Pothos vs. Philodendron: Are Pothos And Philodendron the Same?
Leaf shape: Philodendron leaves are distinctly heart-shaped, with a pronounced curve at the widest part of the leaf. The leaves, which grow from flexible, thin stems have a long, pointy tip that resembles a spout. Pothos plant leaves tend to be larger and they lack philodendron’s dramatic heart shape. Pothos leaf tips are shorter and less pointed. Leaf texture and finish: Philodendron leaves are thinner with a smooth, velvety feel. Pothos leaves are thicker and slightly waxy, with a defined ridge down the center. Aerial roots: Pothos and philodendron both have aerial roots—above ground roots that allow the vines to anchor to surfaces like trees, walls, or rocks. Pothos develops wide, stubby, aerial roots with a single root to a node. Philodendron’s aerial roots also grow from nodes, but they consist of clusters of smaller, thinner roots. Growth habits: Pothos and philodendrons are hardy plants that thrive with minimal care, although pothos tend to be slightly tougher. Both grow in semi-shady conditions, but philodendrons will eventually get leggy without sufficient sunlight. Pothos plants are also slightly more drought-tolerant than philodendron and can get by with a bit more neglect. Propagation: When it comes to propagating new pothos or philodendron plants, both are a cinch to propagate via cuttings in water or soil and both root quickly.
