If you’ve ever seen a mature Giant Hawaiian Pothos, you know just how jaw-dropping those massive, heart-shaped leaves can be. Deep green with vibrant yellow variegation, these plants make a bold statement in any indoor jungle. But here’s the secret: those huge leaves don’t just happen on their own—they need the right environment and care to reach their full, lush potential.
In this post, I’ll walk you through exactly what you need to do to encourage your Giant Hawaiian Pothos to grow those big, impressive leaves.
What Is a Giant Hawaiian Pothos?
Let’s start with the basics. The Giant Hawaiian Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is a cultivar of the classic golden pothos, but it’s known for its ability to produce extra-large leaves, especially when given the right conditions. In the wild, they can grow leaves that are up to 3 feet long as they climb trees in tropical rainforests!
Now, let’s talk about how to mimic those rainforest conditions at home.
1. Give It Something to Climb
This is the #1 tip for bigger leaves. Pothos are climbers by nature, and when they’re allowed to grow upward on a support like a moss pole, coco pole, or even a bark-covered trellis, they’re much more likely to produce larger leaves.
Why it works: Climbing mimics how the plant grows in the wild—up the trunks of tall trees, where the plant naturally grows bigger leaves to capture more light.
Tip: Use a thick moss pole and keep it moist to encourage aerial roots to anchor into it. The more stable the climb, the better the growth.
2. Bright, Indirect Light = Big Leaves
Your Giant Hawaiian Pothos doesn’t want to be in the dark. While it can survive in low light, bright, indirect sunlight is key for large, vibrant foliage.
Position your plant near an east- or south-facing window with filtered light, or supplement with a grow light if your space is dim.
Warning: Avoid direct afternoon sun—it can scorch the leaves.
3. Feed It Regularly
Bigger leaves need more energy! Make sure you’re giving your pothos the nutrients it needs.
- Use a balanced liquid fertilizer (like 20-20-20 or similar) every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring through early fall).
- For an extra boost, consider a fertilizer high in nitrogen, which promotes leafy growth.
Pro Tip: Organic compost or worm castings added to the soil can offer a slow-release nutrient source over time.
4. Don’t Let It Get Rootbound
If your plant has outgrown its pot, it might be too busy surviving to focus on growing big leaves. Check the roots every 6–12 months. If they’re circling the bottom of the pot or growing out of the drainage holes, it’s time to repot.
Choose a pot 1–2 inches wider than the current one, and use a well-draining, chunky mix (think potting soil + perlite + orchid bark).
5. High Humidity = Happy Pothos
While Hawaiian Pothos can handle average household humidity, they thrive in higher humidity (above 60%). Bigger leaves develop more easily in a humid environment.
- Use a humidifier, especially in winter.
- Group plants together to create a microclimate.
- Place a water tray nearby or mist occasionally (just don’t overdo it).
6. Prune to Promote Growth
Don’t be afraid to cut it back a little—pruning encourages new growth and bushier vines. When the plant has a strong root system and is well cared for, it will bounce back fast, often with larger leaves.
7. Be Patient and Consistent
Big-leaf growth won’t happen overnight. But with time, consistency, and the right environment, you’ll start to see those big, stunning Hawaiian pothos leaves unfurling one after another.
Final Thoughts
Growing a Giant Hawaiian Pothos with massive leaves is all about recreating the conditions of its natural habitat—climbing support, bright light, nutrients, humidity, and space to grow. Whether you’re propagating a baby plant or nurturing a mature one, the steps above will set you on the right path.
Have you seen leaf growth after trying any of these tips? Let me know in the comments, or tag me on Instagram with your giant-leaf success stories!
