Pothos vs Philodendron: Key Differences

By Emma Johnson · September 26, 2026

The Great Mix-Up

Pothos and philodendron are two of the most popular houseplants — and the most commonly confused. Both are trailing vines with heart-shaped leaves, both are easy to grow, and both belong to the Araceae family. But they are different genera with distinct characteristics.

Visual Differences

Leaf Shape and Texture

Pothos (Epipremnum aureum): Leaves are thicker, waxy, and slightly irregular in shape. The surface has a glossy, almost plastic-like sheen. Variegation tends to be marbled or splashed.

Philodendron: Leaves are thinner, softer, and more uniformly heart-shaped. The surface is matte rather than glossy. Variegation tends to be more uniform.

New Growth

Pothos: New leaves emerge from the current leaf stem, unfurling directly from the node.

Philodendron: New leaves emerge from a protective sheath called a cataphyll, which dries brown and papery as the leaf matures. This is the most reliable identifier.

Aerial Roots

Pothos: Aerial roots are thick and stubby, appearing one per node.

Philodendron: Aerial roots are thinner and appear in clusters of 2-4 per node.

Care Differences

Pothos: Slightly more drought-tolerant. Prefers slightly brighter light for best variegation. Tolerates more neglect.

Philodendron: Grows faster in warm, humid conditions. More sensitive to cold drafts. Produces larger leaves when given a climbing support.

Popular Varieties

Pothos: Golden Pothos, Marble Queen, Neon, Jade, N Joy
Philodendron: Heartleaf, Brasil, Micans, Pink Princess, Birkin

Quick ID Test

Look at where new leaves emerge. If there is a papery brown sheath (cataphyll), it is a philodendron. If the new leaf unfurls directly from the existing stem, it is pothos.