Manjula pothos is one of those stunningly beautiful and unique plants that every enthusiastic gardener should have.
Unlike other pothos plants, this trailing vine results from branch mutations selected over several years from a group of plants.
The creator, Hansoki, experimented with the brightest variegation and shorter internodes until he came up with Manjula pothos, a breathtaking trailing plant that adds beauty to any home space.
Manjula pothos has heart-shaped leaves adorned with shades of silver, cream, green and white variegation. One unique feature about this plant is that its leaves vary in coloring and markings.
Plant recommendation: Seeking inspiration, then check out the South Asian Peacock.
What are Manjula pothos plants?
Manjula is the newest cultivar of pothos. It has large, undulating leaves with a mixture of green, cream, silver and white patterns.
Looking at its magnificent variegation, it’s easy to assume that it’s a product of the Marble Queen and N’joy plants.
Manjula is popularly referred to as a happy leaf, and it’s easy to see why. The mixture of colors in its leaves is bound to brighten up anyone’s moods.
Thinking of becoming a parent to Manjula pothos? Here are some of the fundamental aspects of the plant that you need to know:
Quick summary
Botanical Plant name: Epipremnum aureum.
Native: Patented variety developed at the University of Florida.
Care: Does not require too much care. An ideal choice for both beginner and seasoned gardeners.
Size: Indoor plants will grow to about 6 feet in height.
Common problems: Not prone to pest infestations. However, intruders like scale insects, mealybugs and spider mites may occasionally bother your plants.
Toxicity: Toxic to both pets and humans if ingested.
Plant inspiration: Need a tropical look for your home, then check out the South American Calathea.
How to care for Manjula pothos
This magnificent plant is generally carefree but, here are some important aspects that are important to note when caring for Manjula pothos:
Sunlight
This plant survives in most light conditions. But just like it is with other tropical vines, indirect sunlight is preferable to direct sunlight.
However, Manjula needs brighter light than the other pothos varieties because of the white leaves.
Watering
One good thing about this plant is its tolerance to drought-like conditions. Manjula pothos only needs water once every 2 to 3 weeks. And gets content with even one inch of the surface being watered.
Humidity & Temperature
Manjula pothos plants thrive in high humidity, anything in the range of 60-90%. Even though it prefers high humidity, it can also withstand drier conditions with the help of a humidifier.
As far as temperature, the Manjula pothos is happy with temperatures ranging between 50-95°F (10-35°C).
Cleaning
Cleaning the leaves is an integral part of caring for this plant. Use a damp cloth to gently wipe the leaves as often as possible.
This will help maintain the shiny attractive look that is synonymous with Manjula pothos leaves as well as its overall health.
Fertilizing & Soil
Manjula Pothos do not need too much fertilizing, especially if you plan to use a high-quality store-bought soil mix.
A substrate with an acidic to neutral pH can give your plant all the necessary nutrients needed for several months.
During the plant’s growing period, apply liquid fertilizer at least once every two weeks to help promote healthy growth.
Repotting
Although this plant does not grow very fast compared to other pothos species such as Marble queen pothos and Golden pothos, it can become pot-bound with time.
It is therefore important to repot the moment you notice the roots protruding from the drainage holes of your pot or when the roots have grown too big for the container that they are clumping together.
When repotting your plant, use a container that is at least 2 sizes bigger than the current one. This will give your roots enough space to grow.
How and when to prune
Unless you prune your Manjula pothos regularly, your plant will continue trailing and acquiring a thinner look. For a bushy look, prune your plant as often as needed.
Use a sharp knife or pair of scissors to prune your plant.
Cut just below the leaf node. This will give room for new growth.
Problems with Manjula pothos
Despite being an easy to grow and carefree plant, Manjula pothos may face common houseplant problems.
Root rot is one of those problems. Usually, this is caused by giving your plant too much water and the lack of drainage holes in your pot.
Infestation from pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale is another common problem that may face this trailing plant.
To sidestep these issues, provide enough water drainage, avoid overcrowding your plants and overwatering.
For the pests already present on the plants, apply insecticides or pesticides or spray your plant with soapy water.
How to propagate
There are two methods used to propagate the Manjula pothos; water and soil propagations.
Water propagation
- Cut a healthy stem of at least 2 inches in length.
- Place the cutting in a clean jar filled with purified water.
- Change the water every 2-3 days to avoid bacteria build-up
- After a week or two or when the roots have developed to about 1 inch, transplant your cutting to its permanent location.
Soil propagation
- Using your scissors, snip about 2 inches of the stem from the main plant.
- Plant it in damp potting soil.
- Place the container in a warm area where it will receive plenty of indirect sunlight.
- Water the cutting whenever the soil is dry.
- Given the proper care, your cuttings should root out in a month or so.
FAQs about Manjula pothos
How much light does Manjula pothos need?
Manjula Pothos plants thrive in low to bright indirect light. Make sure to not expose your plant to direct sunlight.
What is so special about Manjula pothos?
Manjula has more variegated leaves and the leaves are wavy-edged and not flat laying like those of other pothos.
Is Manjula pothos a good indoor plant?
Yes. Manjula pothos plants make great indoor additions. In addition to being natural air purifiers, they also transform your home or office space with their striking silver-cream variegated leaves.
Can Manjula pothos survive in low light?
Yes. However, the variegation may disappear after some time if your plant is exposed to too little light for long periods.
Plant recommendation: does your home need a spark of lightness, then check out Japanese Lilium auratum.
Summary
Manjula pothos is a low-growing, compact plant with dense foliage. Its variegated leaves come in green, cream, silver and white. Each leaf is different, with color combinations and patterns that vary.
Due to the unique variegation of Manjula pothos leaves, it has a slow growth habit compared to the other types of pothos.
It’s a perfect indoor plant best suited for hanging baskets.