Updated: March 16, 2023

Devil’s ivy, known scientifically as Epipremnum aureum, is a popular houseplant that is easy to care for and grows fast. Its trailing vines with heart-shaped leaves make it an ideal plant for indoor hanging baskets, wall climbing, or training onto a trellis. But how tall can a devil’s ivy plant grow?

Factors That Affect Devil’s Ivy Growth

Before we answer the question, it is important to note that several factors affect devil’s ivy growth. These include:

  • Light: Devil’s ivy thrives in bright, indirect light. Insufficient light can cause stunted growth or yellowing of leaves.
  • Water: Devil’s ivy prefers evenly moist soil but can tolerate some drought. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while under-watering can cause wilting and leaf drop.
  • Temperature: Devil’s ivy likes warm temperatures between 60°F and 85°F. Cold drafts or extreme heat can harm the plant.
  • Fertilizer: Devil’s ivy benefits from regular feeding during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced fertilizer every two weeks.

How Tall Can Devil’s Ivy Grow?

Now, back to the question: how tall can devil’s ivy grow? The answer depends on the growing conditions and the cultivar (variety) of the plant.

In general, devil’s ivy can grow up to 8 feet long in its natural habitat, which is the tropical forests of Southeast Asia. However, when grown indoors, devil’s ivy tends to stay smaller due to space constraints and lower light levels.

A mature devil’s ivy plant can reach up to 6 feet long if trained onto a trellis or allowed to hang freely. If you want your devil’s ivy to grow taller, you can encourage vertical growth by providing a taller support, such as a bamboo pole or a tall moss stick.

It is worth noting that devil’s ivy can also grow wider, forming dense foliage. To keep your plant in check, you can prune it regularly to control its size and shape.

How Fast Does Devil’s Ivy Grow?

Another common question about devil’s ivy is how fast it grows. The answer is that devil’s ivy can grow very fast under favorable conditions.

In optimal conditions of bright, indirect light, evenly moist soil, warm temperatures, and regular fertilization, devil’s ivy can grow up to 1-2 feet per year. This makes it an ideal plant for those who want to quickly fill up a space with lush greenery.

However, if the plant is kept in low light or neglected with irregular watering or feeding, its growth rate will slow down significantly.

FAQ

Can I grow devil’s ivy outdoors?

Devil’s ivy is a tropical plant that prefers warm temperatures and high humidity. It can be grown outdoors in warm climates (USDA zones 10-12) as a ground cover or a climbing plant. However, it is not frost-tolerant and will need protection from freezing temperatures.

Can I propagate devil’s ivy from cuttings?

Yes, devil’s ivy is easy to propagate from stem cuttings. Simply take a 4-6 inch cutting with at least one leaf node, remove the lower leaves, and place the cutting in water or moist soil until roots form. Once the roots are established, you can transplant the cutting into a pot with potting soil.

Does devil’s ivy need a lot of water?

Devil’s ivy prefers evenly moist soil but can tolerate some drought. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Be careful not to overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot.

Is devil’s ivy toxic to pets?

Yes, devil’s ivy contains calcium oxalate crystals that can cause oral irritation, drooling, and vomiting if ingested by pets. Keep the plant out of reach of pets and children, or choose a pet-safe alternative.

Conclusion

Devil’s ivy is a versatile and easy-to-grow houseplant that can add lush greenery to any indoor space. It can grow up to 6 feet tall if given the right conditions of bright, indirect light, evenly moist soil, warm temperatures, and regular fertilization. However, it is important to note that devil’s ivy growth rate and size can vary depending on the cultivar and growing conditions. With proper care and maintenance, your devil’s ivy plant can thrive for years and add beauty to your home.