Epipremnum aureum “Marble Queen”

Epipremnum aureum 'Marble Queen' is a striking vining plant with heart-shaped leaves splashed with creamy white, light green, and occasional yellow variegation. Known for its resilience and low-maintenance nature, the Marble Queen Pothos is a perfect addition to bioactive setups for terrariums, vivariums, or paludariums. Its beautiful variegated foliage adds a pop of color and contrasts beautifully with the natural ecosystem of your tank.

Care Instructions

LIGHT. Prefers bright, indirect light to maintain its stunning variegation. While it can tolerate lower light levels, the white and yellow markings may become less prominent in low light. In a bioactive setup, position the plant near a light source but avoid direct sunlight, as this can scorch the delicate leaves.

SOIL. A well-draining, loose soil mix is ideal. A blend of coconut coir, perlite, and orchid bark creates a light, airy substrate that mimics the plant's natural tropical environment. In a bioactive enclosure, this soil mix ensures proper aeration, drainage, and supports decomposers like isopods and springtails, which help break down organic matter and enrich the soil.

WATERING. Keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry out between waterings. In bioactive setups, springtails and isopods will help maintain moisture balance by consuming organic matter, so you don’t need to worry about over-watering. Avoid leaving the soil too wet for extended periods.

HUMIDITY. As a tropical plant, the Marble Queen Pothos thrives in high humidity. A bioactive setup is ideal for this plant, as it naturally provides the humid conditions the plant loves. Keep humidity levels above 60% for best results.

TEMPS. Prefers warm temperatures between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C). Avoid placing it in drafty areas or locations with cold temperature fluctuations to prevent stress and encourage healthy growth.

FERTILIZATION. During the growing season (spring and summer), feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks. For a nutrient-pumped soil that supports strong growth, try using Mealworm Frass, produced by our mealworm colonies fed on diverse vegetation. In winter, reduce fertilizing as growth slows down.

Cohabitation with Bioactive Organisms

ISOPODS. Isopods are excellent for helping maintain a healthy substrate by breaking down decaying plant material, dead leaves, and uneaten food. This process helps to keep the soil nutrient-rich and well-aerated. The Marble Queen Pothos benefits from the organic material produced by isopods while also providing them with fallen leaves and plant matter.

SPRINGTAILS. Springtails thrive in moist environments and are perfect for breaking down mold, fungi, and decaying organic matter. Their activity helps prevent the growth of harmful mold while providing a natural cleanup crew for the soil. They will assist in maintaining optimal moisture levels for your Marble Queen Pothos.

Soil and Maintenance Tips

SUBSTRATE. Use a well-draining mix to support both the plant and its decomposers. A combination of coconut coir, orchid bark, and perlite ensures proper root health and provides an environment that’s perfect for springtails and isopods. Adding a layer of activated charcoal at the bottom of your tank can help with filtration and odor control.

HUMIDITY CONTROL. To maintain higher humidity, add a shallow water dish in the enclosure or lightly mist the air once a day. This will help maintain the moisture levels the Marble Queen Pothos enjoys while benefiting the springtails and other bioactive organisms.

TRIMMING. Marble Queen Pothos grows quickly and can be pruned to maintain a tidy appearance. Regular trimming also encourages fuller, bushier growth. The cuttings can be propagated easily in water or soil, making it a great opportunity for creating new plants or expanding your collection.

PEST CONTROL. The Marble Queen Pothos is generally pest-resistant, but in a bioactive setup, springtails and isopods will naturally help control pests such as mealybugs or aphids by feeding on their eggs or larvae, keeping your plant healthy and pest-free.

With its stunning variegated leaves and easy-care nature, Marble Queen Pothos is a beautiful addition to any bioactive setup. It thrives alongside decomposers like isopods and springtails, which help maintain a healthy, nutrient-pumped ecosystem. By providing the plant with its ideal conditions of bright, indirect light, well-draining soil, and consistent humidity, you’ll ensure both your plant and its surrounding ecosystem flourish.