Settling Pothos vs Philodendron: Join us as we explore the differences between these popular indoor plants!
Pothos and Philodendrons are two beloved indoor plants, but what sets them apart? Let’s delve into their characteristics and discover which one suits your green thumb better with the Pothos Vs Philodendron guide.
What is Pothos? 
Pothos, scientifically known as Epipremnum aureum, is a versatile and beloved plant that has earned a reputation as an excellent choice for indoor gardening enthusiasts.
Native to the Solomon Islands, its heart-shaped leaves and trailing vines make it a visually appealing addition to any space. Pothos is celebrated for its adaptability, thriving in a wide range of lighting conditions from low to bright indirect light. Its ability to purify the air by removing toxins like formaldehyde and benzene further adds to its popularity.
With its forgiving nature and low-maintenance requirements, Pothos is an ideal choice for beginners and busy plant parents alike. Whether cascading down a hanging basket or climbing a trellis, Pothos brings a touch of lush greenery and natural beauty to any home or office environment.
Learn about Growing Pothos Indoors here
What is Philodendron? 
Philodendron, a diverse genus of tropical plants, encompasses a wide array of species known for their stunning foliage and easy-care nature.
With their glossy, heart-shaped, or uniquely shaped leaves, Philodendrons bring a touch of exotic beauty into indoor spaces. These plants originate from the rainforests of Central and South America, where they thrive in the dappled light beneath the dense canopy.
Philodendrons come in an assortment of sizes and forms, from compact tabletop varieties to sprawling climbers, allowing plant lovers to find the perfect fit for their unique aesthetics and space. Before we get into Pothos Vs Philodendron, let us take a look at their similarities.
Learn How to Make Philodendrons Bigger and Bushier here
Similarities Between Pothos and Philodendrons
- Both Pothos and Philodendron belong to the Araceae family.
- Pothos and Philodendrons can tolerate a range of lighting conditions, including lower-light environments.
- Both plants prefer well-draining soil and thrive when allowed to dry out partially between waterings.
- Pothos and Philodendrons are known for their trailing or climbing growth habits, with long vines that can be trained or left to cascade.
- Pothos and Philodendrons both have the ability to purify indoor air by filtering out certain toxins and increasing humidity levels.
- Pothos and some species of Philodendron are toxic to pets and should be kept out of their reach.
Here is the Difference Between MuskMelon and Cantaloupe
Difference Between Pothos and Philodendron
1. Family
Pothos plants belong to the Araceae family, which is also known as the Aroid family. This family encompasses a wide variety of tropical and subtropical plants, including popular houseplants like Monsteras, Peace Lilies, and Anthuriums. Pothos are specifically classified under the genus Epipremnum within the Araceae family.
Philodendrons are also members of the Araceae family, making them closely related to Pothos. They belong to the genus Philodendron, which is a diverse group of plants within the Araceae family. This genus includes numerous species and cultivars, each displaying unique characteristics and foliage patterns.
Pothos Vs Philodendron have the same family but differ in the genus.
Confused about the difference between Cilantro and Parsley? Click here
2. Appearance
Stuck on Pothos vs Philodendron identification? Pothos vs Philodendron leaves tell all about them. Pothos plants typically have heart-shaped leaves that come in various shades of green, often with variegated patterns of yellow, white, or cream. The leaves are glossy and can grow quite large, providing a lush and vibrant appearance.
In contrast, Philodendron leaves also come in different shapes, such as heart-shaped, oval, or elongated. They have a glossy texture and are typically solid green, although some varieties may exhibit variegation. Philodendron leaves tend to be thicker and have a more leathery feel compared to Pothos.
3. Growth
Let us take a look at Pothos vs Philodendron care and growth. Pothos is a highly adaptable plant that can tolerate a wide range of lighting conditions, including low light. It prefers well-draining soil and thrives in average room temperatures. Pothos can also tolerate periods of dry soil, making it a forgiving plant for those prone to occasional watering lapses.
Here to learn about Golden Pothos vs Philodendron? In the case of Golden Pothos, you’ll need to place it in indirect sunlight to keep the plant healthy and thriving. It can also tolerate shady spots, but partial sunlight and warmth are what make variegation and leaf markings more visible.
Pothos vs Philodendron light requirements differ a bit. Philodendrons prefer bright indirect light, although they can adapt to lower light conditions. They require well-draining soil and prefer temperatures between 65-85°F (18-29°C). Philodendrons are sensitive to cold temperatures and should be protected from drafts.
Thinking of heart leaf philodendron vs pothos? When it comes to Heartleaf philodendron, there aren’t many houseplants that are as tolerant of low lighting as this one. Not just the heartleaf philodendron but other philodendron varieties can also tolerate low-light conditions up to a certain extent.
Check out these Healthy vs. Unhealthy Snake Plants (Big Differences)
4. Smell
When it comes to Pothos Vs Philodendron based on smell or flavor, neither Pothos nor Philodendron plants have any distinctive scent. They are primarily grown for their ornamental value rather than their aromatic or culinary attributes.
5. Pests and Diseases
Pothos plants are generally resistant to most common pests and diseases. However, they can occasionally be affected by mealybugs or spider mites, especially if the plant is stressed or lacks proper care.
When it comes to the Pothos plant vs Philodendron, Philodendrons, like Pothos, are relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, they can occasionally attract aphids, mealybugs, or scale insects. Philodendrons are also susceptible to fungal leaf spot diseases if exposed to excessive moisture or if their leaves remain wet for prolonged periods.
6. Root System
Pothos plants have a relatively shallow and compact root system. This root structure allows them to thrive in a variety of pot sizes and makes them well-suited for container gardening. However, it’s essential to provide adequate drainage to prevent waterlogged conditions that can lead to root rot.
Learn How to Treat Root Rot in Houseplants Like a Pro here
Philodendrons typically develop a more extensive root system compared to Pothos. Their roots tend to spread out and grow deeper into the soil. Philodendrons appreciate well-draining soil that allows their roots to breathe and prevents excess moisture buildup.
Pothos Vs Philodendron: Conclusion
Both these are exceptional choices for indoor greenery, each with its unique characteristics and qualities, even if Pothos vs Philodendron plant is a long debate.
Pothos, with its variegated heart-shaped leaves and adaptability to various lighting conditions, is an excellent option for those seeking a low-maintenance plant with cascading vines. On the other hand, Philodendron, with its diverse leaf shapes and glossy foliage, adds a touch of elegance to any space, thriving in bright indirect light.
Ultimately, the choice between Pothos and Philodendron depends on personal preference, desired growth habits, and the specific environmental conditions of your home or office. Whichever you choose, both plants are sure to bring beauty and greenery to your indoor environment.
Here are Philodendron Atabapoense vs. Billietiae: Top Differences
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Heart Leaf Philodendron vs Pothos: Which is better?
The choice between Heart Leaf Philodendron and Pothos ultimately depends on personal preference and specific requirements. Heart Leaf Philodendron features heart-shaped leaves with a solid green color, while Pothos offers a variety of leaf shapes and vibrant, variegated patterns. Consider factors such as desired foliage appearance, lighting conditions, and growth habits to determine which plant better suits your needs and aesthetic preferences.
2. What to Plant Lemon Lime Philodendron vs Neon Pothos?
When comparing Lemon Lime Philodendron and Neon Pothos, it’s important to consider their distinct characteristics. Lemon Lime Philodendron showcases bright, lime-green leaves with a glossy texture, adding a pop of color to any space. Neon Pothos, on the other hand, boasts striking neon-green foliage with yellow variegation. Both plants thrive in bright indirect light and have similar care requirements.
3. Neon Philodendron vs Neon Pothos
Both the Neon Philodendron and Neon Pothos are visually striking plants with vibrant neon-green foliage. However, they belong to different plant genera. Both plants are excellent choices for adding a splash of color to your indoor space, and the choice between them ultimately depends on your desired leaf shape and caring habit.
Very informative indeed…