Golden Pothos vs. Philodendron

Written by Em Casalena
Updated: March 11, 2023
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Golden pothos and philodendrons are quite popular houseplants. It’s obvious why, of course. Both of these plants are tropical beauties that are quite easy to care for. However, they are not the same plants. Golden pothos refers to a species called Epipremnum aureum. Philodendrons are plants that are part of the large genus Philodendron. Both golden pothos and philodendrons are part of the same plant family, but they are separate plants and plant groups.

The differences between a pothos and a philodendron may be distinguished in a few very clear and very not-so-clear ways. In this guide, we’ll explore all of the differences you need to know about golden pothos vs. philodendrons, as well as some critical tips for growing either type of plant. These plants are pretty closely related, and they are both reasonably easy to care for as well!

Comparing Golden Pothos vs. Philodendron

Golden PothosPhilodendron
ClassificationEpipremnum aureumGenus Philodendron
Alternative NamesDevil’s Ivy, Devil’s Vine, Ceylon CreeperPothos (incorrectly), Heartleaf Plant
OriginSolomon Islands, French Polynesia, some parts of AsiaTropical regions of the Americas
DescriptionA species of plant in the Araceae family known for its stunning foliage, variegated varieties, and resilience as a houseplant.A massive genus of flowering plants under the family Araceae known for their large leaves.
UsesOrnamental houseplants and landscapingOrnamental houseplants and landscaping
Growth TipsAlways provide golden pothos with plenty of bright, indirect sunlight.Philodendron species typically need a lot of pot space to accommodate their roots.
Interesting FeaturesThis plant is known for being virtually unkillable and very resilient, which makes it an excellent houseplant.There are dozens of different philodendron species under the genus, including giant philodendrons, vilevines, and silver philodendrons.

The Key Differences Between Golden Pothos and Philodendron

As we mentioned earlier, the main difference between golden pothos and philodendrons is that golden pothos is a species under the genus Epipremnum, while philodendrons are any plants under the large genus Philodendron. They both are classified under the Araceae plant family.

Another way to distinguish between these plants is by looking at their leaves. Many philodendrons have more heart-shaped leaves with a thinner and softer texture. There is even a philodendron species known as the heartleaf philodendron. On the other hand, golden pothos has leaves that are waxier and thicker. Particularly obvious are these leaf variations at the point where the petiole joins the leaf’s base.

Additionally, the roots of these two plants differ from one another. There are key differences between the aerial roots and petioles of philodendrons and pothos. Both philodendrons and pothos have tenacious aerial roots that enable them to climb and grow over objects like trellises or forest plants and rocks. However, philodendrons sometimes have several tiny aerial roots per node and have a tendency to look a lot more untamed and wild than pothos, which only have one huge aerial root per node.

An alternative approach to differentiate between golden pothos and philodendrons is to check for cataphylls. On a trailing philodendron, new leaves develop from cataphylls, which are essentially tiny leaves that surround and shield the new leaf as it develops and grows into a full-sized leaf. After the new leaf has unfolded and matured, they often stay on the plant until they finally dry out and fall off. This is not how golden pothos plants produce new leaves. New leaves on pothos plants simply grow and unfold from the parent leaf, as opposed to developing from cataphylls.

These plants have some notable similarities in addition to their differences. Pothos and philodendrons are both regarded as low-maintenance houseplants and have fairly similar requirements for sunshine, soil, water, humidity, and temperature. However, there are a few subtle variations that are important to be aware of. While philodendrons and golden pothos can both withstand low light, philodendrons may do so more easily. Furthermore, pothos like somewhat warmer conditions and climates than philodendrons do. Both philodendrons and pothos can be multiplied or propagated through cuttings. However, philodendrons have the potential to grow offsets that may be utilized to multiply the plant. In addition, pothos can withstand droughts and general neglect better than philodendrons.

Heartleaf Philodendron hederaceum

Philodendrons (pictured) tend to be a bit hardier outdoors than golden pothos plants.

©iStock.com/Amphawan Chanunpha

Golden Pothos vs. Philodendron: Classification

Golden pothos are classified as Epipremnum aureum. As members of the Epipremnum genus, golden pothos are closely related to Epipremnum giganteum, Epipremnum carolinense, and Epipremnum pinnatum.

Philodendrons are classified as any species under the genus Philodendron. This genus is particularly well-known for having a massive number of species. Currently, it is believed that this genus has 489 species. In general, all plants in this genus are collectively referred to as philodendrons. A few common philodendron species include the silver philodendron, the heartleaf philodendron, the pacová, and the blotched philodendron. Both golden pothos and philodendron species are part of the Araceae family, making them somewhat closely related to one another but also very distinct.

Golden Pothos vs. Philodendron: Description

The climbing vine Epipremnum aureum, often known as golden pothos or devil’s ivy, has a large number of leaves that are either solid green or white and yellow-marbled. It can grow up to 20 to 40 feet in vine length and is able to climb tree trunks via its adaptable aerial rootlets in its natural habitat. It also can act as a ground cover. Golden pothos is an evergreen plant and has thick, waxy, heart-shaped leaves. It is frequently cultivated as a hanging plant by houseplant enthusiasts. Pothos has aerial roots that allow it to climb, and other plants growing in the wild or outdoors may grow to incredible heights when supported by big trees.

About 489 species of stout-stemmed climbing herbaceous plants from the Araceae family are found in the Philodendron genus. Many species start off as vines before evolving into epiphytes, a.k.a. plants that live on other plants, or vines themselves. Philodendron species often have huge, imposing leaves that are lobed or deeply cut and may or may not be pinnate. There are many different conceivable shapes for them, including oval and spear-shaped. Philodendrons are well known for having a number of differently-sized leaves per individual plant.

Golden Pothos vs. Philodendron: Uses

Golden pothos and philodendrons are almost exclusively used as houseplants or landscaping ornamental plants. Both can be grown indoors and outdoors, but philodendron species are often grown outdoors because of their size. Golden pothos can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 10 through 12. Philodendrons can be grown in USDA hardiness zones nine through 12. Both pothos and philodendrons are popular indoor houseplants because they have excellent air purification properties.

golden pothos

Golden pothos (pictured) are popular indoor houseplants due to their ease of care.

©iStock.com/Firn

Golden Pothos vs. Philodendron: Origin

The golden pothos plant is native to French Polynesia. However, it has since become naturalized in a number of different places, such as South Africa, Australia, southern Asia, and the Pacific Islands.

Philodendrons are native to a number of places, as the genus contains many different species. Philodendrons can be found in tropical regions of the Americas, the West Indies, Australia, and some areas of the Pacific Islands and Asia. Some philodendrons have been naturalized in areas of Africa as well.

Golden Pothos vs. Philodendron: How to Grow

The golden pothos thrives in the south Pacific Islands, where temperatures range from 70 to 90 degrees F, so try to replicate these temperatures where your plant is. Placing a pothos close to a window or air conditioning vent might result in harm or stunted development in your plant. For best development and plant health, treat this species with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the spring and summer. Every two years, examine the roots, and if it’s time to repot, use a container with an additional two inches in diameter or larger. Use containers with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging of your roots. Additionally, to avoid difficulties with overwatering and root rotting, always use high-drainage soil. These plants can also benefit from overhead watering. By simulating rain, which occurs naturally in their habitat, these plants can be cleaned of dust and given proper water and humidity. Allow your plant to drain and naturally air dry.

Philodendrons come in a variety of species, each with specific growth and maintenance needs. However, the needs of most species are the same. Pick a pot with drainage holes to start. A container with drainage holes can lessen the possibility of overwatering your plant by allowing extra water to drain. Using soil that drains properly and has some sand or perlite in the mix can lessen the chance of overwatering and root rot. It is also wise to put your philodendron in a location with lots of light. In bright and indirect light, philodendrons flourish quite easily. They seldom ever see direct sunlight in their native tropical environment surrounded by trees. Every seven to 14 days, give your philodendron some water. You’re probably overwatering the plant if its leaves turn yellow and begin to fall off, or if your philodendron has a generally pale appearance. Allow the top inch of soil to completely dry out in between waterings to prevent this common issue.

Golden Pothos houseplant with yellowing leaves

Golden pothos (pictured), like philodendrons, will start to yellow if they are overwatered.

©Shadow Inspiration/Shutterstock.com

Golden Pothos vs. Philodendron: Protections and Conservation

Golden pothos plants are not considered endangered or protected in any nation. In fact, they are considered an invasive species in places like Hawaii, Puerto Rico, St. Lucia, Micronesia, and many others. Philodendrons are listed as endangered in Ecuador.

Golden Pothos vs. Philodendron: Special Features

Golden pothos are known for their ability to filter a number of toxic chemicals from the air of indoor places, given a large number of plants are kept in a small space. Pothos are also known for having many different varieties, which range from deep green hues to variegated leaf patterns in yellow, white, cream, light green, etc.

Philodendrons can either start their life cycle in soil or on the sides of trees. They are also notoriously tough and can handle very steep falls from the tops of tree canopies to the ground. In many cases, a philodendron that has fallen will simply root in the soil and begin its climb toward the tops of trees once again.

Golden pothos and philodendron species are lots of fun to care for, whether you grow them outdoors or indoors. While both plants are related and have similar care requirements, knowing the key differences between these plants is quite important if you plan on growing one or the other. Either way, you’ll have some gorgeous tropical greenery in your home for years if you can handle both these plants’ ongoing maintenance.

Want to learn more about the eye-catching pothos houseplant? Check out our in-depth guide to everything you need to know about pothos!

The photo featured at the top of this post is ©


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About the Author

Em Casalena is a writer at A-Z Animals where their primary focus is on plants, gardening, and sustainability. Em has been writing and researching about plants for nearly a decade and is a proud Southwest Institute of Healing Arts graduate and certified Urban Farming instructor. Em is a resident of Arizona and enjoys learning about eco-conscious living, thrifting at local shops, and caring for their Siamese cat Vladimir.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) 

Are pothos and philodendrons the same thing?

Both plants are part of the same family (Araceae) but are different plants entirely.

What are the genus of golden pothos and philodendrons?

Pothos plants are part of the Epipremnum genus and philodendron plants are part of the Philodendron genus.

Are there differences between golden pothos and philodendrons?

Both plants have heart-shaped leaves, but philodendrons are typically wider and have a sharper curve.

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