Manjula Pothos is a patented cultivar developed by the University of Florida. It belongs to the pothos family but has a distinct identity due to:
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Wide, heart-shaped, wavy-edged leaves
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Random variegation of white, cream, silver, and green
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Slower growth compared to Golden or Neon Pothos
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Compact, bushy growth when pruned properly
Also called “Jade Pothos” in some regions (not to be confused with the solid green Jade Pothos).
Benefits of Manjula Pothos
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Stunning, artistic variegation
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Great for table tops, hanging baskets, or shelves
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Low maintenance and beginner-friendly
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Filters toxins and improves indoor air quality
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Grows in soil or water
⚠️ Note: Manjula Pothos is toxic to cats, dogs, and humans if ingested.
Manjula Pothos Care Overview
| Element | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Light | Bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sun. |
| Watering | Water when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry. |
| Soil | Well-draining, peat-based potting mix with perlite. |
| Humidity | Average to high humidity is ideal. Mist if air is dry. |
| Temperature | 18–30°C (65–85°F). Avoid cold drafts. |
| Fertilizer | Monthly during spring/summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer. |
| Repotting | Every 1–2 years or when rootbound. Use a pot with drainage holes. |
Light Needs for Healthy Variegation
Manjula Pothos needs bright, indirect light to maintain its beautiful variegation. If kept in low light:
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Leaves may turn mostly green
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Growth slows down
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Variegation becomes less visible
Tip: Near an east- or north-facing window is ideal. Use a grow light if needed.
How Often to Water Manjula Pothos
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Water when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry
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Avoid letting it sit in soggy soil
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Always use pots with drainage holes
Overwatering Signs:
Yellow leaves, root rot, soft stems
Underwatering Signs:
Wilting, curling leaves, dry soil
How to Propagate Manjula Pothos
Like other pothos varieties, Manjula is easy to propagate from cuttings.
Water Propagation:
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Cut 4–6 inch vine below a node
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Place in clean water in a glass jar
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Keep in bright, indirect light
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Change water every 7–10 days
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Roots form in 2–4 weeks
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Transfer to soil when roots are 2–3 inches long
Soil Propagation:
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Place the same cutting directly in moist, well-draining soil
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Keep warm and lightly watered until rooted
Growth Rate: Why Manjula Is Slower
Manjula Pothos grows more slowly than Golden or Neon Pothos. This is due to its heavy white variegation, which reduces the plant’s ability to photosynthesize efficiently.
To boost growth:
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Keep it in bright light (but not direct sun)
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Fertilize monthly
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Prune regularly to encourage new vines
Pruning and Training Tips
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Trim leggy or overly long vines
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Cut just above a node to encourage bushier growth
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Use a moss pole if you want vertical climbing
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Replant cuttings in the same pot for a fuller look
Common Problems and How to Fix Them
| Problem | Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Yellow leaves | Overwatering or poor drainage | Let the soil dry, repot if needed |
| Brown edges | Dry air or inconsistent watering | Increase humidity, water regularly |
| Faded variegation | Low light | Move to brighter spot |
| Curling leaves | Underwatering or cold air | Water and keep in warm spot |
| Root rot | Waterlogged soil | Remove damaged roots, repot |
Manjula Pothos vs Other Pothos Varieties
| Variety | Leaf Appearance | Growth Speed |
|---|---|---|
| Manjula | Wavy, white-cream-green mix | Slow |
| Marble Queen | White and green marbled | Slow |
| Golden Pothos | Green with yellow streaks | Fast |
| Neon Pothos | Bright lime-green leaves | Medium |
| Snow Queen | Mostly white variegation | Slowest |
Manjula is unique for its wavy leaves and artistic, unpredictable variegation.
Can Manjula Pothos Grow in Water?
Yes, Manjula Pothos can live in water indefinitely. Here’s how:
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Use a clear jar
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Change water weekly
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Add liquid fertilizer monthly
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Place in bright, indirect light
Great option for desks or shelves.
Is Manjula Pothos Safe for Pets?
No. Like all pothos plants, Manjula is toxic to cats, dogs, and humans if eaten. It contains insoluble calcium oxalates, which can cause:
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Mouth irritation
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Drooling
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Vomiting
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Swelling of the tongue and throat
Keep it out of reach of pets and small children.
Best Spots to Place Manjula Pothos
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Living Room: On shelves, cabinets, or hanging baskets
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Bedroom: Calming foliage near a bright window
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Bathroom: Enjoys humidity (if enough light)
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Office Desk: Clean and stylish, in water or pot
FAQs About Manjula Pothos
Q1: Is Manjula Pothos easy to care for?
A: Yes, it’s low-maintenance but needs bright light for best variegation.
Q2: Why are my Manjula leaves turning green?
A: It’s getting too little light. Move it to a brighter spot.
Q3: How fast does Manjula Pothos grow?
A: It grows slowly due to high variegation, but still steadily with good care.
Q4: Can I propagate Manjula like other pothos?
A: Yes, stem cuttings in water or soil work perfectly.
Q5: Does Manjula need misting?
A: It’s not required, but it helps if your home has dry air.
Final Thoughts
Manjula Pothos is a stunning indoor plant with a unique leaf pattern you won’t find in any other pothos. Its wavy, multicolored foliage makes it a standout in any collection.
It’s easy to grow, purifies the air, and adapts well to home or office environments. Just give it enough light, water wisely, and enjoy its quiet beauty.
A living work of art — perfect for plant lovers and beginners alike.
