Pothos vs Philodendron: How to Tell the Difference and Care for Each
Identify each plant at a glance and adapt care routines for healthier, more vibrant vines.
Pothos vs Philodendron: Plant Differences and Similarities
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) and Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum and close relatives) are two of the most popular houseplants globally. Their lush vining growth, tolerance for varied growing conditions, and attractive heart-shaped leaves make them favorites for homes and offices. Yet, theyâre so similar in appearance that even plant enthusiasts often mistake one for the other. This comprehensive guide will show you how to tell the difference between Pothos and Philodendron, compare their care needs, and answer your most pressing questions about both plants.
Table of Contents
- Overview: Pothos and Philodendron at a Glance
- Comparing Leaf Shape, Size, and Texture
- Stem, Aerial Roots, and Growth Features
- New Growth: A Clear Distinction
- Noteworthy Varieties of Each
- Pothos vs Philodendron Comparison Table
- Plant Care: Differences and Similarities
- Propagation: How to Multiply Your Plants
- Frequently Asked Questions
Overview: Pothos and Philodendron at a Glance
Pothos and Philodendron are both part of the Araceae family, which also includes other popular aroids like Monsteras and Peace Lilies. Although they share similar growth habits and general appearance, they are classified in different genera.
- Pothos: Genus Epipremnum, species aureum and relatives
- Philodendron: Genus Philodendron, species hederaceum and relatives
Despite their familial ties, these are botanically distinct plants, only distantly related within the aroid family. Their overlapping features are the product of convergent evolutionâadapting to similar rainforest understory habitats.
Comparing Leaf Shape, Size, and Texture
Both Pothos and Philodendron boast heart-shaped leaves with a striking green palette, but look closely and several differences emerge:
- Leaf Shape:
- Philodendron: More pronounced heart shape, with a deeper cleft where the petiole (leaf stem) meets the blade; tip is typically more elongated and comes to a gentle point.
- Pothos: Leaves are more broadly oval, less deeply lobed at the base, and often have a more variable shape depending on the variety.
- Leaf Texture:
- Philodendron: Thin, glossy, and smooth to the touch.
- Pothos: Thicker, with a distinctly waxy or almost leathery feel due to a protective coating.
- Leaf Size and Color:
- Philodendron: Heart-shaped leaves generally smaller, uniformly deep green in classic types, but certain cultivars exhibit dramatic variegation.
- Pothos: Larger leaves overall, typically brighter green with abundant variegation (splashes of yellow, white, or silver depending on the type).
Visual Comparison
Hereâs how you can distinguish them at a glance:
- Philodendron: Deeper heart cut; âVâ where leaf meets the petiole is sharper than in Pothos.
- Pothos: Broader leaf, shorter âVâ at base, and frequently marbled or streaked with lighter coloration.
Stem, Aerial Roots, and Growth Features
- Stems:
- Pothos stems are thicker and more robust, closely matching the color of the leaves.
- Philodendron stems tend to be thinner and can sometimes display tints of brownish-green or even an orangey hue near new growth.
- Aerial Roots:
- Pothos: Aerial roots are thick and usually appear singly at each node, resembling firm nubs.
- Philodendron: Roots are finer, often emerging in groups of 2 to 6 at each node, appearing more spindly.
What others are reading
Both use their aerial roots for climbing and absorbing moisture and nutrients from the airâa legacy of their rainforest origins.
New Growth: A Clear Distinction
- Philodendron: New leaves emerge tightly folded inside a thin, papery sheath called a cataphyll. Once the leaf matures and expands, the cataphyll withers and drops off.
- Pothos: New leaves simply unfurl from the previous leaf, with no distinctive sheath visible.
This detail is subtle but extremely reliable for plant identification, especially as the plants mature.
Noteworthy Varieties of Each
Pothos Varieties
- Golden Pothos (Epipremnum aureum ‘Golden’): Iconic green leaves streaked with creamy yellow.
- Marble Queen: White and green marbling, higher variegation.
- Neon Pothos: Uniform, vibrant neon or chartreuse green leaves.
- Satin Pothos (Scindapsus pictus, often sold as ‘Pothos’): Deep green leaves with silver spots.
Philodendron Varieties
- Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum): Classic trailing form, deep green leaves.
- Philodendron Brasil: Green leaves streaked with lime or yellow.
- Philodendron Micans: Velvet-textured leaves with a deep bronze-green appearance.
- Philodendron Birkin: Self-heading, upright plant with pinstriped creamy variegation (not vining).
- Pink Princess: Striking pink variegation; highly coveted by collectors.
Pothos vs Philodendron Comparison Table
| Feature | Pothos (Epipremnum) | Philodendron (Philodendron) |
|---|---|---|
| Leaf Shape | Broader, less deeply heart-shaped; can be oval | Deeper heart shape, pronounced âVâ at the stem |
| Leaf Texture | Thick, waxy, sometimes leathery | Thinner, smooth, glossy |
| Leaf Color | Brighter green; often yellow or white variegation | Darker green; some variegated types (e.g., ‘Brasil’, ‘Birkin’, ‘Pink Princess’) |
| Stems | Relatively thick, green like the leaves | Thinner, sometimes tinged brown or orange |
| Aerial Roots | Thicker, usually one root per node | Thinner, clusters (2â6) per node |
| New Growth | Leaves unfurl from previous leaf, no sheath | Leaves emerge from thin cataphyll sheath |
| Growth Rate | Fast, vigorous under normal conditions | Fast, especially in high humidity and warmth |
| Max Length (Indoors) | 20â40 ft (rare indoors); 6â10 ft typical | 15â20 ft; often trails or climbs 8â12 ft indoors |
Plant Care: Differences and Similarities
Both plants thrive in household environments and are prized for their tolerance to neglect, but a few distinctions are important:
- Light:
- Pothos: Tolerates lower light and even fluorescent lighting, but best color develops in bright, indirect light. Too little light reduces variegation; too much burns the leaves.
- Philodendron: Prefers medium to bright, indirect light and can handle lower light, but variegated types need more illumination to avoid reverting to green.
- Water:
- Pothos: More drought-tolerant, thanks to waxy leaves and thicker stems. Let the soil dry out several inches before watering again.
- Philodendron: Needs slightly more frequent watering, as thin leaves wilt when dry. Best to let the soil surface dry before rewatering.
- Humidity: Both adapt well to standard home humidity, but Philodendrons prefer higher humidity than Pothos for optimal leaf health.
- Temperature: Ideal temperature range for both: 65â85°F (18â29°C). Avoid temperatures below 55°F (13°C).
- Soil: Both enjoy well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter. A peat-based mix with perlite or orchid bark works well.
- Fertilizing: Monthly feeding during spring and summer keeps both thriving. Reduce or pause in winter.
- Pruning: Prune vines as needed to maintain desired shape and encourage bushier growth.
- Toxicity: Both are mildly toxic to pets and humans if ingested, causing irritation and gastrointestinal symptoms. Keep out of reach of children and animals.
Propagation: How to Multiply Your Plants
One of the best reasons to grow these vines is how easy they are to propagate by cuttings:
- Snip a healthy 4â6â stem just below a leaf node (where the leaf meets the stem).
- Remove all but 1â2 leaves from the cut end.
- Place the stem in a jar of filtered water or place the end in moist potting soil.
- Roots develop in 2â4 weeks. Pot up when the roots are 1â2 inches long.
Both Pothos and Philodendron respond quickly to this process and can develop into lush new plants in a season.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How can I tell Pothos and Philodendron apart at a glance?
Check the leaf shapeâPhilodendrons have a deeper heart-shaped leaf with a sharper, more pronounced notch at the base, while Pothos leaves are broader and less deeply lobed. Also, Philodendrons tend to have thinner stems and produce new leaves wrapped in a sheath (cataphyll), which is absent in Pothos.
Do Pothos and Philodendron need the same care?
Care is similar, but Pothos tolerate drought and low humidity better, while Philodendrons appreciate slightly moister soil and higher humidity. Both dislike soggy soil and direct sun.
Which plant is better for beginners?
Both are considered excellent for beginners, but Pothos are especially forgiving of inconsistent watering and variable lighting, making them the popular choice for new plant parents.
Are Pothos and Philodendron safe for pets?
No. Both are toxic to cats, dogs, and humans if ingested due to insoluble calcium oxalates in their sap. Keep plants out of reach of pets and children.
What are some show-stopping varieties to try?
- Pothos: Marble Queen, Neon, Golden, Manjula
- Philodendron: Brasil, Micans, Birkin, Pink Princess
How fast do they grow?
Both can trail several feet per year under optimal conditions. Pruning encourages bushier vines and more rapid growth.
Final Thoughts
Pothos and Philodendron are both timeless houseplants valued for their beauty, resilience, and ease of care. While their similarities may cause confusion, a closer inspection reveals unique features and a range of dazzling varieties to suit any plant loverâs taste. By understanding their small but meaningful differences, you can enjoy healthier, more attractive indoor greenery for years to come.
References
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