Monstera and Pothos are popular houseplants often confused due to their lush foliage and vining habits. While they are frequently found in similar indoor environments, understanding their distinct characteristics and care requirements is key to cultivating a thriving indoor garden.
Understanding Monstera and Pothos: Not the Same Plant
Monstera and Pothos, despite superficial similarities, belong to different plant genera. Monstera plants are classified under Monstera, while Pothos plants are primarily Epipremnum aureum. Both are members of the Araceae family, sharing tropical origins and climbing tendencies.
Their shared vining growth habit and ease of care often cause confusion. In nature, both grow large, climbing trees. Indoors, their mature sizes are more manageable, but distinct identification is important for proper care.
Key Visual Differences for Identification
A key difference between Monstera and Pothos is their leaves. Monstera leaves are larger and develop distinctive splits or holes (fenestrations) as they mature, such as deep splits (Monstera deliciosa) or holes within the leaf blade (Monstera adansonii). Pothos leaves are heart-shaped and remain whole, without natural splits or perforations.
Monstera leaves are glossy and larger, reaching up to 20 inches long indoors, creating a bold appearance. Pothos leaves are smaller, typically under 10 inches, with a smooth, waxy texture. Monstera stems are thicker and often ruffled where the leaf attaches, while Pothos stems are rounder and more slender.
Both plants produce aerial roots from the stem above the soil. Monstera’s robust, cord-like aerial roots attach to surfaces for climbing and absorb nutrients. Pothos also develops adhesive aerial roots for climbing. Monstera often appears bushier with large leaves and sturdy stems, while Pothos has a trailing nature, suitable for hanging baskets or cascading from shelves.
Shared Care Principles for Both Plants
As tropical plants, Monstera and Pothos share fundamental care requirements. Both thrive in bright, indirect light, ideally near an east or west-facing window, which provides ample light without scorching direct sun. While they tolerate lower light, growth may slow, and variegation or fenestrations might be less pronounced.
For watering, allow the top few inches of soil to dry between waterings. Overwatering causes root rot, so proper drainage is important. Both prefer a well-draining potting mix, often a peat-based blend with perlite or orchid bark for aeration and drainage.
Both Monstera and Pothos benefit from appropriate temperature and humidity. They prefer warm environments, typically 65-75°F (18-24°C). As tropical plants, they appreciate higher humidity, though average household humidity is often sufficient. Increasing humidity via misting, humidifiers, or pebble trays supports healthier foliage.
Specific Care Considerations for Each
While Monstera and Pothos share care similarities, their distinct growth habits require specific considerations. Monstera, especially Monstera deliciosa, benefits from vertical support as it matures. A moss pole or trellis encourages climbing, mimicking its natural habit and promoting fenestrations. Without support, Monstera may grow horizontally, producing fewer splits.
Monstera requires bright, indirect light for optimal growth and fenestration development. Insufficient light is a common reason for lack of splits. Regular fertilization during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer supports robust leaf growth.
Pothos is known for its adaptability and tolerance for a wider range of light conditions, including lower light. While bright, indirect light promotes vigorous growth and vibrant variegation, Pothos can survive in less ideal lighting, making it versatile. Its vining nature suits hanging baskets or trailing from shelves without rigid support.
Common Varieties and What to Look For
Both Monstera and Pothos have popular varieties with unique visual characteristics. Monstera deliciosa is recognized for its large, glossy leaves with significant splits and holes. Monstera adansonii, or Swiss Cheese Plant, features smaller leaves with distinct holes. Monstera borsigiana, a deliciosa sub-species, is smaller, faster-growing, often showing two rows of holes.
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) includes many common varieties. ‘Golden Pothos’ has green, heart-shaped leaves with yellow variegation. ‘Marble Queen Pothos’ displays green foliage with creamy white splashes, needing more light. ‘Neon Pothos’ has bright, chartreuse-yellow leaves that deepen with age. ‘Jade Pothos’ has solid deep-green leaves.
Troubleshooting Common Plant Issues
Both Monstera and Pothos can experience common issues, often related to improper watering or light. Yellowing leaves frequently signal overwatering, indicating soggy roots. Dry, crispy leaves or browning tips suggest underwatering or insufficient humidity. Adjusting watering frequency to allow the soil to dry between sessions often resolves these issues.
Pest infestations, like spider mites or mealybugs, can affect both plants. Regularly inspecting and wiping leaves clean helps deter pests and maintain health. Leggy growth (long stems with sparse leaves) indicates insufficient light. Moving the plant to a brighter location encourages denser, more compact growth.