Last Updated on June 11, 2025 by Stella Canfield
Jianjun Chen, environmental horticulture professor at the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, was recently recognized with a Plant Patent and Variety Protection Certificate at the Florida Agricultural Experiment Station Research Awards Ceremony.
With support from the National Horticulture Foundation, Chen secured patents for three new pothos cultivars: Ivory Knight, Marble Prince and Neon Queen.
Developed through years of research and breeding at the UF/IFAS Mid-Florida Research and Education Center, the new cultivars introduce unique leaf shape and color variation for growers, retailers and houseplant enthusiasts alike.
Ivory Knight is distinguished by its broad white center and yellow-green streaks, rich green edges, white and green streaked stems and larger leaves. Marble Prince, derived from Marble Queen, features consistent marbled green and bright white coloration across the entire leaf surface, short internodes and smaller, narrow elongated leaves. Neon Queen, originating from Golden Pothos, is characterized by narrow-shaped leaves in a consistent light green outlined by a yellow venation, yellow stems and a semi-compact, trailing growth habit.
“I’m grateful for the support that made this possible,” says Chen. “The development of these pothos cultivars reflect our commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the foliage plant industry.”
Pothos is a popular houseplant in North America, known for its heart-shaped leaves, forgiving care requirements and ability to thrive in low light. It has increasingly become a staple in many homes, offices and even living walls. According to the USDA Floriculture Crops Statistics, the wholesale value of pothos in 2018 was $22.89 million, underscoring the plant’s value and popularity. Chen’s patented varieties will be produced and sold by commercial growers, bringing new options to a thriving market.
However, it’s important to note that in Florida, pothos are considered a Category II invasive species. According to the Florida Invasive Species Council, this means that the plant has increased in abundance but have not yet altered Florida plant communities to the extent seen in Category I species. For that reason, pothos should be kept as indoor foliage – not used as ground cover or planted outdoors in Florida landscapes.
Invasive species can outcompete native species for resources, leading to the displacement and decline of native populations. This disruption can lead to a loss of biodiversity and the degradation of Florida’s natural ecosystems.
If you see an invasive species, please visit https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/natural-resources/invasive-species/
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