Philodendron ‘Golden Saw’ and Philodendron ‘Golden Crocodile’ are two popular choices for houseplant enthusiasts, both celebrated for their distinctive golden-hued foliage. While they share a genus and a vibrant color palette, these two Philodendron varieties exhibit unique characteristics that set them apart. This article explores the key differences in their visual appearance, growth habits, and cultivation, helping plant lovers understand what makes each plant special.
Visual Distinctions
The most apparent differences between ‘Golden Saw’ and ‘Golden Crocodile’ lie in their foliage, particularly leaf shape and texture. Philodendron ‘Golden Saw’ is recognized for its dramatically serrated, elongated, pointed leaf edges. New leaves frequently emerge with a bright orange or yellow tint, gradually maturing to a vibrant golden-green or chartreuse. Leaves have a smooth, thick, semi-glossy surface. The name ‘Golden Saw’ directly refers to this distinctive jagged outline.
In contrast, ‘Golden Crocodile’ also features deeply lobed leaves, but its distinguishing characteristic is a unique, often undulated or “bumpy” leaf surface, often described as resembling a crocodile’s skin. While it also presents deeply toothed or jagged edges, its overall texture and morphology differ from the ‘Golden Saw’s’ sharper serrations. Its foliage typically displays a range of golden-yellow, chartreuse, and green hues, with new leaves sometimes having a bronze tint before transitioning to golden yellow. Leaves are glossy and can develop intricate, raised veins.
Growth Patterns and Mature Size
Their growth patterns also present practical differences for indoor cultivation. ‘Golden Saw’ is a self-heading hybrid, growing upright with a wide, symmetrical base and typically not requiring climbing support. This makes it suitable for floor pots or a contained, bushy form. Indoor specimens typically reach 70-100 cm tall and 60-80 cm wide. Its growth rate is moderate.
‘Golden Crocodile’ can also self-head, but exhibits a more versatile growth habit. If provided with support like a moss pole, it can grow as a vine and climb. Without support, it can develop into a large floor plant, spreading over 3 feet with leaves reaching 2 feet or more. It is noted for its fast growth, especially with adequate light, reaching up to 4 feet tall and wide indoors. Its adaptable growth allows it to be a spreading bushy plant or a supported climber.
Cultivation and Care Similarities
As members of the Philodendron genus, both ‘Golden Saw’ and ‘Golden Crocodile’ share many fundamental care requirements, making them relatively easy to cultivate for houseplant enthusiasts. Both plants thrive in bright, indirect light conditions, which helps to maintain their vibrant golden foliage. Direct sunlight can potentially scorch their leaves, leading to discoloration. They prefer well-draining, airy potting mixes, such as those designed for aroids, often containing components like perlite, orchid bark, or coconut chunks to prevent waterlogging.
Regarding watering, it is generally recommended to allow the top inch or two of the soil to dry out before watering again. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensuring proper drainage is important. Both Philodendrons appreciate moderate to high humidity levels, typical of their tropical origins. Misting the leaves, using a humidity tray, or placing a humidifier nearby can help create a suitable environment. Ideal indoor temperatures for both fall within the range of 65-80°F (18-27°C). Fertilization with a balanced liquid fertilizer, typically applied monthly during the spring and summer growing seasons, supports healthy growth.
Background and Availability
Both Philodendron ‘Golden Saw’ and ‘Golden Crocodile’ are cultivated variants selected for their unique aesthetic qualities. ‘Golden Saw’ is often described as a hybrid or mutation, sometimes linked to Philodendron serratum. It is also called ‘Jungle Boogie’ aurea or ‘Gergaji Golden’ (‘Gergaji’ is Indonesian for “saw”), emphasizing its distinct leaf shape.
‘Golden Crocodile’ is also a hybrid cultivar, sometimes identified as a mutation from Philodendron ‘Ring of Fire’. It is sometimes interchangeably known as ‘Golden Saw Philodendron’, ‘Golden Serratum’, or ‘Golden Jungle Boogie’, which can lead to market confusion. Both have gained popularity among houseplant enthusiasts. ‘Golden Saw’ is somewhat rare and sought after, while ‘Golden Crocodile’ is generally more widely available. Both can be found through specialized plant retailers and online.
Choosing the Right Philodendron
Choosing between ‘Golden Saw’ and ‘Golden Crocodile’ depends on personal aesthetic preference and desired growth habit. The primary distinction is leaf morphology: ‘Golden Saw’ has a more pronounced, clean, deeply serrated edge, resembling a saw blade. Its leaves are typically elongated and smooth. It maintains a self-heading, upright, compact form, suitable for those preferring a less sprawling plant that doesn’t require climbing support.
Conversely, ‘Golden Crocodile’ stands out with its textured, somewhat bumpy leaf surface, providing a unique tactile and visual element reminiscent of reptile skin. While also serrated, its lobes can be wider, and the overall leaf shape appears more robust. This variety offers growth flexibility, capable of being a bushy, self-heading plant or a climbing specimen if supported. Both are relatively easy-care Philodendrons, so the choice often hinges on whether one prefers the ‘Golden Saw’s’ sharp, distinct saw-like edges or the ‘Golden Crocodile’s’ rugged, textured appeal.