The striking vining plant Scindapsus Pictus ‘Exotica’ has large, heart-shaped dark-green leaves with silvery-white splashes. The Scindapsus Pictus ‘Exotica’ stems with their silky green and silver leaves transport the tropics to your home. Satin Pothos, Silver Pothos, Philodendron Silver, and Silver Vine are some of the popular names for this tropical hanging basket plant. One of the simplest houseplants to maintain is the slow-growing Scindapsus ‘Exotica.
Indoors, a Scindapsus Pictus ‘Exotica’ may be cultivated in a variety of ways. It can be cultivated as a bushy tropical plant in pots, climbing up a moss pole, or adorning a hanging basket. The Scindapsus Pictus ‘Exotica’ houseplant is described in this article as a growing guide. You’ll learn how to overcome typical challenges when growing a Satin Pothos indoors at the conclusion of the article.
How to Care for Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’
Grow the vining big-leafed plant in indirect bright light and a loose, well-drained potting medium to care for Scindapsus Pictus ‘Exotica.’ Whenever the soil is mostly dry, water the Scindapsus ‘Exotica.’ Temperatures should be maintained between 65 and 85°F (18 and 29°C) with at least 50% humidity. During the growing season, fertilize every four weeks.
What is Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’?
Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’ is a blooming evergreen climbing plant that belongs to the Araceae family. It has gray and green variegated leaves. In USDA zones 10 through 12, the tropical twining plant thrives outdoors. It grows as a creeping plant on the ground in the shade or climbing up trees in its native habitat, which is humid, tropical regions of Asia.
Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’ is a slow-growing plant in the wild. It has up to 10-foot-tall (3-meter) climbing vines. In its native environment, the tropical plant also produces tiny flowers.
Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’ vines reach 3 feet (1 meter) in length when growing indoors. Cascading vines cascading from hanging baskets look stunning with dark green leaves with silvery blotches. The flowering of Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’ is unusual indoors.
The plant doesn’t belong to either species, despite being known as Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica,’ Satin Pothos, Silver Pothos, or Philodendron Silver. The silver “painted” effect on the gray-green variegated leaves earned it its botanical name, Scindapsus pictus.
Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’ Leaves
This is a desired houseplant because of the big, heart-shaped (cordate) leaves of Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica.’ The velvety feel of the leafy tropical foliage. The Scindapsus ‘Exotica’ plant has a lush, tropical appearance due to the dense oval, pointed leaves that develop thickly on the trailing vines.
The variegated cordate leaves have silvery markings that look like paint splashes. The silver blotches cover the majority of the leaf in comparison to Scandapsus pictus ‘Argyraeus.’ Silvery speckles cover approximately 60 to 90 percent of the surface of the plant’s leaves.
Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’ Care Guide
The ideal way to cultivate a Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’ at home will be discussed in depth below.
Where to Grow Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’
Because it’s a stunning exotic houseplant, Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’ is an appropriate name. In a bright location, the trailing leafy vines thrive. Satin Pothos can be grown in a hanging basket near a sunny window, if possible. In a high shelf or bookcase, the dangling 3-foot (1-meter) vines are absolutely stunning.
With the proper pruning, you may grow a bushy Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’ to decorate a table or desk. Because it thrives in a bedroom, office, or north-facing room because to its tolerance of shade, it’s a great plant. The pothos-like plant thrives on being kept in a bathroom, where the higher humidity aids it to develop quicker.
Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’ Light Requirements
Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’ thrives in a sunny location as long as it’s protected from direct sunlight. The vivid silver and green variegation on the heart-shaped silky leaves needs bright light to keep it vibrant. If the sun is in full light for too long, however, the leaves may be scorched or bleached.
A shade-tolerant plant, Scindapsus ‘Exotica’ However, it’s important to keep in mind that excessive shading may cause the gorgeous variegation to fade. Move the ‘Exotica’ plant to a brighter location if you notice that the silver blotches are less apparent. The variegation should be restored and the lovely foliage hues should improve as a result of the extra light.
The Best Soil for Growing Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’
In fertile, well-draining soil, sow Grow Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica.’ three parts peat moss, one part shredded bark, and one part perlite make a homemade potting mix for pothos plants. You can alternatively purchase a commercial potting soil for succulents, which you may dilute with gravel or perlite for drainage.
Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’ should have a potting soil that is moisture retaining while remaining dry in the root zone. Peat moss is a ideal soilless medium because it’s light and airy while retaining moisture. Perlite, gravel, pumice, and charcoal are examples of soil amendments that oxygenate the soil and speed up water drainage.
How to Water Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’ Houseplants
Only when the top 2 inches (5 cm) of soil is dry does Water Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’ grow. The pothos plant may need watering once or twice a week during the summer. You may lower watering frequency to once every two weeks or so during the winter. You risk root rot if the soil gets too wet.
Soaking the soil thoroughly with filtered water at room temperature is the best way to water Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica.’ Before putting the pothos pot back on the drip tray, allow the excess water to drain away. Make sure the top layer of soil is dry before watering the Scindapsus pictus plant again.
Since it is on the list of low-maintenance houseplants, Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’ does not need to be watered often. overwatering a hanging basket pothos plant is one of the worst things you can do to it. Roots rot in overly wet soil. The abundant, tropical foliage is deprived of nutrients when root rot strikes. Sticky stems, weak development, and yellow foliage are the consequences. The Scindapsus Exotica will die in the worst-case scenario. Take healthy cuttings from the plant and propagate it if root rot is severe.
Scindapsus ‘Exotica’ Temperature Guide
Temperatures of 65 to 85°F (18 to 29°C) are ideal for Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica.’ As a result, indoors grows of Satin Pothos are optimum at room temperatures. Make sure the temperature doesn’t drop below 60°F (16°C); otherwise, the plant’s leaves may perish. Additionally, Scandapsus Exotica plants prefer a consistent temperature.
Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’ plants may be stressed by household heating and cooling. Drafty windows, for instance, might negatively impact plant growth via air-conditioning. If the plant is too close to a heat vent or the air is too dry, household heating during the winter may harm the foliage.
In USDA zones 11 and 12, as well as zone 10, you can grow Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica.’ The hanging basket pothos may be used to add foliage to a patio or balcony in the summer in temperate areas. But if the temperature drops below 60°F (16°C), you’ll have to bring the plant indoors.
Scindapsus ‘Exotica’ Humidity Requirements
When growing indoors, Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’ requires a medium level of humidity. Relative humidifiers should range from 40% to 50%. Higher humidity, on the other hand, is better for the plant. If you notice browning on the tips, you may need to increase air moisture levels.
Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’ adapts well to drier, indoor air despite its tropical ancestry. You’ll also want to make sure that the plant receives sufficient air circulation and never becomes too dry.
If you should mist the Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’ plants, Misting can helpensure that the leaves have enoughwater. Keeping tropical plants humid is, however, not the ideal solution. Potting the pot on a pebble and water tray, grouping houseplants together, or purchasing a humidifier are all better ways to increase humidity.
Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’ Growth Rate
The growth rate of Scindapsus ‘Exotica’ vines is usually sluggish. The long, leafy stems grow to be about 3 feet (1 meter) in length after a few years.
Maximizing growing conditions speeds up development. This entails maintaining warm, humid conditions for the ‘Exotica’ plant and watering it only when required.
How to Fertilize Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’
In the spring and summer, fertilize Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’ once a month. A diluted, balanced houseplant fertilizer is beneficial to the large-leaf vining plant. Regular fertilizing aid in the fast development and preservation of the delicate dark-green and silver leaves.
After watering, apply diluted fertilizer to fertilize Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’ every four weeks. It’s a good idea to flush the soil every three to four months to prevent mineral salts from building up. Root burn is prevented, which may lead to browning and unattractive leaves.
In late autumn and winter, Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’ growth becomes nearly dormant. As a result, you should refrain from fertilizing throughout those months. You should also ensure that the plant’s soil gets enough water to stay moist but not soggy.
How to Prune Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’ Plant
Trim the lengthy stems of Prune Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’ to the required length. Cutting just below a node is an excellent method to grow a bushy ‘Exotica’ plant since it encourages new growth.
Pruning leggy stems with few leaves growing improves the look of a satin pothos plant. To boost the plant’s look and health, you should also trim off yellow leaves and any dead or dying stems.
How to Propagate Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’
The best way to propagate Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’ is via stem cuttings, which should be removed from 5″ to 6″ (12 – 15 cm) long stems. Make sure there are at least three nodes and a few leaves on the vine when you cut the stems just below the node.
Remove the bottom leaves and place the vines in a jar of water to start rooting the stem cutting. For new roots to develop from the submerged node, wait two to three weeks. Put the rooted pothos cutting in indirect bright light, transfer it to a pot with fresh potting soil, and water it well.
The Scindapsus pictus stem cutting is directly put in the ground as another propagation technique. Seal the pot in a plastic bag if you plan to use this method. To keep the soil moist, mist it every so often. To speed up root growth, you create a humid environment in this way. You may remove the covering and grow pothos normally after three to four weeks.
Repotting Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’ Plant
Repotting Scindapsus ‘Exotica’ every two years is a good idea. More growth is encouraged and the potting soil can be refreshed by transferring the vining tropical plant to a bigger pot.
You may examine the roots for signs of rot or damage while repotting. Roots extending out of the pot, sluggish development, and water pooling on the soil’s surface are all indicators that it’s time to repot a Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica.’
Removing the plant from its current pot is simple for repotting a tropical Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica.’ From the roots, remove any extra soil. Any roots with signs of rot should be removed as soon as possible. Plant the pothos houseplant in a new, somewhat bigger pot with the appropriate soil.
Top Scindapsus ‘Exotica’ care tip: Because this may cause drainage problems, keep the soil moist, and encourage root rot, don’t pick a container that is too big.
Is Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’ Houseplant Toxic?
Dogs, cats, and other pets are poisonous to Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica.’ Plants in the Scindapsus pictus species contain insoluble calcium oxalates, according to the ASCPA. This harmful chemical may cause extreme irritation, resulting in excessive drooling, oral swelling, and swallowing difficulties. Skin itching, dermatitis, and burning on human skin are all symptoms of sap from Satin Pothos plants.
Pests Affecting Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’ Growth
The hardy Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’ has a high tolerance for pests and enjoys moderate success. The two most common insects that affect plant growth are scale insects and spider mites. The best strategy to get rid of pests is to identify the common signs of houseplant pests early on. Scindapsus ‘Exotica’ plant leaves have thin, strand-like webs that Spider mites are easily recognized by. On stems, scales appear as rough, brown growths.
What are the best ways to get rid of pests from Satin Pothos plants? To get rid of bugs on a Satin Pothos, mix 2 tsp. of bug spray together: 1 tsp. of neem oil 1 quart (1 liter) of water and a little liquid dish soap In a spray bottle, mix the ingredients. Spray the plant’s leaves with a liberal amount of natural neem oil pesticide and allow it to dry. For the best results, repeat every seven days.
Diseases Affecting Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’ Growth
Overwatering is the most prevalent ailment that affects Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica.’ When the tropical plant’s roots get waterlogged, it is said to root rot. Fungal infections kill the root system when soggy soil is present. The stems may darken and disintegrate, while the leaves will turn yellow over time.
Always water the plant when the soil is mostly dry to prevent Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’ from developing root rot. In this manner, you ensure that the earth does not get too saturated for an extended period.
What should you do if you spot signs of root rot? It’s usually best to repot the Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’ in fresh potting soil. Prune any roots that show signs of decay. However, if most of the roots are rotten, it’s best to take cuttings from healthy vines and propagate new pothos plants.
Caring for Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’ — FAQs
A low-maintenance vining houseplant is Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica.’ The tropical houseplant should pose you few difficulties if you keep it in a well-lit area and water it correctly. However, the ‘Exotica’ plant may seem to be under stress from time to time. The Satin Pothos variations are commonly afflicted with the following issues.
How can I make Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’ plants grow faster?
When Scindapsus pictus grows in ideal indoor conditions, it grows the fastest. Indirect sunlight, watering, and keeping the plant away from temperature extremes are all necessary for this. The Scindapsus exotica plant may reach a height of 3 feet (1 meter).
Why are Scindapsus ‘Exotica’ plant leaves turning brown?
The leaf tips of Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’ become brown when the humidity level is too low. By putting the pot on a pebble and water tray, you can increase humidity. The tropical houseplant may be exposed to too much bright light, resulting in the brown leaves.
Why are Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’ leaves turning yellow?
Overwatering is frequently indicated by yellow leaves on a Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica.’ The roots become waterlogged when the soil is soggy, preventing nutrients from being absorbed. As a consequence, the leaves become pale and yellow and are starved.
Why are my Scindapsus pictus leaves curling?
The velvety heart-shaped green and silver pothos leaves may curl for a variety of reasons. Too much dry heat, underwatering, or insufficient sunlight may be responsible for the curled foliage. Water the plant occasionally and put it in sufficient light to ensure that the tropical plants have enough humidity.
How do I bring my silver pothos (Scindapsus pictus ‘Exotica’) back to life?
It is crucial to find the underlying cause for poor development in order to revitalize a dying Scindapsus ‘Exotica. Root rot is the leading cause of death in Silver Pothos plants. Repot the plant in fresh soil if the soil is damp. Underwatering, too much direct sunlight, and a lack of humidity are other reasons your pothos is dying.