Epipremnum aureum, commonly known as Golden Pothos, Devil’s Ivy, or Money Plant, is one of the most beloved houseplants worldwide. Known for its vibrant heart-shaped leaves streaked with gold or pale green, Golden Pothos is more than just a decorative plant—it offers a suite of benefits to human health, animal well-being, and the broader environment.
Origin and Botanical Profile
Golden Pothos is native to the Solomon Islands, a group of tropical islands in the South Pacific. As a tropical vine, it thrives in warm, humid climates and climbs or trails by producing aerial roots. While it rarely flowers outside its natural habitat, its lush foliage and adaptability have made it a global favorite in homes, offices, and public spaces.
Benefits for Humans
- Air
Purification
Golden Pothos is widely recognized for its air-purifying properties. NASA’s Clean Air Study identified it as effective in removing airborne pollutants such as: - Formaldehyde
- Benzene
- Xylene
- Toluene
By absorbing these toxins through its leaves and roots,
Golden Pothos helps improve indoor air quality, particularly in enclosed
or poorly ventilated spaces.
- Mental
Well-being
Exposure to greenery and natural elements like Golden Pothos can reduce stress, enhance mood, and boost productivity. Its low-maintenance nature makes it ideal for people who are new to plant care, offering psychological benefits without demanding effort. - Humidity
Regulation
Like many houseplants, Golden Pothos contributes to natural humidity regulation by releasing water vapor through transpiration, which can relieve symptoms of dry skin, sore throats, or respiratory issues.
Benefits for Animals
While Golden Pothos is toxic to pets—including cats
and dogs—if ingested, it can still offer indirect benefits:
- Environmental
Enrichment (with Caution)
In controlled environments, the presence of lush greenery can reduce stress for animals and create more enriching surroundings in pet enclosures or homes. However, it must be kept out of reach or replaced with non-toxic alternatives where ingestion is a risk. - Habitat
Use in Natural Settings
In tropical regions where Golden Pothos grows wild, it can provide shelter and habitat for small insects and animals. Its dense vines create a microhabitat, offering shade and protection.
Environmental Benefits
- Carbon
Sequestration
As a fast-growing vine, Golden Pothos is efficient at absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, contributing to better air quality and helping to mitigate urban heat and pollution effects. - Erosion
Control and Soil Stabilization
In outdoor settings, especially in tropical climates, its spreading roots can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion, particularly on slopes or loose ground. - Low
Maintenance and Sustainability
Golden Pothos is drought-tolerant, adaptable to low light, and resistant to pests. These qualities make it an environmentally sustainable choice requiring fewer resources (like fertilizers, pesticides, and water) compared to more demanding ornamental plants.
Conclusion
Golden Pothos stands out not just for its beauty, but for
its multifaceted contributions to human health, environmental well-being, and
ecological resilience. Though caution is needed around pets, its overall
profile as an air-purifying, mood-lifting, and environmentally friendly plant
makes it a valuable addition to both homes and ecosystems. As cities strive for
greener solutions, plants like Golden Pothos offer a practical and elegant way
to reconnect with nature.
References
- NASA
Clean Air Study
Wolverton, B.C., Johnson, A., & Bounds, K. (1989). Interior Landscape Plants for Indoor Air Pollution Abatement. NASA.
NASA Study PDF (archived) - ASPCA
– Toxicity to Pets
American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA).
Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants – Golden Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
https://www.aspca.org - University
of Florida IFAS Extension
Gilman, E.F. (1999). Epipremnum aureum, Golden Pothos.
University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences.
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu - Missouri
Botanical Garden
Epipremnum aureum Profile
https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org
NASA Earth Observatory. (2020). How Plants Help Clean Indoor Air.
https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov
