Let’s discuss the Philodendron vs Pothos both help in decorative purposes. These plants suit both the indoor and the outdoor settings. It is not easy to differentiate between these plants without knowing the significant differences.
The reason behind this confusion is that both the plants have the exact requirements for growth and care. Also, they do have the same growing habits.
This guide will help you know the main differences between Philodendron vs Pothos plants. If you are the caretaker of your garden, you can quickly figure out these differences without any confusion.
But if you look at these plants at first glance, it is not easy to differentiate between them, as they both appear to be green and glossy.

Let us have a look at the significant differences between these plants:
Taxonomical Differences in between Philodendron vs Pothos
It is the reality that both these plants are from the same family, i.e., Araceae. But if you look further deeper, then you can better have a look at the differences. Both these plants are entirely different in terms of genus.
Pothos belong to the Epipremnum genus, while the philodendrons belong to the Philodendron Genus.
Different species of these plants come from different pothos varieties, as in jade pothos, neon, and the golden Pothos; the genus species is Epipremnum Aureum. Other than this, the botanical names of these plants are also different, but there are several variations in their species.
Like the heart-shaped philodendron got the name of Philodendron Hederaceum, the classic leaf heartleaf philodendron has various variations based on the green stripe and the velvety leaves. So, these are some of the taxonomical differences between these plants.
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Differences in the Shape and Texture of these Plants:
One can also differentiate these plants concerning body and texture. The leaves of both these plants are of heart shape, but the leaves of Philodendron are broader.
A dramatic curve is present in Philodendron, at the point where the leaf connects to the stem. Moreover, the leaves of the pothos plants are more thick and waxy compared to the heartleaf philodendron.
In the case of Pothos, the leaves arising from the stem are relatively less curved and more straight.

Different Aerial Roots and the Petioles:
You can also analyze the differences between these plants by pointing out their aerial roots and the petioles
Aerial Roots:
The aerial roots of both of these plants are primarily aggressive, which helps the plants to the vine and climb around the surfaces.
But the significant difference that lies here is that there is only one aerial node per root, but there are multiple small aerial roots per node in philodendrons. This makes the plant appear more untamed and vast.
Petioles:
Petioles are smaller stems responsible for aligning the leaves with the branches of the plant. The different growing patterns and habits of these plants indicate the significant other in between them.
The petioles of the pothos plants are intended to increase towards the stems, but the petioles are rounded in the case of philodendrons. There are also size differences between these plants, and philodendrons are thinner than the petioles of Pothos.
Different Growing habits and the Growth of new Leaves:
Cataphylls present in these plants also differentiate them from each other. In the case of philodendrons, the new leaves emerge from these cataphylls. The cataphylls then protect these tiny leaves with the growth.
Also, the cataphylls are intended to stay on the plant, even after falling off. But it is not the case in pothos leaves. New leaves in the Pothos grow simply by the unfurling of the previously present plant. It is how both the plants grow differently.
Growing Differences:
Undoubtedly, both the Pothos and the philodendrons have exact growth requirements and are usually lower-maintenance plants. But there are specific differences that differentiate between them. Let us have a look at these differences:
- Low light is more readily tolerated by the Pothos, while it is not the case with the philodendrons.
- Pothos do not get leggy, but philodendron gets leggy readily. It means that the new leaves can be quickly grown on the philodendrons (even if the sunlight is not enough).
- The propagation within the Pothos is easier as compared to the philodendrons.
- Pothos are found out to be more drought-tolerant.
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Variations of the Pothos and the Philodendrons:
Both of these plants have diverse variations, and hence one can get confused easily. But in comparison, the pothos plants have more variations and abundant as compared to the philodendrons.
Variations in Pothos:
Pothos plants are different concerning the striations and the colors, but there are no differences in the growing habits and the shape of the leaves. Some of the most common and eye-catching Pothos are gold-hued golden Pothos and Jade pothos.
Variations in the Philodendrons:
There are fewer variations of the philodendrons as compared to the Pothos. Therefore, the interpretation of these plants is not easy to differentiate, and one gets confused at first glance. Like it isn’t apparent to distinguish the Pink Princess philodendrons and the hope plant. Neon philodendrons are also one of the variations of these plants.
Another significant difference between these plants is that philodendrons can hold their color for longer than the Pothos.

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Sheath:
One of the vital signs to differentiate these plants is that the sheath in the philodendron emerges from the nodes. This sheath appears in between the middle finger and the forefinger.
Final thoughts:
To conclude, these differences are enough to differentiate the features of these plants. Also, you can quickly point out these plants. It is not easy to determine these plants at first glance, but a little inspection can help you differentiate between them.
In most cases, the labels from the retailers can be different as well. So, it would be best if you got to know about these plants for better identification.
Frequently asked Questions about Philodendron vs Pothos
Which is better, Pothos or Philodendrons?
Although both of these plants have different and unique specialties, philodendrons are considered better plants than Pothos. The reason behind this is the low caring conditions of philodendrons.
These plants require low light conditions as compared to Pothos. Other reasons that make philodendrons better include their easier propagation and more tolerance to cold water. It means that philodendrons are better than Pothos.
How can I identify my Philodendron?
You can identify a philodendron by looking at the texture of the plant. The foliage of these plants will help you differentiate easily. It usually comes out green, but sometimes the color is red, purplish, and coppery.
The veins of the leaves are sometimes red or white as well. Other differences with which the plants vary considerably include the leaves’ size, shape, and texture. Also, the fruit of these plants ranges from white to orange berries.
Can you mix the Pothos and Philodendrons?
Yes, you can easily mix these because of the low care needs of these plants. The lower maintenance of both of these plants is enough to complement each other. Like these plants can easily handle the low light, and the soil conditions are also the same. But you need to consider the maintenance of the water, as Pothos get easily prone to root rot. It can impact the growth of both these plants.
What do Philodendrons look like?
Philodendron can be easily identified if you know the features of these plants. It usually appears to be greenish-brown and fresh or sometimes orangey-brown from the bottom. These plants have aerial roots that help them to climb and absorb nutrients as per the requirements. It can also help to absorb moisture and nutrients.
What are the key differences between these Plants?
a. Pothos leaves are glossy.
b. Heart-shaped philodendrons are matte and elongated.
c. Pothos has solitary aerial roots and grooved petioles, while the philodendrons are thick, having clustered aerial roots.
d. Different cataphylls.
e. Differences in the variation of the new growth colors.