The Golden Pothos is not a Philodendron, despite common misidentification. This confusion stems from their remarkably similar appearance as popular, easy-to-care-for, vining houseplants with heart-shaped foliage and tropical origins. The definitive answer lies in their scientific classification.
Clearing the Confusion: The Taxonomical Reality
Both the Golden Pothos and the common vining Philodendron belong to the same plant family, Araceae, or the aroids. This family includes other popular houseplants like Monsteras and Peace Lilies. Araceae is characterized by a unique flower structure called a spadix, though indoor specimens rarely bloom.
The two plants separate at the genus level, the next classification rank below family. Golden Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) belongs to the genus Epipremnum. The plant most often confused with Pothos is the Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum), which belongs to the vast genus Philodendron.
Key Physical Differences for Identification
The most reliable way to distinguish between the two plants is by examining the structure of their stems and new growth. New Philodendron leaves emerge encased in a protective, papery sheath called a cataphyll, which dries up and falls off once the leaf unfurls. Pothos leaves simply unfurl from the existing stem without this protective cover.
A key distinction is found in the petiole, the small stalk connecting the leaf blade to the main stem. Pothos petioles have a distinct, indented groove along their length, similar to a celery stalk. Philodendron petioles are fully rounded and smooth.
Golden Pothos leaves tend to be thicker, firmer, and have a waxy or glossy feel. Philodendron leaves are generally softer, thinner, and have a more papery or matte texture.
Pothos plants produce a single, thick, brown aerial root at each stem node, which acts as a strong anchor. Philodendrons produce thinner, more fibrous aerial roots, often with multiple roots emerging from a single node. While both have a heart shape, the Philodendron leaf is typically more symmetrical with a deeper indentation where the petiole connects, whereas the Pothos leaf can be slightly more asymmetrical.
Understanding the Care Nuances
While both plants are low-maintenance and often grown in similar conditions, subtle differences exist in their environmental preferences. Pothos plants, especially non-variegated varieties, are more tolerant of low-light conditions than Philodendrons. However, Golden Pothos requires brighter, indirect light to maintain its vibrant yellow and green variegation.
Pothos also exhibits a greater tolerance for drought and irregular watering, making it more forgiving of neglect. The thicker, waxy leaves of the Pothos are better adapted to retaining moisture. Philodendrons, with their thinner leaves, prefer more consistent soil checks, though they still require the top layer of soil to dry out between waterings.
Philodendrons tend to handle the average indoor humidity of most homes better than Pothos. Both plants benefit from occasional feeding during the growing season. Ultimately, Pothos is often the most forgiving choice for the forgetful plant owner due to its superior resilience to low light and drought.