Scindapsus pictus

Satin Pothos, Silver Pothos, Silk Pothos, Silver Vine

Easy careSemi-epiphyteMildly toxic30150 cm

Native to the shaded understorey of tropical rainforests across Southeast Asia — from Bangladesh through Malesia — Scindapsus pictus is a hemiepiphytic climber that naturally scrambles up tree trunks using aerial rootlets. Indoors it is grown for its heart-shaped leaves: a matte, deep green surface scattered with irregular silver patches that give it a satin-like sheen. One of the most adaptable aroids available, it tolerates lower humidity and lower light than most tropical climbers, making it a reliable choice for both open and closed terrarium setups. In enclosed, warm conditions it can grow vigorously — smaller cultivars like 'Argyraeus' are better suited to compact terrariums than the large-leafed 'Exotica'.

Build a terrarium with this plant

Care

Light

Indirect light(preferred)Shade tolerantBright indirect

Humidity

High (60–80%)(preferred)Medium (40–60%)

Temperature

10°C25°C40°C
15°C29°C

Soil

Well draining(preferred)Peat mossLoamy

Moisture

Moist(preferred)

Soil pH

5.5 – 6.5

Appearance

Growth habit

TrailingClimbing

Leaf shape

Heart

Leaf texture

Velvety

Distribution

Propagation

Take a 10 cm tip cutting with at least one node and one or two leaves. Root in water or moist perlite — roots typically appear within 4 weeks. Once rooted, pot into a well-draining mix and keep warm and consistently moist. Spring or early summer gives the best results, though cuttings root reliably year-round with adequate warmth.