How To Tell Philodendron From Pothos

You can tell philodendron from pothos by examining a few key physical features.
 
Many plant lovers confuse them because both have heart-shaped leaves and similar care needs.
 
But once you know what to look for, telling philodendron from pothos becomes simple and fun.
 
In this post, we’ll cover the main differences so you can confidently tell philodendron from pothos every time.
 

How to Tell Philodendron from Pothos by Leaf Shape

The quickest way to tell philodendron from pothos is by leaf shape.
 

Philodendron Leaves Are More Heart-Shaped

Philodendron leaves have a distinct heart shape with a pronounced dip at the top where the petiole attaches.
 
This dip, called the sinus curve, is deep and obvious on philodendron varieties like Brasil or Heartleaf.
 
The leaves also tend to be a bit thinner and softer to the touch.
 
If you see that deep, dramatic heart shape, you’re likely holding a philodendron.
 

Pothos Leaves Are More Elongated and Less Dished

Pothos leaves also look heart-like but are more elongated and have a much shallower sinus curve.
 
The top of the leaf where it meets the stem is nearly straight or only slightly curved inward.
 
The overall shape is more like a teardrop or shield.
 
When you’re trying to tell philodendron from pothos, this difference in leaf contour is one of the most reliable clues.
 

Another Reliable Way: Telling Philodendron from Pothos by Stems and Petioles

Stems and leaf connections give you another clear sign to tell philodendron from pothos.
 

Philodendron Stems Are Slender and Round

Philodendron stems are relatively thin, smooth, and round in cross-section.
 
The petioles (the small stems attaching leaves to the main vine) are also long, rounded, and uniform in color.
 
Nodes where roots and leaves emerge are visible but not overly prominent.
 

Pothos Stems Are Thicker with a Distinctive Groove

Pothos stems are stouter, and each petiole has a noticeable groove or channel running down its length.
 
If you run your finger along the petiole, you’ll feel that indentation clearly.
 
The stems also have a more pronounced, almost woody texture on older growth.
 
Checking the petiole groove is a super quick way to tell philodendron from pothos without even looking at the leaf.
 

How to Tell Philodendron from Pothos by Leaf Texture and Color

Feel and color patterns can also help you tell philodendron from pothos.
 

Pothos Leaves Are Waxy and Thicker

Pothos leaves feel leathery, waxy, and slightly thicker than philodendron leaves.
 
This waxy coating helps pothos tolerate lower humidity and less frequent watering.
 
The surface often has a slight sheen or glossiness.
 

Philodendron Leaves Are Softer and Matte

Philodendron leaves are softer, thinner, and have a more matte finish.
 
They feel delicate and almost velvety on some varieties.
 
The green shades tend to be deeper and more uniform, though variegated types like Brasil have yellow or lime streaks.
 
If the leaf feels waxy like a plastic plant, it’s likely a pothos.
 

Color Variegation Differs Between the Two

Common pothos varieties like Golden Pothos have yellow, cream, or white splashes on green.
 
Philodendron variegation (like on Brasil) appears as central streaks or irregular patches rather than marbled speckles.
 
Also, mature philodendron leaves can develop fenestrations (splits or holes), while pothos leaves almost never do.
 

How to Tell Philodendron from Pothos by Growth Habit

Watching how the plant grows can also tell philodendron from pothos.
 

Philodendron Climbs with Aerial Roots

Philodendrons are true climbers that send out thick, aggressive aerial roots to grip surfaces.
 
They love to attach to moss poles or planks and will grow larger leaves when given support.
 
The internodes (spaces between leaves) are usually shorter, making the plant look fuller.
 

Pothos Trails More Readily

Pothos can climb too, but they’re more commonly grown as trailing plants in hanging baskets.
 
Their aerial roots are thinner and less insistent about attaching.
 
Pothos vines also tend to have longer internodes, giving them a more spaced-out look.
 
If your plant is spilling over a pot and barely sticking to anything, it’s likely a pothos.
 

So, How to Tell Philodendron from Pothos?

You can tell philodendron from pothos by checking leaf shape, stem grooves, leaf texture, and growth habit.
 
Philodendron leaves have a deep heart shape with a strong dip, thin matte texture, round slender stems, and aggressive climbing roots.
 
Pothos leaves are more elongated with a shallow dip, waxy feel, petiole grooves, and a natural trailing habit.
 
Once you know these pointers, telling philodendron from pothos becomes second nature.
 
Next time you’re at a plant shop or admiring a friend’s green friend, you’ll be the expert on how to tell philodendron from pothos.
 
Happy planting.