Shanghai Pothos (Epipremnum aureum ‘Shangri La’)

The Shanghai Pothos, also known as Shangri La, is a botanical curiosity 🌀 a deep green variety with uniquely curled, puckered leaves that twist inward like a rolled scroll. It has a dramatic, almost prehistoric look that makes it a true conversation piece. In kokedama form, its textured foliage and compact growth give a sculptural, living-art quality 🌀 lush, mysterious, and a little wild.

• Prefers medium to bright indirect light for rich, dark foliage.
• Tolerates lower light better than most variegated types but grows slower.
• Avoid strong direct sun ☀️ the leaves can crisp or lose their signature curl.
• Great for a bright room with filtered natural light or artificial grow lighting.

• Water when the moss ball feels dry or noticeably lighter, around every 7–9 days.
• Use about 1 cup of water, letting it soak in slowly for even hydration.
• Rotate during watering so all sides receive moisture.
• Mist occasionally to help keep humidity up and prevent leaf curl from tightening too much.
• Don’t overwater 💧 the thick, curled leaves retain moisture well.

💡 Tip: If the leaves start unfolding or drooping, it’s signaling that your kokedama needs a good soak.

• Feed once a month during spring and summer with ¼-strength balanced fertilizer.
• Hold off during the cooler, dormant months.
• Overfertilizing can flatten the leaves 🌿 less is more for this slow-growing cultivar.

• Prefers 68–85 °F (20–29 °C).
• Does best in moderate humidity (50–70%), though it can tolerate household air.
• Avoid cold drafts, vents, or temps below 60 °F 🌡 they can cause leaf deformities.
• Ideal placement: warm, bright, and out of direct sunlight.

• Naturally compact and slow-growing; prune lightly to shape.
• Wipe leaves gently with a damp cloth to prevent dust buildup in the leaf curls.
• Rotate occasionally for even growth and light exposure.
• Can remain in kokedama form for 10–14 months before needing a rewrap or refresh.

Rewrap or repot when:

• The moss starts to harden or dry unevenly.
• Roots begin to push through the surface.
• Growth seems sluggish despite proper care.

When replanting conventionally, use a loose, chunky mix of coco coir, perlite, and bark.

The Shanghai Pothos earned its “Shangri La” nickname because its tightly curled leaves look like ancient scrolls 💫 and because it’s believed to bring good fortune and peace to the home. Its rare form and slow growth rate make it a prized find among collectors.

• Light: Medium to bright indirect
• Water: 1 cup weekly when moss feels dry
• Humidity: 50–70%; mist occasionally
• Temperature: 68–85 °F (20–29 °C)
• Feeding: Monthly with ¼-strength fertilizer
• Maintenance: Wipe leaves, trim lightly, rotate regularly
• Kokedama Lifespan: 10–14 months before rewrapping
• When to Refresh: If moss dries unevenly or roots push through
• Difficulty: Moderate 🪴 slow but rewarding grower
• Toxicity: Toxic if ingested by pets or children

If accidentally ingested, contact Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 immediately.