Scindapsus pictus image • Photo: Author Kor!An (Корзун Андрей)• GFDL
Scindapsus pictus is an evergreen climbing liana with matte, seafoam-pine green leaves adorned with silver blotches of variegation. It grows via a vining stem that produces sticky anchoring roots at nodes, enabling it to climb surfaces like trees, walls, or poles. The plant exhibits shingling behavior, flattening its leaves against supports to maximize light absorption under forest canopies. It grows slowly indoors (typically reaching 90 cm/35 in) but can extend up to 3 m (10 ft) outdoors with proper support.
Plant Care Overview
Buy this plant online:
Ad
Care Guide
Essential requirements for your Scindapsus pictus
Light Requirements
Bright indirect light
Light conditions can affect leaf color and growth rate. Adjust placement as needed based on your plant's response.
Watering Schedule
When top 2-3 inches of soil dry out
Humidity Needs
high humidity
Always check soil moisture before watering. Adjust frequency based on your home's conditions.
Temperature Range
15-29°C (59-85°F)
Native Climate
Native to Bangladesh, Borneo, India, Java, Peninsular Malaysia, Philippines, Sulawesi, Sumatra, Taiwan, Thailand
Keep away from drafts, heaters, and air conditioners which can stress your plant.
Soil Type
Well-draining aroid mix with perlite or orchid bark
Fertilizer
Balanced houseplant fertilizer during growing season
Consider repotting every 1-2 years to refresh soil nutrients and accommodate growth.
Propagation
Methods to grow more Scindapsus pictus plants
Stem cuttings with nodes in water or soil, root division
Plant Info
Characteristics and background information
Bangladesh, Borneo, India, Java, Peninsular Malaysia, Philippines, Sulawesi, Sumatra, Taiwan, Thailand
slow
90 cm (35 in) indoors; up to 3 m (10 ft) outdoors with support
Perennial
Symptoms: Oral irritation, pain and swelling of mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing
Toxic parts: All parts contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals
Fun Fact
The plant's scientific name 'pictus' means 'painted' in Latin, referencing its natural silver leaf variegation that appears hand-painted.
Troubleshooting
Solutions for typical issues with your Scindapsus pictus
Yellowing leaves, mushy stems, foul soil odor
Reduced silver markings, smaller leaves
Visible mealybugs or spider mites, sticky residue on leaves
Varieties
Different varieties of Scindapsus pictus
Compact variety with smaller leaves
Large-leaf cultivar with bold variegation
Highly variegated form
Community Tips
Advice shared by other plant enthusiasts
No tips shared yet. Be the first to share your experience!
(Coming soon)
Ad
Care Guides
Detailed guides for caring for your Scindapsus pictus
Ad
Related Plants
Similar plants that might interest you
Nurseries Near You
Find Where to Buy Scindapsus pictus
Discover local nurseries near you that may carry this plant. We'll show you store ratings, hours, and directions.
Ad
Ad