Philodendron Pothos Varieties – The Definitive Guide To Telling Them

ByRimon Chowdhury Updated on

Ever stood in a plant shop, staring at a cascade of heart-shaped leaves, and thought, “Is that a Philodendron or a Pothos?” Trust me, you are not alone. It’s one of the most common mix-ups in the houseplant world!

These two vining beauties are the bread and butter of indoor gardening for a reason: they’re forgiving, beautiful, and bring that lush, jungle vibe to any space. But knowing the difference is the first step to becoming a truly confident plant parent.

In this guide, we’re going to unravel this classic plant mystery once and for all. I promise to show you not only how to tell them apart but also how to choose and care for the most stunning philodendron pothos varieties available. We’ll explore a gallery of gorgeous plants, cover a complete care guide, and troubleshoot common issues.

Ready to turn your home into a green oasis? Let’s dive in!

The Great Debate: Philodendron vs. Pothos – How to Finally Tell Them Apart

While they look like twins, Heartleaf Philodendrons (Philodendron hederaceum) and Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) belong to completely different plant families. Knowing a few simple tells will make you an identification expert in no time.

Here’s the breakdown. Forget the confusing stuff; these are the three signs I always look for.

Leaf Shape and Texture

Get up close and personal with a leaf. A Heartleaf Philodendron leaf is typically thinner, softer to the touch, and has a more pronounced, symmetrical heart shape with a deep curve where it meets the stem. It often has a soft, almost velvety sheen.

A Pothos leaf, on the other hand, is thicker, waxier, and often larger. The heart shape is less defined and more irregular. If you feel it, it has more substance and a glossier finish than its Philodendron cousin.

Stems and New Growth

This is my favorite trick! Look at where new leaves emerge. Philodendrons produce new leaves from a cataphyll, which is a small, waxy sheath that protects the new leaf. This cataphyll will eventually dry up and fall off the vine.

Pothos don’t have this. A new Pothos leaf simply unfurls from the previous leaf’s stem, looking a bit like it’s being pushed out from the inside. It’s a subtle but surefire difference.

Aerial Roots

Both plants are climbers and use aerial roots to cling to surfaces. Look closely at the nodes (the little bumps on the stem where leaves grow). A Pothos will typically have just one thick aerial root per node.

A Philodendron is more generous with its roots, often producing several smaller, more delicate-looking roots at each node, giving it a more clustered appearance.

A Gallery of Gorgeous Pothos Varieties to Adorn Your Home

Pothos are the ultimate beginner’s plant. They’re resilient, fast-growing, and tolerate a wide range of conditions. Here are some of the most popular varieties to look for in this fantastic philodendron pothos varieties guide.

Golden Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)

The undisputed classic! Golden Pothos has green, heart-shaped leaves with splashes of creamy yellow. It’s incredibly adaptable and can thrive in lower light, though its variegation will be more pronounced in brighter spots.

Marble Queen Pothos

If you love variegation, Marble Queen is your plant. Its leaves are heavily speckled with creamy white and green, creating a stunning marbled effect. It grows a bit slower than the Golden Pothos because it has less chlorophyll, so give it plenty of bright, indirect light.

Neon Pothos

Talk about a showstopper! Neon Pothos has electrifying, chartreuse-green leaves that seem to glow from within. The leaves are solid-colored with no variegation. It’s a fantastic way to add a pop of vibrant color to your collection.

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Manjula Pothos

Manjula is a patented variety from the University of Florida, and it’s a true work of art. It features wide, heart-shaped leaves with wavy edges and a mix of green, silver, cream, and white variegation. Each leaf is a unique painting!

Exploring the Diverse World of Vining Philodendron Varieties

Vining Philodendrons are the epitome of elegance. Their delicate leaves and graceful vines add a touch of softness to any room. While there are hundreds of Philodendron species, these are the vining types you’re most likely to fall in love with.

Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum)

The original. This plant features deep green, perfectly heart-shaped leaves with a soft, velvety texture. It’s just as easy to care for as a Pothos and is incredibly rewarding as its vines quickly trail from shelves or hanging baskets.

Brasil Philodendron

The Brasil is a stunning cultivar of the Heartleaf. Its dark green leaves look like they’ve been painted with a brushstroke of chartreuse and yellow down the center. It’s a vibrant and easy-going plant that adds a touch of the tropics.

Micans Philodendron

Prepare to be mesmerized. Micans has velvety leaves that shimmer with an iridescent, purplish-bronze hue in the right light. The undersides of the leaves are a rich reddish-brown. It’s a truly unique and breathtaking plant that feels like pure luxury.

The Ultimate Philodendron Pothos Varieties Care Guide for Lush Growth

Here’s the best part: the care for both Pothos and vining Philodendrons is nearly identical! Mastering this simple routine is all you need. This is one of the biggest benefits of philodendron pothos varieties—they are beautifully low-maintenance.

Light: The Golden Rule

These plants thrive in bright, indirect light. Think of a spot a few feet away from an east-facing window or near a north-facing one. They can tolerate lower light, but their growth will slow, and variegated types may lose their coloring.

Pro Tip: Direct, hot sun will scorch their leaves, leaving brown, crispy patches. If you see this, move your plant to a shadier spot.

Watering: Less is More

The number one mistake new plant parents make is overwatering. These plants 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 again.

Stick your finger into the soil to check. If it feels damp, wait a few more days. When you do water, give it a thorough soak until water drains from the bottom of the pot, then discard the excess.

Soil and Potting

A standard, high-quality indoor potting mix works great. For even better results, I like to create a chunkier mix by adding a handful of perlite and orchid bark to the soil. This improves aeration and drainage, which is key to preventing root rot.

And please, always use a pot with a drainage hole. It’s non-negotiable for happy roots!

Humidity and Temperature

Being tropical plants, they love humidity! Standard household humidity is usually fine, but if your home is very dry (especially in winter), they’ll appreciate a boost. You can group plants together, use a pebble tray, or run a small humidifier nearby.

Feeding Your Green Friends

These plants aren’t heavy feeders. During the spring and summer growing season, feed them with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half-strength once a month. You don’t need to fertilize in the fall and winter when their growth naturally slows down.

Common Problems with Philodendron Pothos Varieties (and Easy Fixes!)

Even the easiest plants can have an off day. Don’t worry! Here’s a quick guide to troubleshooting some common problems with philodendron pothos varieties.

Why are the leaves yellow?

Yellowing leaves are most often a sign of overwatering. The soil is staying wet for too long, and the roots can’t breathe. Let the soil dry out completely before watering again. Less commonly, it can be a sign of underwatering, but in that case, the leaves will also look wilted and sad.

What are these brown spots?

Crispy brown spots or edges usually mean the plant is either getting too much direct sun (sunburn) or the air is too dry. If the spots are soft and mushy, it could be a sign of root rot from overwatering.

My plant is leggy!

A “leggy” plant has long, bare stems with leaves spaced far apart. This is a classic sign that your plant is not getting enough light. It’s literally stretching to find more sun! Move it to a brighter location and prune the long vines back to encourage fuller, bushier growth.

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Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Philodendron Pothos Varieties Best Practices

Gardening can be a wonderful way to connect with nature, and we can make choices that are kind to our planet. Here are some simple, eco-friendly philodendron pothos varieties tips.

Propagation: The Gift that Keeps on Giving

One of the best things about these plants is how easy they are to propagate. You can create new plants for free to share with friends or expand your own collection!

  1. Using clean scissors, cut a piece of vine that has at least 2-3 leaves and nodes.
  2. Remove the bottom-most leaf, leaving the node exposed.
  3. Place the cutting in a jar of water, making sure the node is submerged.
  4. Put it in a bright spot 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 baby in soil.

Choosing Peat-Free Soil

Many standard potting mixes use peat moss, which is harvested from sensitive peatland ecosystems. Look for sustainable, peat-free alternatives that use renewable resources like coco coir. Your plants will love it, and so will the planet.

Natural Pest Control

If you spot pests like spider mites or mealybugs, skip the harsh chemical sprays. A simple solution of diluted neem oil or insecticidal soap is a fantastic, sustainable philodendron pothos varieties approach to pest management that is safe for your home and the environment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Philodendron Pothos Varieties

Are Philodendron and Pothos toxic to pets?

Yes, both plants contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause mild to moderate irritation to the mouth, tongue, and stomach if ingested by cats or dogs. While rarely fatal, it’s best to keep them out of reach of curious pets and children.

Can I grow Pothos and Philodendron together in the same pot?

Absolutely! Since their light, water, and soil needs are virtually identical, they make excellent pot-mates. Combining different textures and colors, like a Golden Pothos and a Brasil Philodendron, can create a stunning mixed arrangement.

Why has my variegated Pothos lost its color?

This is almost always a lighting issue. When a variegated plant doesn’t get enough light, it will produce more chlorophyll to compensate, causing the leaves to revert to a solid green color. To bring the variegation back, move your plant to a spot with more bright, indirect light.

How fast do they grow?

In ideal conditions (good light, proper watering), both Pothos and Philodendrons are vigorous growers! During the spring and summer, their vines can grow several feet in a single season. This rapid growth is one of the most rewarding parts of owning them.

Your Journey to Lush Greenery Awaits!

Now you’re armed with all the knowledge you need to confidently identify, choose, and care for these incredible houseplants. Whether you’re drawn to the waxy leaves of a Marble Queen Pothos or the velvety sheen of a Micans Philodendron, you can’t go wrong.

Remember that the core of this philodendron pothos varieties care guide is simple: don’t overthink it. Provide good light, water when they’re dry, and enjoy the simple pleasure of watching them grow.

So go ahead, pick out your next green companion, and watch your indoor jungle thrive. Happy growing!

Rimon Chowdhury
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