Live to Plant

Exotica Pothos Plant Roots and Stems:
an In-depth Look

Updated: October 19, 2022

The Exotica Pothos plant, also known as Epipremnum aureum ‘Exotica’, is a popular houseplant that can add life and color to any room. It has unique leaves with a mix of green, yellow, and white colors, making it a beautiful addition to any collection. However, the roots and stems of this plant are often overlooked, even though they play a crucial role in keeping the plant healthy.

In this article, we will take an in-depth look at the Exotica Pothos plant’s roots and stems, discussing their structure, function, care, and propagation.

Structure of Exotica Pothos Plant Roots

The Exotica Pothos plant has a fibrous root system that helps it absorb water and nutrients from the soil. Unlike other houseplants with tuberous roots, the Exotica Pothos’s roots are thin and spread out, allowing them to take up nutrients more efficiently. The roots are also covered with fine root hairs that increase their surface area and help absorb water and minerals.

Function of Exotica Pothos Plant Roots

The Exotica Pothos’s roots play a vital role in the overall health of the plant. They absorb water and essential nutrients from the soil and transport them to the rest of the plant. The roots also anchor the plant in place, preventing it from toppling over or getting damaged by strong winds.

Care for Exotica Pothos Plant Roots

To keep your Exotica Pothos plant healthy, you need to care for its roots properly. Here are some tips:

  • Water your plant regularly but avoid overwatering. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again.
  • Use well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
  • Fertilize your plant with a balanced fertilizer every two to three months to ensure it has enough nutrients.
  • Repot your Exotica Pothos plant every one to two years to ensure it has enough space for its roots.

Structure of Exotica Pothos Plant Stems

The Exotica Pothos plant has long, trailing stems that can grow up to 10 feet long in the wild. The stems are green, with a glossy texture and a slightly grooved surface. The stems produce leaves at regular intervals, creating a lush canopy that can cover walls and trellises.

Function of Exotica Pothos Plant Stems

The Exotica Pothos’s stems play an important role in the plant’s growth and survival. They transport water and nutrients from the roots to the leaves and store food reserves for future use. The stems also help the plant climb and attach itself to surfaces, allowing it to grow vertically and horizontally.

Care for Exotica Pothos Plant Stems

To keep your Exotica Pothos plant’s stems healthy, you need to care for them properly. Here are some tips:

  • Provide support for the stems by using a trellis, stake, or wall-mounted hooks.
  • Prune the stems regularly to control their growth and shape the plant. You can cut back overgrown stems to encourage branching and promote new growth.
  • Clean the stems regularly with a damp cloth or sponge to remove dust and debris that can clog up the plant’s pores.

Propagation of Exotica Pothos Plant

The Exotica Pothos plant is relatively easy to propagate using stem cuttings. Here’s how:

  • Choose a healthy stem with at least three leaves.
  • Cut off a section of the stem just below a leaf node.
  • Remove the lower leaves from the cutting, leaving only one or two at the top.
  • Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone powder.
  • Plant the cutting in a pot filled with well-draining soil.
  • Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a bright, indirect light.
  • Wait for roots to develop, which usually takes two to four weeks.
  • Once the roots have formed, you can transplant the new plant into a larger pot.

FAQ Section

How often should I water my Exotica Pothos plant?

Water your Exotica Pothos plant once a week, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.

How big do Exotica Pothos plants grow?

Exotica Pothos plants can grow up to 10 feet long in the wild, but they usually stay smaller when grown indoors.

Can I grow an Exotica Pothos plant in low light?

Yes, Exotica Pothos plants can tolerate low light conditions, but they grow best in bright, indirect light.

How often should I fertilize my Exotica Pothos plant?

Fertilize your Exotica Pothos plant every two to three months with a balanced fertilizer.