, but nonetheless, a striking houseplant that is low maintenance. As a pothos species, it is perfect for beginner gardeners that are looking for something out of the ordinary.
Popularly called the Pothos dragon tail, this variety features dark green, glossy, fenestrated foliage that is a bit rounded and resembles a dragon’s tail. It can be confused with a Rhaphidophora Decursiva also known as a “Creeping Philodendron” due to similarities in appearance, in fact, both are members of the Araceae family. The principal difference is that the philodendron has tear-shaped, rounder leaves, and the Dragon Tail pothos has thinner, longer foliage with very distinctive fenestrations when it reaches maturity.
This perennial pothos variety begins with rounded leaves shaped like arrowheads that eventually split as the plant ages. Younger plants will feature narrower lanceolate foliage with small holes near the mid-rib vein. With maturity, these holes split forming the fenestrations.
You may also find it referred to as Devil’s Ivy, and the Centipede Tonga Vine. A native of Southeast Asia, like many pothos species, the Dragons tail plant boasts lush tropical foliage. When cultivated outdoors, it should be considered potentially invasive.
The Dragon Tail plant is a climbing variety. It can be cultivated as a hanging plant but will not develop leaf fenestrations. The higher a climbing plant reaches, the larger its foliage will become.
Dragon Tail Pothos Plant Care
The Dragon Tail vines can grow as long as ten feet in length indoors, while outside they are known to reach fifty feet in length.
Soil
Pothos varieties need to be cultivated in soil that is well-draining. The dragon tail pothos is not fussy about soil, so any quality potting blend will be more than adequate. Plan on using two parts of your selected potting soil with one part of pumice or perlite to ensure drainage. Support is crucial to this plant’s health, so both moss poles and trellises should be used. Support will enable the plant to develop larger-sized and heavier foliage.
Light
As a tropical species, the Dragon Tail plant likes bright yet indirect light. Exposure to direct sunlight can lead to scorching. Place this plant near a window or if you place it on a windowsill, make sure you have a sheer curtain to protect it. The amount of light will influence the growth speed.
Water
The pothos dragon tail can do with a weekly watering but check to see if the top one to two inches of the soil bed dries out. Your plant will most likely require more water in spring and summer. If so, water. These plants can be susceptible to overwatering, which in turn will lead to root rot. As an alternative, you can soak your plant thoroughly and then allow all excess water to drain out.
Humidity
This tropical gem needs an indoor humidity level between 40% and 60%. It will grow in settings with lower humidity levels, but 60% humidity will make for a happy houseplant. You can use a space humidifier, or a pebble tray placed beneath your plant’s container if your indoor air is particularly dry, or you live in an arid climate. Occasional misting can help and grouping several plants will contribute to the creation of a microclimate.
Temperature
Your Dragon Tail pothos will thrive in indoor temperatures that measure in the range of 70° to 85° F. Keep this plant away from drafts and air currents. It will be able to tolerate higher temps up to 95°F but you must provide adequate water and humidity. Temperatures below 50°F will potentially harm your plant. The Dragon Tail pothos can be cultivated outside of USDA hardiness zone 9b on up.
Feeding
An occasional feeding, once monthly during the growing season will give your plant a nutrient boost. Do not feed during winter during its brief dormancy. The Dragon Tail pothos can develop without fertilization, but soil nutrients do gradually deplete, so a nutrient boost can compensate for natural depletion. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer with an NPK of 10-10-10.
Pruning
Every spring, consider pruning sections from the longer vines. You can trim 30% to 50% to encourage new growth. Some older leaves will drop off naturally. Nonetheless, if you notice damaged or aging leaves, you can trim them off regularly to improve the appearance of the plant and allow it to concentrate energy on newer growth. You can also trim stem sections for propagation purposes.
Repotting a Dragon Tail Pothos Plant
Dragon Tail pothos plants have a moderate growth rate in the proper cultivation environment. Plan on repotting your plant every other or every third year. If you notice foliage getting bigger you may want to move your plant to a pot one to two sizes larger. Clay or terracotta pots are ideal as they aid in wicking away excess moisture.
Dragon Tail Plant Propagation
Stem cuttings are the easiest method for propagating this plant. Air layering is also a viable method. Take a vine cutting that is about four inches in length with a node or two. Place your stem sections in a transparent glass or jar of water in a sunny, warm spot. After about a week, roots should begin to appear. Change the water weekly. When roots reach approximately two inches in length, they can be transplanted into fresh potting soil.
Dragon Tail Pothos Plant Problems
This pothos variety is not overly susceptible to diseases or pest infestations. Still, it is not immune to health issues. A weekly examination of your plant will help you stay on top of potential problems. Check under leaves and along stems for signs of pests. The most common houseplant pests include spider mites, thrips, mealybugs, and scales. Soggy soil can also cause fungus gnats to breed. Spray your plant with water jets to remove pests, then treat your Dragon Tail plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Yellowing leaves may appear due to overwatering. Brown spots on leaves are generally due to bacterial or fungal infections. It’s fundamental that you identify the problem to treat it correctly.
Pothos Dragon Tail Toxicity
As a pothos variety, the Dragon Tail plant is toxic. This plant contains calcium oxalate crystals which can lead to vomiting, drooling, problems swallowing or breathing, and irritations. It should be positioned out of the reach of pets and small children. When handling it’s better to use gloves as contact may cause skin irritation. If you suspect a pet has ingested or chewed on this plant, call your veterinarian promptly.