Hawaiian Pothos vs Golden Pothos: A Detailed Comparison
Pothos plants are beloved for their beauty, adaptability, and ease of care, making them a favorite among indoor plant enthusiasts. Two of the most sought-after varieties are the Hawaiian pothos (Epipremnum aureum ‘Hawaiian’) and the Golden pothos (Epipremnum aureum). While these two plants share similarities, they also have unique characteristics that set them apart.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the differences and similarities between Hawaiian pothos and Golden pothos, covering their appearance, growth habits, care requirements, and the ideal conditions for each to thrive.
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Appearance: Distinctive Foliage and Growth Patterns
One of the most notable differences between Hawaiian pothos and Golden pothos lies in their foliage and growth patterns.
Golden Pothos
Golden pothos is known for its smaller, heart-shaped leaves with striking golden-yellow variegation that contrasts beautifully with the deep green. The leaves usually have a marbled pattern, where the yellow variegation is mixed with green, creating a vibrant, sun-kissed effect.
The vines of a Golden pothos tend to be slightly thinner and less robust than those of the Hawaiian variety, but they grow at a steady pace, making them a perfect choice for hanging baskets or trailing down bookshelves. As a smaller-leaved variety, Golden pothos tends to look more delicate and refined in indoor settings.
Hawaiian Pothos
Hawaiian pothos, on the other hand, is characterized by larger, broader leaves that often have more pronounced yellow and cream-colored variegation. The foliage on a mature Hawaiian pothos can grow significantly bigger than that of a Golden pothos, especially when given the right care and conditions. Hawaiian pothos leaves can sometimes grow up to a foot in length, especially when exposed to bright indirect light.
In terms of texture, the leaves of Hawaiian pothos are thicker and tougher, which gives the plant a more substantial, dramatic presence. Its vines are also sturdier, and the plant tends to grow more vigorously when compared to Golden pothos, often displaying a fuller, more robust appearance.
Growth Rate and Size
Golden Pothos Growth
Golden pothos grows at a moderate pace and can reach lengths of 6 to 10 feet indoors if given proper care. While it can thrive in lower light conditions, its growth rate and leaf size are more pronounced when exposed to brighter, indirect light.
One of the advantages of Golden pothos is its adaptability to different indoor conditions, which makes it a great plant for beginners. It’s ideal for smaller spaces or areas where a more compact, trailing plant is desired.
Hawaiian Pothos Growth
Hawaiian pothos is a more vigorous grower compared to its Golden counterpart, often growing faster and producing larger leaves. Given the right conditions, Hawaiian pothos can grow even longer than Golden pothos, with vines that easily exceed 10 feet indoors.
It tends to be more dramatic and expansive, so it’s perfect for larger spaces or if you’re looking for a more prominent display of lush greenery.
Lighting Needs: Sunlight Preferences
Both Golden and Hawaiian pothos are quite adaptable to different lighting conditions, but there are subtle differences in how they respond to light.
Golden Pothos Light Requirements
Golden pothos prefers bright, indirect light for optimal growth, which helps maintain its vibrant variegation. However, it is highly tolerant of low-light environments, making it one of the best houseplants for darker spaces. In low light, the plant will still grow, although the yellow variegation may become less pronounced, and the plant might develop a more solid green appearance.
Hawaiian Pothos Light Requirements
Hawaiian pothos also enjoys bright, indirect light, but its larger leaves thrive best when given access to slightly more light than Golden pothos. This variety can handle lower light, but due to the larger size of the leaves, it benefits from higher light exposure to maintain its impressive growth and leaf size.
If placed in lower light conditions, the variegation of Hawaiian pothos may fade, and the leaves may not grow to their full potential.
Care Requirements: Differences and Similarities
Both Hawaiian and Golden pothos are relatively low-maintenance, but understanding their slight differences in care can help you maximize their health and appearance.
Watering
- Golden Pothos: Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry. Golden pothos is somewhat drought-tolerant, so it can bounce back from occasional missed waterings.
- Hawaiian Pothos: Similar watering rules apply, but Hawaiian pothos may require slightly more frequent watering due to its larger leaves and faster growth rate. Always ensure the pot has proper drainage to avoid root rot.
Soil
Both plants prefer a well-draining, light potting mix. A standard houseplant mix works well, but you can improve drainage by adding perlite or orchid bark.
Humidity and Temperature
- Golden Pothos: Prefers average indoor humidity levels but can tolerate lower humidity environments. It thrives in temperatures between 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 29°C).
- Hawaiian Pothos: Hawaiian pothos enjoys a bit more humidity, so if you live in a dry climate or experience dry winters, misting the leaves occasionally or placing a humidifier nearby can be beneficial. Similar temperature ranges apply for Hawaiian pothos, though it may appreciate the higher end of that spectrum to support its faster growth.
Fertilization
Both Golden and Hawaiian pothos benefit from monthly feedings during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Reduce feeding in fall and winter when the plants’ growth slows down.
Propagation: How They Multiply
Both Golden and Hawaiian pothos are easy to propagate using stem cuttings. The process is identical for both varieties:
- Cut a vine just below a node (where the leaf meets the stem).
- Place the cutting in water or directly into soil.
- If propagating in water, wait for roots to grow before transferring to soil.
Propagation Speed
Due to Hawaiian pothos’ faster growth rate, it may develop roots and new growth slightly quicker than Golden pothos. However, both varieties propagate well and can be shared or used to expand your indoor plant collection.
Aesthetic and Interior Design Considerations
When choosing between Hawaiian and Golden pothos for your home, consider their visual impact.
- Golden Pothos: Its more delicate, smaller leaves and trailing vines make it ideal for creating a subtle yet lush green accent in smaller rooms, offices, or tighter spaces. It pairs well with modern or minimalist décor where a pop of color and foliage is desired.
- Hawaiian Pothos: The larger leaves and faster growth rate of Hawaiian pothos make it perfect for spaces where a bold, tropical feel is desired. It works wonderfully in larger rooms or areas where a statement plant can shine, such as a living room corner or cascading from a high shelf.
Which Pothos Is Right for You?
Choosing between Hawaiian and Golden pothos depends on your space, lighting, and aesthetic preferences.
- Choose Golden Pothos if you want a more compact, versatile plant that can thrive in a wide range of lighting conditions and doesn’t require much space.
- Choose Hawaiian Pothos if you have more room and prefer a bolder, more dramatic plant with larger, thicker leaves that grows faster and can serve as a focal point in your home.
Both plants are fantastic choices for indoor gardening and will add beauty and greenery to any space with minimal effort.
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