Introduction
Philodendrons and pothos are two of the most popular houseplants available today. They belong to the Araceae plant family and have vining growth habits. While they look quite similar at first glance, there are some key differences between philodendron and pothos plants.
In this article, we’ll go over the distinguishing features of each plant to help you identify philodendron vs pothos. We’ll also cover care tips and ways to incorporate these versatile plants into your home décor.
Appearance and Growth Habits
Leaf Shape and Size
The most obvious difference between philodendrons and pothos are the leaves. Philodendron leaves are heart-shaped or oval with a distinctive split leaf or deeply-lobed shape. The leaves can be solid green, variegated, or speckled. They grow upward on slender stems that may trail or climb.
Pothos leaves are thicker, waxier, and have a teardrop or rounder shape without lobes. They are asymmetrical at the base and are typically solid green or variegated with yellow or white. Pothos leaves grow on short stems directly from the main vine.
Philodendron leaves can grow quite large, up to 16 inches long for some varieties. Pothos leaves rarely exceed 10 inches.
Stem and Growth Pattern
Philodendrons and pothos both have long, trailing stems. However, a philodendron’s stems are smooth and slender while pothos stems are thicker and rougher.
Philodendrons also have a vining growth pattern, with aerial roots that allow them to attach to surfaces and climb. Pothos plants exhibit a trailing growth habit instead of climbing. Their stems get longer and produce leaves across intervals.
Flowering
Given ideal growing conditions indoors, pothos may produce small greenish-white flowers. However, this is quite rare.
Philodendrons can bloom much more readily indoors. The flowers emerge from specialized bracts on the plant and are creamy-white in color for most varieties. Some philodendron species produce red, orange, or pink flowers.
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Care Requirements
Philodendrons and pothos have very similar care needs. Here are the key factors to keep in mind:
Light
Both plants do best in bright, indirect light. A south or west-facing window is ideal. Direct sunlight should be avoided as it can scorch their leaves, but a few hours of morning sun from an east-facing window is fine.
Grow them in low to moderate light conditions. If the leaves start to look thin and dull or turn lighter in color, give them more sunshine.
Water
Let the top inch or two of soil dry out between waterings. Check by sticking your finger in the potting mix rather than on a strict time schedule. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
They like their soil to be moist but not soggy. Humidity is also important, especially for philodendrons. Consider using pebble trays or a humidifier to boost moisture in the air.
Soil
A general houseplant potting mix amended with perlite provides good drainage. Or you can make your own mix with compost, perlite or vermiculite, and bark chips or coconut coir.
Use containers with bottom drainage holes and only repot when the roots have filled the pot. Go up just one size at a time to avoid shock.
Temperature and Humidity
Both plants thrive in average room temperature and humidity. Ideal conditions are 65-80°F (18-27°C) and 40-50% humidity. Avoid drafty areas.
Philodendrons are more sensitive to low humidity than pothos. Tropical jungle plants by nature, they appreciate regular misting of their leaves to mimic their native environment.
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Using Philodendrons vs Pothos in the Home
As Houseplants
The bushy, trailing growth habit of both pothos and philodendrons make them excellent houseplants. Display them in hanging baskets or training them to climb up supports like a moss pole or trellis.
Smaller varieties work well in dish gardens combined with other plants. Tuck them into low light spots to add greenery and color.
In Hanging Baskets
Let the long vines of pothos and smaller-leaved philodendron species spill over the sides of a hanging basket. The cascading leaves create an elegant, natural design.
For philodendrons, provide a moss stick or other support in the center for the stems to climb up. Pothos will simply drape down.
As Climbers
Philodendrons are the ultimate climber thanks to their aerial roots which allow them to attach to surfaces and grow upward. Use plant hooks on the wall or a trellis to train the vining stems.
Pothos don’t have true aerial roots but can be pinned to supports or allowed to trail downwards. Grow pothos up a moss pole or weave stems through trellises.
Key Differences Summarized
- Philodendron leaves are heart-shaped; pothos leaves are rounder and tear-drop shaped
- Philodendrons have long, slender stems; pothos stems are thicker
- Philodendrons can readily climb surfaces with aerial roots; pothos vines trail or drape over edges
- Philodendrons generally have larger leaves, up to 16 inches; pothos rarely exceed 10 inches
- Philodendrons bloom quite easily indoors; pothos rarely flower inside
While their care is very similar, philodendrons and pothos have distinct appearances and growth habits. Examine the leaves, stems, and growth pattern closely to quickly tell the two plants apart.
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Conclusion
Philodendrons and pothos are often assumed to be the same plant since they look so alike at first glance. However, once you know what to look for it’s easy to tell the difference between these two popular houseplants.
Check the leaf shape and size, stems, and growth habits. Philodendrons have heart-shaped leaves that can grow quite large, long slender stems, and an aerial root system that allows them to readily climb up supports. Pothos leaves are smaller and rounder without lobes, the stems are thicker, and the vines exhibit a trailing habit rather than climbing.
Understanding the nuances between these two plants will help you select the variety that is best suited to your growing conditions and décor needs. With their easy-going nature and lush foliage, both philodendrons and pothos make excellent additions to any indoor garden.
FAQs
Can philodendron and pothos be grown in water?
Yes, both plants can be grown hydroponically in just water. Trailing philodendron varieties such as heartleaf philodendron and Brazil philodendron along with golden pothos are common choices for water culture. Remove lower leaves and place cuttings in a vase or glass container.
What are some popular philodendron varieties?
Some common philodendron types beyond the classic heartleaf philodendron include: Brasil philodendron, micans philodendron, Xanadu philodendron, Congo philodendron, and pink princess philodendron.
Do philodendrons and pothos plants purify air?
Yes! Both pothos and philodendrons are excellent air purifying plants that can help remove toxins from indoor air. The large, green leaves absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen through the process of photosynthesis.
How do I propagate pothos and philodendrons?
These plants root readily from stem cuttings in either water or soil. Take 4-6 inch cuttings, remove lower leaves, and place in water or potting mix. Keep evenly moist until new roots and leaves emerge. Then transplant into a container.
What causes yellow leaves on philodendrons or pothos?
Yellowing leaves are usually a sign of overwatering. Allow the soil to dry out more between waterings. Insufficient light can also cause yellow leaves. Move the plant to a brighter location or use grow lights to supplement natural sunlight.
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