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⬅INDOOR PLANT CARE

Pothos (Epipremnum) vs Scindapsus vs Philodendron: Ultimate Comparison Guide

Written by Naya Prokopiou

Last updated: Nov 30, 2024 • 10 min read 


Confused about the differences between Pothos (Epipremnum), Scindapsus, and Philodendron plants? You're not alone! As some of the most popular trailing houseplants, these stunning vines share many similarities but have distinct characteristics that set them apart. In this comprehensive guide, I'll break down everything you need to know about these beautiful climbers.


New to plant parenthood? Check out my [Beginner's Guide to Indoor Plants: Essential Tips for Plant Parent Success] to get started!

Pothos (Epipremnum) vs Scindapsus vs Philodendron: Ultimate Comparison Guide

Confused about Pothos (Epipremnum), Scindapsus, and Philodendron differences? This comprehensive 2025 guide breaks down their unique characteristics, care requirements, and identifying features.

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Why These Plants Are Often Confused
Detailed Comparison
Care Requirement Differences
Identifying Features Quick Reference
Growth and Training Tips
Common Varieties Worth Noting
Plant Care with Naya Prokopiou
manjula pothos

Why These Plants Are Often Confused

new pothos leaf

These tropical beauties share several traits that make them easily mistakable:


  • Heart-shaped leaves

  • Trailing/climbing growth habits

  • Similar care requirements

  • Vigorous growth patterns

  • Easy propagation methods


However, understanding their differences will help you provide optimal care and build confidence in your plant identification skills.

Detailed Comparison

Leaf Characteristics

Pothos (Epipremnum):


The leaves of Pothos are typically larger and thicker than their look-alikes. Their most distinctive feature is the raised grooves or ridges along the leaf surface, creating a slightly textured appearance. The leaves also tend to have a waxy, glossy finish that helps distinguish them from Philodendrons.

Scindapsus:


Scindapsus leaves have a unique thickness and often display a silvery, satin-like sheen. Their leaves are generally more rigid and substantial compared to both Pothos and Philodendrons. The surface texture is smooth but often appears metallic, especially in varieties like Pictus and Treubii.

Philodendron:


Philodendron leaves, particularly on the Heartleaf variety, are typically thinner and more delicate than both Pothos and Scindapsus. They have a smooth, velvety texture and often display a slight rippling along the leaf edges. The Brasil variety shows distinctive lime green striping that's quite different from Pothos variegation patterns.

brazil philodendron

Growth Patterns

variegated epipremnum

Aerial Roots

  • Pothos: Thick, singular aerial roots at nodes

  • Scindapsus: Shorter, stubbier aerial roots

  • Philodendron: Multiple thin aerial roots per node


Leaf Emergence

  • Pothos: New leaves unfurl from existing leaf sheaths

  • Scindapsus: Similar to Pothos, but slower growth

  • Philodendron: New leaves emerge from cataphylls (protective sheaths)


Want to master the care for these beautiful trailers? Check out my detailed [Epipremnum (Pothos), Philodendron and Scindapsus Care: Complete Guide to Easy Trailing Plants]

Care Requirement Differences

While these plants share similar basic needs, there are subtle variations worth noting:


Light Requirements:

  • Pothos: Most adaptable, tolerates low light but thrives in bright indirect

  • Scindapsus: Needs slightly more light, especially silver varieties

  • Philodendron: Most shade-tolerant of the three


Watering Needs:

  • Pothos: Most drought-tolerant

  • Scindapsus: Likes to dry out between waterings

  • Philodendron: Prefers more consistent moisture


Humidity Preferences:

  • Pothos: Least demanding

  • Scindapsus: Appreciates higher humidity

  • Philodendron: Most humidity-loving


Looking to expand your plant collection? Explore my [Master the Most Common Houseplants: Essential Care Guide for Popular Indoor Plants]

healthy pothos plant

Identifying Features Quick Reference 

Pothos (Epipremnum):

  • Textured leaf surface

  • Thick, waxy leaves

  • Large single aerial roots

  • Prominent leaf joints

  • Various variegation patterns

Scindapsus:

  • Satin-like finish

  • Thick, rigid leaves

  • Metallic sheen

  • Compact growth

  • Silver variegation

Philodendron:

  • Thin, smooth leaves

  • Multiple aerial roots

  • Cataphylls present

  • Velvety texture

  • Heart-shaped leaves

Scindapsus

Growth and Training Tips

Each plant has unique growth characteristics that affect how you might display them:

Climbing Behavior:

  • Pothos: Strong climber, needs substantial support

  • Scindapsus: More moderate climbing ability

  • Philodendron: Natural climber, seeks attachment points

Training Methods:

  • Moss poles

  • Trellises

  • Wall mounting

  • Hanging baskets

  • Horizontal training

Once you master these easy-care plants, other types of [Philodendrons] will be a natural next step in your plant journey!

Common Varieties Worth Noting

Pothos (Epipremnum):

  • Golden (classic yellow variegation)

  • Marble Queen (heavy white variegation)

  • Neon (bright chartreuse)

  • N'Joy (precise white patterns)

Scindapsus:

  • Pictus Argyraeus (silver spots)

  • Treubii Moonlight (silvery sheen)

  • Exotica (large silver patches)

Popular Philodendrons:

  • Heartleaf (classic green)

  • Brasil (lime striping)

  • Micans (velvety copper)

  • Rio (cream variegation)

n'joy epipremnum

While these plants may look similar at first glance, each has unique characteristics that make them special. Understanding these differences not only helps with identification but also ensures you can provide the best care for each type.


Remember, whether you choose a Pothos, Scindapsus, or Philodendron, you're selecting from some of the most rewarding and adaptable houseplants available. They are perfect for all levels of plant parents, because they offer reliable growth and stunning displays with minimal fuss. 

Plant Care with Naya Prokopiou

Plant enthusiast Naya Prokopiou, with years of knowledge, shares houseplant care tips to help others create thriving indoor gardens, craft unique terrariums, and transform their spaces into living works of nature art.

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