Yes, Epipremnum pinnatum 'Albo' is a vigorous climber by nature, exhibiting a strong upward growth habit. This striking variegated form shares the same climbing characteristics as the green species.
This plant is naturally adapted to ascend, utilizing its aerial roots to anchor onto various surfaces. In its native environment, it thrives by climbing the trunks of towering rainforest trees. Remarkably, it can sometimes lose contact with the ground entirely, becoming fully epiphytic, meaning it grows on other plants for support without being parasitic. Beyond trees, Epipremnum pinnatum may also be found climbing on natural rock formations like granite and limestone in mountain forests.
Why Climbing Matters for Your 'Albo'
Allowing your Epipremnum pinnatum 'Albo' to climb is not just about aesthetics; it's crucial for its development and health.
- Maturity: Climbing encourages the plant to mature, leading to larger, more fenestrated leaves. This is a common characteristic of many Aroids, where leaf size and shape evolve significantly when they are allowed to climb compared to trailing.
- Stronger Growth: Upward growth often results in a more robust and healthier plant, mimicking its natural habitat.
- Enhanced Variegation: While not guaranteed, some growers observe that mature, climbing plants tend to display more prominent and stable variegation.
Encouraging Upward Growth Indoors
If you're growing Epipremnum pinnatum 'Albo' indoors, providing a climbing structure is essential to harness its natural instincts and promote optimal growth.
Here are effective methods to support its ascent:
- Moss Poles: These are ideal as they provide a textured surface and retain moisture, which encourages aerial roots to cling and absorb nutrients. Ensure the pole is kept moist.
- Trellises: Various decorative trellises, made from wood, metal, or plastic, can offer sturdy support for the plant to climb.
- Coir Poles: Similar to moss poles, coir (coconut fiber) poles offer an excellent textured surface for aerial roots to attach.
- Wall Clips/Hooks: For a more minimalist approach, you can gently guide stems up a wall using adhesive clips or clear plant hooks.
Tip: Regularly misting the aerial roots and the climbing structure can encourage better attachment and overall plant vigor.
Natural Habitat and Climbing Behavior
Epipremnum pinnatum is native to a wide range of tropical and subtropical regions, including Southeast Asia, Australia, and the Pacific Islands. Its climbing ability is a key survival mechanism in these dense environments, allowing it to reach higher light levels in the forest canopy. The ability to become entirely epiphytic showcases its adaptability, thriving even when its roots lose connection with the soil. This resilient behavior highlights why providing vertical support is beneficial for its cultivation in any setting.
