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Looking to discover your new favorite plant family? Introducing Scindapsus plants!
Much-loved house plants across the globe, you may have seen these leafy, climbing vine plants taking pride of place on bookshelves and coffee tables in many happy homes. Their distinct vibrant green leaves set them apart from other house plants and their easy-to-care-for nature means they are the low-maintenance house plant we all love to love!
But with different Scindapsus types available, understanding this plant genus can feel a little overwhelming…
We’re here to help! Here’s everything you need to know about Scindapsus plants, including how to grow Scindapsus plants, some common Scindapsus types, and the most important tips for Scindapsus care.
What Are Scindapsus Plants?
Scindapsus is the genus name of a climbing vine variety of plants belonging to the Araceae family, originating from South East Asia. Scindapsus plants are recognizable for their green vines packed with plush leaves, which can vary slightly in size and color depending on the type.
Although Scindapsus plants can flower, this is generally rare. When they do flower, you will see a short spadix with a central spathe, not dissimilar to a peace lily flower. Similar to Epipremnum plants, Scindapsus plants are distinct in their ability to release just one seed per ovary, rather than several. However, Scindapsus plants and Epipremnum plants are so similar that they are often confused. Take the Golden Pothos for example - it has often been called a Scindapsus in the past, but it’s botanical name is Epipremnum Aureum!
Today, Scindapsus plants are known for making fantastic house plants. Why? Because Scindapsus care is generally easy to do at home and there are many Scindapsus types that make great leafy statements in your home.
What Are The Different Types Of Scindapsus Plants?
There are around 20-25 species of plants in the Scindapsus family. This includes some big names. Here are some you may recognize…
- Scindapsus pictus: also known as the Satin Pothos, this Scindapsus type is known for its big silvery vine leaves.
- Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’: otherwise known as Silver Splash, this variety from the arum family can be recognized by its matt mottled silver leaves.
- Scindapsus treubii: also called Sterling Silver, this Scindapsus type is a rare variety much-loved for its thick dark leaves.
- Epipremnum aureum: formally known as the Scindapsus aureum, the Epipremnum aureum (otherwise known as a Golden Pothos) is not technically a Scindapsus, but it is so similar that it has been called a Scindapsus in the past! With its bright green leaves, this Scindapsus/Epipremnum is a much-loved fan favorite!
Do Scindapsus Plants Make Good House plants?
Yes! Here’s why… In general, Scindapsus plants are easy-to-care-for low-maintenance house plants that don't need much attention to be able to thrive. Not only is Scindapsus care very easy, but NASA’s Clean Air study also proved it to be one of the most effective plants for purifying the air of harmful particles. Who wouldn’t want to have that in their home?
How To Grow Scindapsus Plants?
As evergreen tropical plants that are members of the Arum family, almost all Scindapsus plants make great house plants that are easy to grow indoors. That’s because they can survive without too much light or water. Like all plants, growing a healthy Scindapsus plant involves giving it the right balance of water, light, soil, and humidity. Check out our Scindapsus Care Guide below to find out more!
Your Scindapsus Care Guide:
Caring for Scindapsus plants, like the low-maintenance Satin Pothos Scindapsus Pictus, could not be easier. Here’s everything you need to know…
Light
In general, Scindapsus plants don’t thrive under bright, direct light as this can scorch their leaves. Depending on the Scindapsus type, too little light can also mean that your plant loses its variegation. To allow your Scindapsus plant to truly live its best life, opt for a spot in your home that is well lit, but doesn’t get too much sunlight.
Water
Like other houseplants, too much water can cause root rot in Scindapsus plants. The best way to provide optimum Scindapsus care? Wait for the top inch of soil to dry between waterings and make sure your plant is in a pot with good drainage available. Misting the leaves of your Scindapsus plant is another way to earn some brownie points, as this keeps it hydrated, but not too moist.
Soil
Picking soil with good drainage is another great way to encourage your Scindapsus plant to thrive. A shop-bought potting mix containing peat moss and bark is a great way of ensuring your plant can easily dry out.
Temperature
Most Scindapsus types can withstand cooler temperatures for short periods, although they prefer to sit in temperatures of around 18 to 29°C, so not letting your house get too cold is a good idea.
Humidity
Many Scindapsus plant types (like the Scindapsus Pictus) enjoy a little extra humidity in their lives. In fact, if they don’t get it, the tips of their leaves may go a little brown. To resolve this, simply give your plant a good misting with some water, or pop your plant on a tray of damp pebbles.
To sum it all up…
After reading this beginner’s guide, there’s only one thing you should be doing… Going out to get your own Scindapsus plant now. Whether you are a beginner to the Scindapsus genus or a seasoned Scindapsus carer, this low-maintenance leafy plant was made to be a house plant, and deserves a spot in your home!
With various different types available, all you have to do is pick your favorite, and enjoy the advantages these vines have to offer! So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to get those green fingers waggling!
