Which is easier to care for, Pothos or Philodendron?

Pothos: You're a complete beginner or want a near-indestructible plant. Philodendron: You want more variety — there are hundreds of Philodendron species to collect

Plant Comparison

Pothos vs Philodendron

Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) and heartleaf Philodendron are so similar that they're often sold interchangeably in garden centres — but they are different plants with slightly different needs. Both make excellent beginner plants, but knowing which you have helps you care for it correctly.

Pothos

Epipremnum aureum

The ultimate beginner plant — tolerates low light, drought, and neglect. Pothos trails or climbs vigorously but is vulnerable to overwatering, mealybugs, and variegation loss in dim conditions.

Philodendron

Philodendron spp.

One of the most diverse houseplant genera with over 480 species. Philodendrons are fast growers but vulnerable to root rot, bacterial disease, and nutrient deficiencies.

Side-by-Side Comparison

CategoryPothosPhilodendron

💡 Light needs★Low to bright indirect — extremely adaptableMedium to bright indirect

💧 WateringEvery 7–14 days; very drought-tolerantEvery 7–14 days; similar tolerance

💦 HumidityAny humidity — very tolerant40–60% — similar tolerance

🌡️ Temperature15–30°C — handles cooler rooms16–29°C

📏 Growth rate★Very fast — can grow metres per yearFast — 30–60 cm per season

🍃 Leaf textureThick, waxy, slightly heart-shapedThinner, matte, true heart shape

🎯 Difficulty★Easiest houseplant — nearly indestructibleVery easy — great for beginners

🐛 Pest risk★Mealybugs, scale — relatively resistantMealybugs, spider mites, aphids

🌈 VarietyGolden, Marble Queen, Neon, N'Joy and more★400+ species — huge variety

💰 PriceVery affordable, widely availableVery affordable, widely available

Choose Pothos if…

✓You're a complete beginner or want a near-indestructible plant
✓You have low-light conditions — Pothos tolerates near-darkness
✓You want a fast-trailing plant for shelves or hanging baskets
✓You travel often and can't water on a regular schedule

Pothos Problem Guide →

Choose Philodendron if…

✓You want more variety — there are hundreds of Philodendron species to collect
✓You prefer slightly larger, more dramatic leaves
✓You want a plant that also works as a climber with a moss pole
✓You're interested in rare aroids — Philodendron has many exotic varieties

Philodendron Problem Guide →

What They Have in Common

•Both trail and climb — excellent for shelves, poles, or hanging baskets
•Both are toxic to pets and children
•Both thrive in similar potting mix and humidity conditions
•Both are fast-growing and rewarding for beginners

The Verdict

If you can only choose one, Pothos is the more forgiving and faster-growing option. But if you want a plant you can grow and expand into a collection, Philodendron's sheer variety makes it more exciting long-term.

🌿 Pothos

🩺 Problem Guide →🌿 Care Guide →

🌱 Philodendron

🩺 Problem Guide →🌿 Care Guide →