Pothos vs. Philodendron: How to Tell the Difference
Often mistaken for one another, pothos and philodendron have unique traits. Discover the key distinctions in their form and needs to choose the right one for you.
Pothos and philodendrons are popular indoor plants, favored for their resilience and attractive foliage. They adapt well to a range of home environments, but their similar vining appearance frequently causes confusion. Many plant enthusiasts are unsure which of the two they are growing. Understanding their distinct traits is the first step to appreciating what makes each plant unique and providing the best care.
Visual Identification Guide
Leaf Shape and Texture
An immediate way to distinguish between a pothos and a philodendron is by examining their leaves. Pothos leaves are thicker, feel waxy, and may have a subtly bumpy texture. Their shape is slightly asymmetrical and less heart-like, with a straighter base where the leaf connects to its stalk.
In contrast, philodendron leaves are thinner with a softer, smoother feel. They display a pronounced and symmetrical heart shape, with a distinct inward curve at the base, making the philodendron leaf look more delicate.
Stems and Petioles
The stems and petioles (the stalks attaching leaves to the vine) offer another clue. Pothos stems are thicker and more substantial than those of a philodendron. A feature of the pothos petiole is a noticeable groove that runs along its length.
Philodendron stems are thinner, rounder, and smoother. Their petioles are perfectly round and lack the groove seen in pothos, creating a smooth connection to the primary vine.
New Leaf Growth
How new leaves emerge is a definitive way to tell these plants apart. A new philodendron leaf grows from a cataphyll, a small, waxy sheath that protects the developing leaf. This cataphyll remains on the stem as the leaf unfurls, then dries up and falls off.
Pothos plants do not have cataphylls. A new pothos leaf emerges directly from the stem of the previous leaf, simply extending and unfurling without a protective sheath.
Aerial Roots
Both plants produce aerial roots to climb and absorb moisture, but the roots differ. Pothos develop thick, nubby aerial roots, with only one large root per node on the stem. These robust roots help the plant anchor itself securely.
Philodendrons produce multiple smaller, more delicate aerial roots at each node. These roots are thinner and more spindly compared to the stout roots of a pothos.
Comparing Care Needs
The care needs of pothos and philodendrons are very similar. Both plants thrive in bright, indirect sunlight, though pothos shows more tolerance for lower light conditions. Philodendrons prefer brighter, indirect light to maintain their best growth.
For watering, both species prefer their soil to dry out partially between waterings to prevent root rot. Philodendrons can be more expressive, with leaves that droop when the plant is thirsty. Pothos, with thicker, water-retentive leaves, are slightly more tolerant of drought.
A standard, well-draining potting mix is sufficient for both plants. They are not demanding about soil composition, as long as it allows for good aeration. Both also appreciate average home humidity levels.
Growth Habits and Common Uses
Both plants are natural viners, but their growth habits differ. Philodendrons present a delicate, graceful trailing appearance, with slender stems creating elegant cascades. This makes them well-suited for shelves or mantels where their vines can drape downwards.
Pothos have a more robust and vigorous growth habit. Their thicker vines and larger leaves create a full, lush look quickly, making them excellent for hanging baskets or for training up a support. While both can become “leggy” in lower light, pothos grow faster and more aggressively.
Understanding Their Toxicity
An important point of similarity is their toxicity. Both plants belong to the Araceae family and contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. If any part of the plant is chewed or ingested by pets or humans, these microscopic crystals cause immediate irritation.
Symptoms for both plants are the same and include oral pain, swelling of the lips, tongue, and mouth, and sometimes vomiting. Since their toxicity and effects are identical, both plants should be kept out of reach of cats, dogs, and children.
Which Plant is Right for You?
Choosing between a pothos and a philodendron comes down to aesthetics and your home environment. If you are drawn to a perfectly heart-shaped leaf and a delicate, trailing vine, a philodendron is an excellent choice. It brings a softer look to indoor spaces and clearly communicates its watering needs.
If you need a hardier plant that can withstand a wider variety of light conditions, the pothos is a superb option. Its robust nature, faster growth, and thicker leaves create a lush, tropical feel, making it a durable and low-maintenance choice.