As I promised at the end of podcast episode #14 (#40 could help too), here it is y'all! It wasn't until recently that it FINALLY clicked what the differences between Pothos and Philodendron truly are! Below I explained the habit of each plant so you can see the comparisons for yourself!
Pothos
Known for having larger thicker leaves
Leaves keep getting larger when growing up a moss pole or trellis
Leaves are shaped similarly to a teardrop
The stems are a bit more rigid, not as flexible
New growth forms off the stem of an existing leaf (see the bottom left corner of the Pothos image to the left)
Many variegation option with shapes of green, yellow or white
Variegation comes in streaks, marbling and a combination
Philodendron
Known for having flexible, delicate & thinner leaves
Leaves are shaped similarly to a heart
The stems are a bit more flexible and delicate
New growth forms on it's own at the end of the stem.
Variegation is minimal on varieties- Brasil is one of the few
Variegation commonly found on the leaves as streaks- not marbling
Similarities
They are both from the Araceae Family
They both benefit from a bit of humidity
Both love to drape over its own pot OR climb up a moss pole or trellis
Propagation is easy- just cut below a leaf node (see image below)
A leaf node is at the base of a leaf where it meets the stem
It usually looks a bit thicker than the existing stem around it
Sometimes there is an aerial root at the leaf node as well
In this case- it is the white/green root forming
You can find these guys almost anywhere! Most plant shops have Pothos or Philodendron
Can find these EVERYWHERE- almost any plant shop will have them
Bottom Line:
How to check for the differences...
Leaf shape and stem flexibility
How new growth is forming
Other differences in my experience...
If you want a fast growing plant with VERY high tolerance, choose Philodendron
Pothos still get large but they don't grow as quickly
Philodendron's new stems and growth have a pink/red tint to it while Pothos is green or slightly lighter green
Now, I know there are Philodendron that obviously don't look like Pothos- like this Moonlight Philodendron that has a totally different leaf shape and growth.
If you want more information on Philodendron or Pothos varieties, and plant care, check out Podcast #5 and #14 or check out the corresponding blog posts (coming soon)! #pothos #philodendron #crazyplantlady #ihaveathingwithplants #plantcommunity #urbanjungle #funfacts #podcast #houseplanthomebody
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FUN FACT:
Those aren't all the Pothos or Philodendron I have- there were 5 not pictured! I have 9 Pothos (rooting more now) and 8 Philodendron of many varieties (one of the Brasil Philodendron in these pictures is for my sister!)
Always written with extreme plant passion!
Love, Holly
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