Comparison \u00b7 side by side
Pothos vs. Philodendron
They look almost identical hanging from a bookshelf. Here’s the leaf-shape, aerial-root, and care difference — plus why most "pothos" sold are actually philodendron (or vice versa).
Side by side
| Trait | Pothos | Philodendron |
|---|---|---|
| Light | Bright indirect | Bright indirect |
| Water | Dry between waterings | Top 2" dry |
| Humidity | — | 40–60% |
| Pet safety | Toxic to pets | Toxic to pets |
What matters most
Pothos has thicker, waxier leaves with one aerial root per node. Philodendron leaves are softer with multiple aerial roots per node. Both are toxic to pets.