The first time a Shangri La Pothos caught my eye at a local plant swap, I did a double take. It looked like a Pothos that had been through a wind tunnel in the best way. Its curly foliage twisted and folded like green origami, and I was hooked. This low-maintenance houseplant brings the boldness of a tropical plant without the high-maintenance drama.
Often called the “Sleeping Pothos,” it’s gaining fans fast for its compact shape, air-purifying charm, and just plain weird-beautiful vibes. If you’re looking to shake up your houseplant lineup, this one’s a conversation starter.
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Plant profile: What makes it special?
Botanically known as Epipremnum aureum ‘Shangri-La’, this quirky member of the Aroid family brings a lot of character in a compact package. Unlike the classic Golden Pothos, which grows in long, sleek vines, the Shangri La Pothos features crinkled, variegated leaves that curl inward like green scrolls.
It still sends out those familiar aerial roots, making it a strong contender for a trellis or a moss pole if you’re into training your plants. Its upright yet compact growth habit makes it perfect for shelves, desktops, or hanging baskets where the leaves can spill out in a tight, curly cascade. It’s a bold twist on a classic Pothos and a fun one to watch grow.
Ideal conditions for healthy growth
The Shangri La Pothos does best in bright indirect light, which helps keep its curly leaves vibrant and bold. It can handle lower light if needed, but the foliage tends to lose some of its punch. Keep it in a spot where temps stay between 65 and 85°F.
Avoid placing it near cold drafts or heaters since sudden changes stress it out. As a humidity-loving plant, it perks up with a little extra moisture in the air. A humidity tray, regular misting, or a humidifier nearby will do the trick.
For soil, stick with a well-draining mix that includes perlite, coco coir, or peat moss to prevent soggy roots. While this is one of those air-purifying houseplants that’s great for improving indoor air, it’s not fully pet-safe. The leaves contain calcium oxalate crystals, so be cautious if you have curious pets or little ones exploring with their mouths.
| Care Aspect | Details |
| Light | Bright, indirect light; tolerates low light but with less vibrancy |
| Watering | Water when top 2 inches of soil are dry; avoid overwatering |
| Soil | Well-draining mix with perlite, coco coir, or peat moss |
| Temperature | Ideal range: 65–85°F; avoid cold drafts |
| Humidity | High humidity preferred; misting or humidifier helps |
| Fertilizing | Balanced liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks in spring/summer |
| Pruning | Prune leggy growth; pinch tips to encourage bushiness |
| Propagation | Stem cuttings with node; root in water or moist soil |
| Common issues | Leaf curl, yellowing, root rot, spider mites, mealybugs, aphids |
| Toxicity | Contains calcium oxalate; keep away from pets and small children |
Watering like a pro
When it comes to watering your Shangri La Pothos, less is more. Wait until the top 2 inches of soil feel dry before grabbing the watering can. Always use room-temperature water and make sure to empty any saucers underneath so the roots don’t sit in moisture. Soggy roots can lead to root rot, which is a fast track to sad, mushy stems and yellow leaves. That’s a classic sign of overwatering.
On the flip side, wilting or curling leaves often mean it’s too dry. If you’re not sure, poke a finger into the soil before watering. A simple watering schedule can help, but don’t be afraid to tweak it with the seasons. Cooler months? Water less. Warmer months? Maybe a little more.
Feeding and fertilizing Shangri La Pothos
Fertilizing Shangri La Pothos is simple. During spring and summer, use a balanced liquid fertilizer like 20-20-20 every 4 to 6 weeks to support healthy growth. Once fall hits, cut back to avoid stressing the plant. Be careful not to go overboard.
Over-fertilization can lead to salt build-up in the soil, which often shows up as leaf browning or crispy tips. When in doubt, less is better. A well-fed plant is happy, but an overfed one quickly throws a fit.
Pruning and encouraging busy growth
Pruning Shangri La Pothos is key to keeping it healthy and lush. Use clean pruning shears to snip away any leggy or discolored stems. To promote bushier growth, pinch off the tips of new vines regularly. This tells the plant to branch out instead of growing long and spindly.
If you’re aiming for height, consider adding a moss pole to support vertical climbing. Pruning not only shapes the plant but also helps prevent pests by eliminating hiding spots and boosting air circulation. With a little routine trimming, your Pothos stays full, happy, and thriving in any indoor space.
Propagation: Make more plants!
Propagation is a fun and easy way to grow your Shangri La Pothos collection. Just take stem cuttings with at least one healthy node. You can root them in water or plant them straight into moist potting soil. If you go the water route, roots usually start forming in about two to three weeks.
Once those roots are a couple of inches long, transplant into soil for continued growth. Propagation is perfect for indoor plant care lovers who want to expand their green space or share the love. Gifting cuttings is a great way to connect and grow someone else’s jungle too.
Shangri La Pothos: Common problems and pests
Common problems with Shangri La Pothos include leaf curl, yellowing leaves, and root rot from overwatering. Poor drainage or soggy soil is often the culprit. On the pest side, keep an eye out for spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. These tiny invaders can damage leaves and stunt growth. For pest control, try neem oil, insecticidal soap, or gently wiping leaves with a damp cloth.
Regular inspections help catch issues early and keep things under control. Good air circulation also goes a long way in preventing mold and pest infestations. Staying ahead of these problems keeps your Pothos thriving and looking great.
Toxicity: Pet owners take note
Shangri La Pothos toxicity is something pet owners should know about. It contains calcium oxalate crystals that can irritate the mouth and stomach if ingested. Keep it out of reach of pets and little ones. If you have sensitive skin, wear gloves while pruning to avoid any potential irritation.
Why Shangri La belongs in your home
Shangri La Pothos brings bold beauty, easy indoor plant care, and air-purifying perks all in one. Its unique crinkled leaves and low-maintenance nature make it a standout choice for both new plant parents and seasoned collectors.
As a beginner-friendly houseplant, it fits into any space with style. Give it a try and see the charm for yourself. Have questions or want to show off your growing success? Drop a comment or share your photos. Let’s grow this leafy community together.
