Philodendron 'Dragon Tail'

Glossy green leaves that transform into dramatic splits as they grow.

The Philodendron Dragon Tail, botanically known as Epipremnum pinnatum, is one of those plants that gets noticeably more interesting with age. Young plants begin with sleek, glossy green leaves, but as the vines mature and climb, the foliage can become larger and develop deep cuts and fenestrations that create its signature “dragon tail” appearance.

Also commonly called the Dragon Tail Pothos or Dragon-Tail Plant, this tropical climber is perfect for anyone who loves watching a houseplant change over time.

Give it bright indirect light, something sturdy to climb, and a little room to grow, and this easygoing plant can become a seriously impressive vertical statement.

Why You’ll Love It

• The foliage transforms as it matures
  Juvenile leaves begin smooth and simple, while mature foliage develops dramatic splits and openings for a completely different look.
• Made to climb
  Give your Dragon Tail a moss pole, plank, or trellis and let it grow upward — climbing support helps encourage larger, more mature leaves.
• Bold, glossy green foliage
  Rich green leaves bring plenty of tropical texture without relying on variegation or flowers.
• Surprisingly easy to grow
  Despite its exotic mature appearance, Epipremnum pinnatum is considered a relatively low-maintenance indoor plant.
• Perfect for vertical spaces
  Its climbing habit lets you create a big tropical statement without sacrificing a huge amount of floor space.

Best For

Living rooms • Home offices • Bright corners • Moss poles • Vertical spaces • Indoor jungles • Beginner plant parents • Aroid lovers

Care at a Glance

Light: Medium to bright, indirect light
Water: Allow the top few inches of soil to dry slightly before watering thoroughly
Humidity: Average household humidity is usually sufficient; appreciates moderate humidity
Difficulty: Beginner-friendly to intermediate
Pet Friendly: No — keep away from pets that may chew the foliage

Styling Tip

If you want those dramatic mature leaves, let this one climb.

Train your Dragon Tail Pothos onto a moss pole, wood plank, bamboo support, or trellis and give the foliage plenty of room to move upward. As the plant gains height and maturity, the leaves can become larger and increasingly divided.

A simple ceramic, stone, terracotta, or earthy planter keeps the focus on the foliage. Style it against a plain wall, beside a console, or in a bright corner where those mature split leaves can eventually become the statement.

Good to Know

Epipremnum pinnatum is naturally a climbing vine, and support plays an important role in helping it develop its mature foliage.

Young plants may look surprisingly simple. Juvenile leaves are typically smooth and undivided, so don't worry if your new Dragon Tail doesn't have dramatic splits yet. As the plant matures and climbs, the leaves can grow larger, develop deep cuts along the edges, and even form fenestrations.

Bright indirect light and vertical support will give your plant the best chance of developing those characteristic mature leaves.

Keep the soil lightly moist but never soggy, allowing the upper portion to dry slightly between waterings. A chunky, well-draining potting mix is ideal.

You may also see this plant called Dragon Tail Pothos, Epipremnum pinnatum, Philodendron pinnatum, or simply Dragon Tail Plant. Philodendron pinnatum is an older botanical name, while Epipremnum pinnatum is the currently accepted classification.

If you're searching for an easy-care climbing houseplant with dramatic split leaves, Dragon Tail Epipremnum brings glossy tropical foliage, vertical growth, and an impressive transformation as it matures.