Money Plant And Pothos Same – The Expert’S Guide To Telling Them Apart

ByRimon Chowdhury Updated on

Have you ever stood in a garden center, staring at two lush, vining plants, wondering if “Money Plant” and “Pothos” are just different names for the same thing? You’re not alone! This is one of the most common points of confusion for new and even experienced plant parents.

I’m here to tell you that while the names are often used interchangeably, there’s a fascinating story behind them. Getting to the bottom of the money plant and pothos same question is simpler than you think.

In this complete guide, we’ll solve this botanical mystery for good. I promise to show you exactly how to identify these plants with confidence, understand their simple care needs, and turn your home into a thriving green oasis.

Let’s dive in and untangle these vines together!

So, Are Money Plant and Pothos Same? The Quick Answer

Here’s the simple truth: most of the time, when people in many parts of the world (especially in South Asia) say “Money Plant,” they are referring to the exact same plant known elsewhere as “Pothos” or “Devil’s Ivy.”

The scientific name for this incredibly popular houseplant is Epipremnum aureum. So, if you have a vining plant with heart-shaped leaves that’s called a Money Plant, chances are it’s a Pothos.

However, the confusion arises because a few other, completely different plants are also famously called “Money Plant.” This guide will help you spot the differences so you always know exactly what plant you’re bringing home.

Meet the Family: Unpacking the Names and Origins

To truly understand the “money plant and pothos same” debate, it helps to know the key players. Think of it like meeting the family—they might share a last name, but they all have unique personalities.

The Star of the Show: Epipremnum aureum (Pothos / Devil’s Ivy)

This is the plant at the heart of the matter. Native to Southeast Asia, this member of the Araceae (Arum) family is beloved for its resilience and beautiful, variegated leaves. It earned the nickname “Devil’s Ivy” because it’s famously hard to kill and stays green even when kept in near darkness.

In many cultures, it’s called a Money Plant due to its roundish leaves that can resemble coins and a belief that it brings good fortune and prosperity to the household.

The Other “Money Plants” You Should Know

Here’s where it gets interesting. Two other popular houseplants also carry the “Money Plant” nickname, but they look completely different.

  • Chinese Money Plant (Pilea peperomioides): This quirky and charming plant features perfectly round, coin-like leaves that sit atop long, slender stems. It’s also called the “Pancake Plant” or “UFO Plant.”
  • Money Tree (Pachira aquatica): This plant is actually a tree, often sold with a braided trunk. It has large, palmate leaves (like fingers on a hand) and is a staple in Feng Shui for attracting wealth.

For the rest of this guide, when we discuss the money plant and pothos same care guide, we’ll be focusing on our star, Epipremnum aureum, since it’s the plant that carries both common names.

Your Visual Identification Guide: Key Differences at a Glance

Ready to become a plant identification pro? Let’s break down the visual clues. Once you know what to look for, you’ll never be confused again.

The Telltale Signs of a True Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)

This is the plant you’re most likely to encounter. Look for these key features:

  • Leaf Shape: The leaves are distinctly heart-shaped, with a pointed tip. They have a slight fold down the middle where the leaf emerges.
  • Leaf Texture: The leaves have a waxy, slightly raised texture. You can feel the veins, but they aren’t deeply indented.
  • Stems and Growth: Pothos has thick, flexible stems that produce small brown nubs called aerial roots. These help the plant climb and trail. The growth pattern is a classic cascading vine.
  • Color Variations: Pothos comes in many beautiful varieties, like Golden Pothos (green with yellow splashes), Marble Queen (creamy white and green), and Neon Pothos (bright chartreuse).
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Spotting the Chinese Money Plant (Pilea peperomioides)

You can’t mistake this one once you’ve seen it. Its features are very different from a Pothos.

  • Leaf Shape: The leaves are almost perfectly round or coin-shaped. They are flat like a pancake.
  • Leaf Texture: The leaves are smooth and leathery.
  • Stems and Growth: A central, upright woody stem produces long, delicate leaf stalks (petioles) that attach to the center of the leaf, giving it that signature UFO look. It grows upwards and produces “pups” from its base.

Identifying the Money Tree (Pachira aquatica)

This one is the easiest to distinguish from the others.

  • Leaf Shape: The leaves are palmate, meaning they grow in a cluster of five to seven leaflets, resembling a hand.
  • Trunk: Its most famous feature is the thick, woody trunk, which is often braided when sold as a houseplant.
  • Growth Habit: It’s a true tree that grows upright, not a vine.

The Ultimate Money Plant and Pothos Same Care Guide

Here’s the best part: because the most common Money Plant and Pothos are the same species, their care is identical! Don’t worry—these plants are perfect for beginners. Following these money plant and pothos same best practices will guarantee a happy, healthy plant.

Let There Be Light (But Not Too Much!)

Pothos is incredibly adaptable. It thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate low-light conditions surprisingly well. A spot near an east-facing window or a few feet back from a west-facing window is perfect.

Pro Tip: The more variegation (white or yellow) your Pothos has, the more bright, indirect light it needs to maintain its colors. In low light, it may revert to solid green.

The Perfect Drink: Watering Best Practices

The number one mistake gardeners make is overwatering! Pothos would much rather be a little too dry than too wet. Wait until the top 1-2 inches of soil are completely dry before watering thoroughly. Let the excess water drain out completely.

A simple finger test is your best friend here. If the soil sticks to your finger, wait a few more days before watering.

Choosing the Right Home: Soil and Potting

Pothos isn’t fussy about soil, but it requires good drainage to prevent root rot. A standard, high-quality indoor potting mix is perfect. To boost drainage, you can add a handful of perlite or orchid bark to the mix.

Only repot your plant when it becomes root-bound (when roots start circling the bottom of the pot or growing out of the drainage holes), typically every 1-2 years.

Feeding Your Green Friend: Fertilizer Tips

During the growing season (spring and summer), feed your Pothos with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks, diluted to half-strength. In the fall and winter, you can stop fertilizing as the plant’s growth naturally slows down.

Sustainable Growth: Eco-Friendly Money Plant and Pothos Same Tips

Part of the joy of gardening is connecting with nature. Embracing some sustainable money plant and pothos same practices makes that connection even stronger. These plants make it easy to be an eco-conscious gardener!

Propagation: The Gift That Keeps on Giving

One of the most rewarding things about Pothos is how easy it is to propagate. This is a wonderful, eco-friendly way to create new plants for free to share with friends or expand your own collection.

  1. Find a healthy vine and cut a 4-6 inch section just below a node (the small bump on the stem where a leaf grows). Ensure your cutting has at least 2-3 leaves.
  2. Remove the lowest leaf on the cutting.
  3. Place the cutting in a jar of water, making sure the node is submerged.
  4. Put it in a spot with bright, indirect light and change the water weekly. In a few weeks, you’ll see roots!
  5. Once the roots are an inch or two long, you can plant your new Pothos in soil.

More Eco-Friendly Ideas

  • Peat-Free Potting Mixes: Look for sustainable soil options that use coco coir or compost instead of peat moss, which is a non-renewable resource.
  • Natural Pest Control: If you spot pests, reach for neem oil or insecticidal soap instead of harsh chemical pesticides.
  • Upcycled Planters: Get creative! Old mugs, cans, or jars can make beautiful and unique planters (just be sure to add drainage holes).
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Common Problems with Money Plant and Pothos Same (and How to Fix Them!)

Even the toughest plants can have an off day. Here’s a quick troubleshooting guide to some common problems with money plant and pothos same and how to get your plant back on track.

Yellowing Leaves: What Are They Trying to Tell You?

A few yellow leaves now and then are normal, but widespread yellowing is almost always a sign of overwatering. The soil is staying wet for too long, suffocating the roots. Let the soil dry out completely before watering again, and ensure your pot has good drainage.

Brown, Crispy Edges: A Sign of Thirst

If the leaf edges are turning brown and crispy, your plant is likely too dry. This can be from underwatering or very low humidity. Check the soil, and if it’s bone-dry, give it a good soak. You can also increase humidity by misting the leaves every few days.

Leggy Growth: Reaching for the Light

Are the stems long and sparse, with lots of space between the leaves? This means your plant is “reaching” for more light. Move it to a brighter location. Pruning the leggy stems will also encourage bushier, fuller growth.

Frequently Asked Questions About Money Plant and Pothos

Is Pothos toxic to cats and dogs?

Yes, unfortunately. Epipremnum aureum contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing if ingested by pets. It’s best to keep this plant out of reach of curious cats and dogs.

What are the benefits of money plant and pothos same?

Beyond their beauty, these plants are known for being excellent air purifiers, capable of removing common indoor toxins like formaldehyde and benzene from the air. They are also incredibly low-maintenance, making them fantastic for boosting mental well-being without adding stress.

How fast do they grow?

In ideal conditions (bright, indirect light and consistent care), Pothos can grow very quickly! It’s not uncommon for vines to grow 12-18 inches in a single month during the peak growing season.

Can I grow money plant or pothos in just water?

Absolutely! Pothos is one of the best plants for hydroponic (water-only) growing. Just place a cutting in a vase of water, and it will live happily for years. Just remember to change the water every 1-2 weeks and add a drop of liquid fertilizer once a month to provide nutrients.

Your Journey to Lush Greenery Starts Now

So, is a Money Plant and Pothos the same? Most of the time, yes! You can now confidently walk into any nursery and know that the vining, heart-leaved beauty is Epipremnum aureum, no matter what the tag says.

You’re also equipped with all the money plant and pothos same tips you need to help it thrive. This isn’t just a plant; it’s a resilient, air-purifying, and beautiful companion that asks for very little in return.

So go ahead, grab that beautiful vine, and don’t get hung up on the name. Just enjoy the simple, rewarding journey of watching it grow and fill your home with life. Happy gardening!

Rimon Chowdhury
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