Indoor Plants Philodendron and Pothos

Both philodendron, P. scandens oxycardium, and pothos, Pothos aureus, also known as Epipremnum aureum, grow year-round outdoors in frost-free areas and indoors as houseplants. They are long, leafy vines that can be trained on trellises and archways, either inside or out. Both are popular as hanging plants as well. The differences between the two plants are in origin, color and texture of leaves, and soil requirements.

Philodendron Has Small, Shiny Leaves

Philodendron originated in South and Central America and has small, shiny, dark green leaves that have a leathery feel. The leaves have a distinctive heart shape and have a more delicate appearance than pothos, whose stems are stiffer and more substantial. Philodendron likes a filtered light and damp soil with extra peat moss. It has been known to grow for long periods in a bowl or vase of water.

Pothos Has Large, Waxy Leaves

Pothos, whose native land is the Solomon Islands, has large leaves with a waxy feel and a satiny glow rather than a bright shine. Though the leaves start green, they usually become marbled with white or creamy yellow as they age. The more light the leaves have, the more variegated they become. Pothos does not tolerate soggy soil and will rot if kept wet too long. This is a plant that doesn’t mind benign neglect in the form of having dry soil for a while, so forgetting to water pothos occasionally might actually be beneficial in avoiding over watering. Low and indirect light is good for pothos. Unfiltered direct sunlight will bleach and burn the leaves.

Keep the Vines Up and Out of Reach

To create a bushy plant that can be placed on a stand or table rather than a climbing or hanging plant, pinch off the tips of new growth or cut off entire tendrils to encourage branching and denser foliage. If there are children and pets in the same household with pothos and philodendron, they should not be allowed to play with either vine. The sap can irritate skin if leaves or stems are broken or chewed.

Care and Feeding of these Indoor Plants

In addition to watering on a regular basis, pothos and philodendron should be checked for insect pests, which should be washed off with warm water or wiped off with a cloth moistened with water and rubbing alcohol. Leaves should be washed or wiped clean of dust to encourage healthy growth. A standard houseplant food, either liquid or in spike form, should be used as directed by the manufacturer. Replace the soil and move the plant to a larger container if roots appear at the top of the soil or begin to grow out the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot or planter.