The trailing vines and heart-shaped foliage of two popular houseplants, often broadly referred to as Pothos, have created persistent confusion among plant enthusiasts. Despite their superficial similarity, the plants sold as Pothos and those sold as Satin Pothos belong to two distinct botanical groups. Understanding the scientific differences between these two plants provides clarity on their proper identity.
Defining the Genera: Are They the Same Plant?
The houseplant known as Pothos (Epipremnum), including varieties like ‘Golden Pothos’ and ‘Marble Queen,’ is scientifically distinct from the plant marketed as ‘Satin Pothos’ or ‘Silver Pothos’ (Scindapsus). Both genera are members of the Araceae family, which explains their similar appearance and growth habit. Taxonomically, the separation is based on reproductive structures. Scindapsus species have a single ovule within each ovary. In contrast, Epipremnum species possess multiple ovules. This structural difference confirms that, scientifically, they are not the same plant.
How to Visually Tell Them Apart
The easiest way for a grower to identify the plant is by examining the texture and pattern of the leaves. Epipremnum leaves, such as those on a ‘Golden Pothos,’ tend to have a smooth, glossy, and slightly waxy surface. Their variegation is typically a bright yellow, cream, or white, often appearing as streaks or marbling that follows the leaf edges.
Scindapsus leaves, particularly Scindapsus pictus varieties, are often slightly thicker and have a distinctive matte or velvety feel. The variegation in Scindapsus is almost always a reflective silver or grey, which appears as speckles or blotches embedded within the leaf structure. This silvery coloration gives the plant its common name ‘Satin Pothos.’
Why the Common Names Are So Confusing
The linguistic confusion stems from a long history of botanical misclassification dating back to the 19th century. The plant we now call Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) was first incorrectly named Pothos aureus. Later, it was again incorrectly reclassified into the Scindapsus genus as Scindapsus aureus.
Botanists definitively placed the plant into the Epipremnum genus only after observing its rarely produced flower structure. However, the original, incorrect common name “Pothos” had already become entrenched in commercial horticulture. Sellers leverage this familiarity by labeling the closely related Scindapsus pictus as “Satin Pothos” to make it instantly recognizable and marketable to customers.
Comparison of Care Requirements
Since Epipremnum and Scindapsus are closely related members of the Araceae family, their general care requirements are similar. Both thrive in bright, indirect light and tolerate lower light conditions, although variegation may fade in insufficient light. A well-draining potting mix is necessary for both to prevent root problems.
Subtle differences exist due to the thicker leaves of Scindapsus. These leaves store more water, allowing Scindapsus to tolerate going slightly longer between waterings than a typical Epipremnum. Scindapsus varieties are also more prone to leaf scorch if exposed to harsh, direct sunlight, requiring a more filtered light environment.