Neon Pothos vs Neon Philodendron: Key Differences

Indoor gardening enthusiasts often find themselves torn between the stunning neon pothos (Epipremnum aureum) and the equally vibrant neon philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum ‘Lemon Lime’).

While these two plants share a striking lime-green color, their differences in care requirements, growth habits, and overall appearance make each unique. In this comprehensive guide, we compare neon pothos and neon philodendron, helping you decide which is the better fit for your home or office.

1. Appearance: How to Identify Neon Pothos and Neon Philodendron

Leaf Shape and Texture

• Neon Pothos: The leaves of neon pothos are broad, heart-shaped, and slightly thicker with a waxy texture. Their edges are smooth, and the leaf surface has a subtle sheen.
• Neon Philodendron: The leaves of neon philodendron are thinner and more delicate, with a softer matte finish. They are also heart-shaped but tend to have a more elongated appearance compared to pothos.

Growth Habit

• Neon Pothos: This plant typically grows as a trailing or climbing vine, making it perfect for hanging baskets or trellises. The vines are thicker and sturdier.
• Neon Philodendron: It also trails and climbs but has a more delicate and graceful growth habit. The stems are thinner, adding an elegant touch to its appearance.

Color Intensity

Both plants are renowned for their neon-green hues. However, neon philodendron tends to have a slightly lighter and brighter tone compared to the deeper lime-green of neon pothos.

2. Growth Rate and Size

Neon Pothos

• Known for its vigorous growth, neon pothos can quickly fill a space with lush, cascading vines.
• Under optimal conditions, it can grow up to 10 feet indoors and even longer outdoors in tropical climates.

Neon Philodendron

• While also fast-growing, the neon philodendron has a slightly slower growth rate compared to neon pothos.
• Its vines usually reach about 6-8 feet indoors, making it a more compact option for smaller spaces.

3. Care Requirements: A Side-by-Side Comparison

Lighting Needs

• Neon Pothos: Thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate low-light conditions. Direct sunlight should be avoided to prevent leaf scorch.
• Neon Philodendron: Prefers similar lighting conditions but is slightly more tolerant of low-light environments, making it an excellent choice for dimmer areas.

Watering

• Neon Pothos: Requires watering once the top 1-2 inches of soil have dried. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so drainage is essential.
• Neon Philodendron: Needs slightly less water than pothos. Allow the soil to dry out more thoroughly between waterings to avoid overwatering.

Humidity

• Both plants thrive in moderate to high humidity levels. Regular misting or a nearby humidifier can enhance their growth, especially in dry climates.

Soil Preferences

• Neon Pothos: Prefers well-draining soil with a mix of potting soil, perlite, and peat moss.
• Neon Philodendron: Also requires well-draining soil but benefits from a slightly looser mix, allowing for better aeration around its delicate roots.

4. Maintenance and Pruning

Neon Pothos

• Regular pruning is necessary to control its vigorous growth and maintain its shape.
• Dead or yellowing leaves should be removed promptly to promote healthy growth.

Neon Philodendron

• Pruning is less frequent due to its slower growth, but trimming leggy vines helps encourage bushier growth.
• Its thinner stems require more gentle handling during pruning.

5. Propagation: Easy Methods for Both Plants

Neon Pothos

• Propagates easily through stem cuttings.
• Place the cutting in water or soil, ensuring at least one node is submerged or buried.
• Roots typically develop within 2-4 weeks.

Neon Philodendron

• Similar propagation process but may take slightly longer to root due to its thinner stems.
• Water propagation works exceptionally well for neon philodendron.

6. Common Problems and Solutions

Pests

• Both plants are susceptible to pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and scale.
• Regularly inspect leaves and wipe them with a damp cloth. Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for severe infestations.

Leaf Discoloration

• Neon Pothos: Yellowing leaves often indicate overwatering or poor drainage.
• Neon Philodendron: Brown tips usually result from low humidity or inconsistent watering.

Leggy Growth

• Both plants may become leggy in low light. Move them to a brighter location to encourage fuller growth.

7. Toxicity: A Caution for Pet Owners

Both neon pothos and neon philodendron are toxic to cats, dogs, and humans if ingested. Their leaves contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation, vomiting, and swelling. Keep these plants out of reach of pets and small children to ensure safety.

8. Styling and Decorating Tips

Neon Pothos

• Use neon pothos in hanging planters or let its vines cascade from a high shelf for a dramatic effect.
• Train it to climb a moss pole or trellis for vertical greenery.

Neon Philodendron

• Its delicate vines are ideal for smaller spaces or minimalist designs.
• Pair it with sleek pots or modern plant stands to enhance its elegance.

9. Which Plant Should You Choose?

The choice between neon pothos and neon philodendron ultimately depends on your preferences and space:

• Choose Neon Pothos if: You want a fast-growing, robust plant that can quickly fill large spaces with vibrant foliage.
• Choose Neon Philodendron if: You prefer a more delicate, compact plant with a brighter lime-green color and slightly lower maintenance needs.

Conclusion

Neon pothos and neon philodendron are both stunning plants that bring a burst of color to any indoor space. While they share some similarities, their differences in appearance, growth habits, and care requirements make each unique. By understanding these distinctions, you can confidently select the plant that best suits your style and living conditions.

• Author
• Recent Posts

Rimon Chowdhury

Gardener, Horticulturist and Author at GreenyGardener

Rimon Chowdhury, a gardening enthusiast with a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from the University of Rajshahi. His love for gardening began at a young age and He has been honing his skills for over 15 years.He is an expert in all aspects of gardening, from planting and watering to pest control and crop rotation. He is also dedicated to sustainable gardening practices and love sharing his knowledge with others through his website "greenygardner.com" and on social media platforms such as Facebook, Reddit, Twitter, and GardenStew.

Latest posts by Rimon Chowdhury (see all)

• Can Pothos Go Outside? - December 17, 2024
• Can Pothos Be in Direct Sunlight? - December 17, 2024
• Can I Repot Pothos in Winter? - December 17, 2024