Devil’s ivy

Devil’s ivy (Epipremnum aureum) is one of the most versatile plants to grow indoors. Even when confined to a small pot, it produces a generous amount of long, languid growth, which can trail for metres – you can even make a green curtain!

Who: This plant is ideal for new home owners, renters, renovators and offices, as it helps to cleanse the air of toxins.

Soil: For the best results, use a premium-quality potting mix to ensure good drainage and vigorous growth.

Food: Fertilise with slow-release fertiliser (every six months) and liquid fertiliser (every few weeks in warmer months) to encourage growth.

Maintenance: Sponge or spray leaves with water in the warmer months to remove any dust. Prune dead or damaged leaves.

Light: It is best grown in filtered light but can also cope in a position with little natural light.

Water: Between watering, allow potting mix to dry out. Requires less watering in lower light conditions.

Look for: Try ‘Marble Queen’, with creamy white variegations on glossy green leaves, or ‘Goldilocks’ with bright lime green leaves.

Propagating: Ask a friend or fellow indoor plant enthusiast for a cutting, as it is very easy to propagate.

Why: This common houseplant is adaptable to a range of conditions, making it the perfect plant for anyone new to indoor gardening. Its wandering stems can cascade over shelves and even trail up walls with the aid of a trellis or support.

Top tip: Devil’s ivy is happy to be confined. Try planting yours in a handmade ceramic planter, and pop it on a narrow shelf or windowsill.

For more indoor trailing plants, check out this article.

Text by Jason Chongue
Photo by Anna Hutchcroft