The Perfect Plant for a Cozy Corner
Enter Devil's Ivy, or Pothos (Epipremnum aureum). This humble houseplant has become an interior design superstar for good reason, especially when it comes to crafting those coveted cozy reading zones. It's famously forgiving, thriving even in the lower
light conditions often found in corners and nooks. Its vining nature is its superpower, allowing it to trail, climb, and drape beautifully, adding a touch of natural drama and softness to any space. Unlike fussier plants, Devil's Ivy doesn't demand constant attention, making it the ideal companion for a relaxing retreat. It just wants to grow, and in doing so, it helps you create a space where you can, too.
Style Idea 1: The Cascading Bookshelf
One of the most popular and visually satisfying ways to style Devil's Ivy is to place it on a high shelf. In a reading nook, this means the top of your bookshelf is prime real estate. Position a pot on the highest tier and let its long, leafy vines tumble down over the spines of your favourite novels. This creates a stunning 'living waterfall' effect that softens the hard lines of the furniture. As the vines grow, you can gently guide them around bookends or other decor items. The contrast between the vibrant green leaves and the colourful book covers is a classic look that feels both curated and effortlessly natural.
Style Idea 2: The Hanging Haven
If shelf space is limited, look up. Using a hanging planter is an excellent way to introduce greenery without taking up any floor or surface area. Suspend a Devil's Ivy in a stylish macrame holder or a sleek ceramic pot from a hook in the ceiling, just off to the side of your reading chair. The plant will hang like a living chandelier, creating a sense of enclosure and intimacy. This method is particularly effective for defining the reading zone within a larger room, making it feel like a distinct and special area dedicated solely to your literary escapes.
Style Idea 3: The Climbing Wall Feature
For a more intentional and dramatic look, you can train your Devil's Ivy to climb. This turns a plain wall into a dynamic, green canvas. Install a small, subtle trellis or use a series of small, clear, self-adhesive hooks to guide the vines upwards and across the wall behind your reading chair. You can create organic, winding patterns or more structured geometric shapes. This approach makes the plant an integral part of your wall decor, adding texture, colour, and a powerful biophilic element that promotes a sense of calm and connection to nature—perfect for a space designed for relaxation and focus.
Effortless Care for Lasting Beauty
The beauty of Devil's Ivy is its resilience. To keep it happy in your reading nook, you don't need a green thumb. Water it thoroughly when the top inch or two of soil feels dry, and then let it dry out again. It's more tolerant of underwatering than overwatering. While it can handle low light, it will show more vibrant colour and growth in medium, indirect light. If your nook is particularly dim, consider occasionally rotating it to a brighter spot for a 'recharge.' No complex feeding schedules are needed; a general-purpose liquid fertiliser once every month or two during the spring and summer is more than enough.
A Quick Note on Safety
While Devil's Ivy is a wonderful decorative plant, it's important to know that its leaves and stems are toxic if ingested by cats, dogs, and humans. This can cause irritation in the mouth, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. If you have curious pets or small children, it's crucial to place your plant out of reach. Opting for high shelves or hanging planters is not just a great style choice—it's also the safest way to enjoy this plant's beauty in a home with furry friends or little ones.
