While Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) and Philodendrons (a large genus with many species) are often confused due to their similar vining habits and heart-shaped leaves, they belong to different genera within the Araceae family. From a botanical perspective, they possess several distinct characteristics that allow for clear differentiation.
The leaf structure provides the most immediate visual clues. A new Philodendron leaf emerges tightly rolled within a protective sheath called a cataphyll. As the leaf grows, it unfurls from this sheath, which eventually dries up and falls off. In contrast, a new Pothos leaf simply unfurls from the previous leaf's sheath without a protective cataphyll. The leaf texture also differs significantly; Philodendron leaves are typically thinner, softer, and have a smooth, almost velvety feel. Pothos leaves are thicker, waxy, and have a raised, textured surface due to their slightly bumpy texture.
Both plants are climbers and produce aerial roots to anchor themselves to surfaces and absorb moisture and nutrients. However, the morphology of these roots is distinct. Philodendrons produce fine, hair-like aerial roots that emerge from the nodes along the stem. These roots are numerous and relatively delicate. Pothos, conversely, produces thicker, sturdier, and far fewer aerial roots per node. Typically, only one robust, brownish aerial root will emerge from a node, appearing more like a nub or a stub compared to the feathery network of a Philodendron.
The petiole (the stalk that connects the leaf blade to the stem) offers another key identifier. On a Philodendron, the petiole is characteristically rounded and uniform. Furthermore, it features a geniculum—a pronounced, knobby joint at the base of the leaf blade. This joint allows the leaf to rotate and orient itself towards available light sources. The petiole of a Pothos plant is distinctly different; it is deeply grooved or channeled on the upper surface, resembling the shape of a celery stalk. It also lacks the prominent, functional geniculum found in Philodendrons.
While both exhibit vining growth, their overall habit can vary. The common Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum) is a dedicated trailer/climber. However, the Philodendron genus is incredibly diverse and includes many non-vining, self-heading species like the Philodendron ‘Birkin’ or tree-climbing types like Philodendron gloriosum. The term "Pothos" almost exclusively refers to the vining Epipremnum aureum and its cultivars (e.g., Golden Pothos, Marble Queen). True Pothos do not exhibit the same wide range of growth forms and are predominantly known as vigorous, trailing vines.
