When it comes to plants, confusion over names is commonplace. If you’ve ever called this plant “Pothos,” you’re in good company, but… did you know that this name is actually used incorrectly to refer to plants called Epipremnum or others called Scindapsus ?
So let's clear up one of the most common mistakes in the world of plants and I will help you discover the real name of this beautiful plant that you can also find in my shop!
Unlike other nurseries or shops, I decided to call it only by its name, rather than using all of them for commercial and research purposes, because that way you do nothing but feed this confusion. I think that people, both experts and non-experts, should know plants by their real names.
Epipremnum aureum: the correct name
Let's start from the base. The plant in the photo, which many know as "Pothos", and which is also called Scindapsus , is actually called Epipremnum . You can also find it in my shop: Epipremnum aureum , famous for its variegated leaves of creamy white and bright green, with a marble effect pattern.
But why all this confusion about names?
The story behind the confusion
The plant we now call Epipremnum aureum was originally classified as Scindapsus aureus . However, over the years, with the advances in botany, it was reclassified in the genus Epipremnum . The problem is that many continue to use the old name Scindapsus aureus , even though it is no longer correct.
And the name "Pothos" ? This has also become a common mistake. "Pothos" is actually the name of a completely different genus of plants, which does not include Epipremnum aureum . Yet, today many people continue to refer to this plant with the term "Pothos", probably because it is easier to remember and has now become rooted in common language.
How to find out the correct name of plants
If you've ever wondered if your plant's name was correct, don't worry: you're not alone! Tons of nurseries, shops, and even Instagram or TikTok influencers continue to use these names incorrectly (and sometimes I do, too).
But there is a way to avoid any doubt: the website of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew , one of the most famous botanical gardens in the world, has created a platform called Plants of the World Online .
This incredible tool allows you to search over 1.2 million plants, providing correct scientific names, synonyms and even common names. It is an essential reference for anyone who wants to be sure of the name of their plant.
Epipremnum aureum: a must for your indoor plant collection
Now that you know all about the history of this plant's name, let's talk about its beauty! Epipremnum aureum is a plant loved for its unique leaves, characterized by yellow or white spots and light green that add an elegant and fresh touch to any environment. It is also an extremely easy plant to care for, perfect for those who do not have a green thumb but want a greener home.
Where to find it?
If you are looking for this wonderful plant, I invite you to visit my shop! I have in stock some beautiful specimens of Epipremnum aureum ready to be adopted. Click here to discover them.
And don’t forget: if you’re ever in doubt about a plant’s name, Kew Gardens and their Plants of the World Online site are an invaluable resource for finding out the truth.
Thanks for reading, and now... go get your Epipremnum aureum before it runs out!
