Bring home the tropical energy of the gorgeous Dragon Tail Philodendron with this Epipremnum pinnatum care guide!
Epipremnum pinnatum is an attractive, low-maintenance epiphytic species, highly sought after for its lush foliage and versatility as an indoor plant. Add this stunner to your houseplant collection with this Dragon Tail Philodendron care guide will help you grow one!
- Botanical name: Epipremnum pinnatum
- Goes by the names—Centipede Tongavine & Dragon Tail Philodendron
- Reaches a handsome height of 3-4 feet
- Prefers bright, indirect light
- Attractive, glossy foliage sends out aerial roots as they grow
- Tends to climb up nearby objects
Learn about Growing an Indoor Alocasia scalprum here
Epipremnum pinnatum Plant Profile
Dragon Tail Philodendron has a trailing growth habit, which makes it ideal for hanging baskets and gracing the shelves. Its long, slender leaves create a cascading effect that adds a touch of drama to any space. The plant is also very versatile, as it can be grown in various lighting conditions, making it a great choice for an indoor plant parent.
Great for home offices and tabletops, their elongated, lobed leaves have pointed ends and a smooth margin. The upper surface of the foliage is dark green with a lighter underside, highlighted by prominent veins.
Pot Size
Epipremnum pinnatum can grow well in small pots—ideally 5-6 inches. The easiest way to choose the right pot is to get one size bigger container than the plant’s root ball. As the plant grows, transfer it to a 1-2 size bigger pot. Using a moss pole will not just support the plant’s trailing habit, but complement its beautiful lobed foliage.
You can use small decorative containers or woven pot covers to enhance the aesthetics of your indoors.
Epipremnum pinnatum Propagation
Like most Philodendrons, the Dragon tail specimen is best propagated through stem cuttings. It is an easy way to multiply the plant and will not require much expertise.
- Get a healthy plant free from pests and diseases and snip a healthy stem using sterile clippers.
- Each cut should be approximately 1.5 cm below a node (the bump along the stem where a leaf appears).
- To encourage root growth, dip the cut end of the stem into rooting hormone powder. Tap off any excess powder.
- Prepare a pot with a well-draining potting mix and plant the cutting into it.
- Keep the medium moist and locate the pot at a spot that receives bright indirect sunlight.
In 4-6 weeks, you will notice new growth. Make sure not to overwater the medium to keep your little Epipremnum pinnatum thriving.
Epipremnum pinnatum Growing Requirements
Soil
Dragon Tail Philodendron should be planted in a medium with a pH of 6.0 to7.0, that is rich in organic matter and drains well. Soil that is too damp, mucky, or sandy is not fit for the growth of this plant, so ensure to steer away from such conditions. A good option is a mixture of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite in a 2:1:1 ratio. This mixture allows for proper aeration, water retention, and adequate drainage.
Water
Watering this plant once a week is enough for its growth. Follow the process of deep watering, until you see it draining from the bottom of the pot. Keep an eye on the top 2 inches of the soil and water when you find it dry.
Reduce the watering frequency during winters when the plant is not in an active growing phase, while in summer, water it enough to keep the soil moist but not soggy.
Light
This plant will thrive when positioned in the medium to bright light but away from direct sunlight. It will tolerate growing in low light, but that will keep the plant from flaunting its glossy foliage.
Ensure the Epipremnum pinnatum receives a minimum of 2-3 hours of bright, indirect light, and if the variegated leaves lose their markings, it is an indicator that it needs a brighter position.
Temperature and Humidity
Naturally, dragon tail grows as a forest floor dweller in tropical and subtropical climates, so it loves warmth and humidity. In order to let the plant thrive, maintain temperatures between 65°F (18°C) and 75°F (23°C).
The beautiful Dragon Tail Philodendron adapts to different humidity levels. However, if you live in an arid climate, you can use a humidifier or place the pot on a tray of wet pebbles to make up for the lack of air moisture.
Dragon Tail Philodendron Care
Fertilizer
If you want faster growth of your Dragon Tail Philodendron, fertilizing once a month will be more than enough. Use a high nitrogen liquid fertilizer at half strength to improve foliage health which should be cut down during winter when the plant is in its dormant phase.
Pests and Diseases
Epipremnum pinnatum is resilient to pests and diseases, making its care easy, but you may run into some issues. The plant gets affected by mealybugs and fungus gnats—tiny insects that usually attack the leaf axils or the undersides of leaves. Treat these with neem oil spray before they spread to other plants.
Root rot or browning leaves also affect the plant, usually due to overwatering or a poorly drained potting mix.
