Among indoor plants, Philodendron and Pothos are quite common ones. Their elegant look and low upkeep have made many houses and businesses favorites. Still, many people find it difficult to tell the two plants apart given their similar form. Though they are members of the Araceae family, their particulars are somewhat different. To assist you better know and care for these plants, we will go over the minute variations in many factors including plant form, growth patterns, maintenance needs, and decorative value.
Philodendron
Variations in shape
Their leaf form and texture define their look most significantly. There are many kinds and forms of Philodendron leaves. Common leaf forms are heart-shaped, sword-shaped, heavily lobed compounds leaves. Usually, Philodendron leaves are softer to the touch and thicker as well. Some variants are especially brilliant as their leaves have a waxy gloss. For instance, Philodendron ‘Imperial crimson’ has a distinctive color transition wherein crimson young leaves become dark green as they mature. Philodendrons also often have bigger, fuller leaves, which lends a more opulent visual impression.
Usually heart-shaped or almost heart-shaped, pothos have thinner, somewhat homogeneous leaves in form. Though there are also vivid variants, including Epipremnum aureum ‘Neon,’ which has brilliant yellow-green, and Epipremnum aureum ‘Marble Queen,’ which has creamy white markings, pothos normally have bright green leaves. Pothos’ leaves are smaller than those of Philodendrons and have a rough, harsh feel. While pothoss is mostly dominated by a consistent brilliant green tone and smooth leaves, the leaves of Philodendron have more varied forms and colors and most of them are velvety to the touch.
Variations in techniques for growth
Though both are vines, their growth differs. Growing in a range of forms, phodendrons are ground cover plants as well as climbing plants. While certain Philodendron species, including Philodendron hederaceum, spread out like ground cover, others climb tree trunks or supports. Philodendron grows steadily as well; as the plant ages, its leaves become bigger.
Mostly a vine-like plant, pothos grows hanging down from supports. It grows fast and has somewhat constant-sized leaves that seldom fluctuate. Its quick rate of expansion makes it appropriate for indoor hanging to provide a natural hanging scene.
Therefore, if you want a diversity of leaf forms and enjoy vine-like climbing plants, philodendron might be a better option; if you want to watch your plants swiftly growing, it’s a fantastic choice.
Different upkeep needs
Although both are quite low maintenance for plants, their needs vary somewhat even if they are generally simple. Regarding upkeep, Philodendron is quite flexible. Though it can also withstand lower light levels, it is rather flexible to light and grows really well in strong indirect light. Additionally drought-resistant, phodendron only has to be watered when the ground surface dries. Excessive watering may lead to root rot of Philodendron; so, care should be made not to bathe the plant roots in water for a long period during maintenance. Regarding temperature, Philodendron likes a warm surroundings; the ideal growing temperature falls between 18 and 24 degrees Celsius. Furthermore, Philodendron does not need excessive humidity; rather, keeping a modest humidity would help the leaves to be more healthy and lustrous.
The green radish requires fairly little upkeep as well. It can also live in low-light circumstances and adjusts to several light levels. Unlike Philodendron, however, the green radish’s development in a dim light environment will become sparse; the leaves will become smaller; and the color will get lighter. The green radish must be irrigated more often during maintenance to maintain the soil wet as it has great demand for water. Like Philodendron, too much water may also lead to root troubles; so, the appropriate water supply is very crucial. More suited to larger temperature variations than the phodendron, the green radish likes a warm atmosphere and the most appropriate development temperature is 15 to 30 degrees Celsius.
Thus, in terms of care, if you like lazy plants, do not want to water often and worry about light issues, then philodendron is a better option; and if you can provide somewhat more water and light, the green radish may grow more luxuriantly.
Pruning needs and a technique of reproduction
Although the precise operating techniques are somewhat different, reproduction and pruning also have certain parallels. Philodendron may be somewhat easily reproduced; the most often used techniques are air layering and cuttings. Philodendron’s quite strong stems make it often difficult to allow new roots develop throughout the reproductive phase. Furthermore, particularly for vine-type philodendron, trimming of this plant is very vital. Apart from regulating the plant’s length, pruning helps new branch development, thereby enhancing the plant’s luxuriance.
Green radish reproduces quicker and more simply. Cuttings via hydroponics or soil farming help to spread it. Just cut the piece with aerial roots and place it into the water; new roots will develop after a few weeks. Green radish may be somewhat easily pruned. Cutting off the overlong vines not only helps the plant to remain in a tidy form but also encourages the development of fresh leaves, therefore optimizing its compactness.
While the propagation pace of Pothos is quicker, which is appropriate for gardeners who want results fast, the propagation and pruning procedure of Philodendron may call for a bit more patience generally.
Purification of air: function
They are not only lovely ornamental plants but also really effective air cleaners. NASA lists these plants as among the ones that may efficiently eliminate dangerous airborne pollutants. Philodendron’s capacity for air purification is mostly evident in the absorption of toxic compounds such benzene and formaldehyde. Through its leaves, phodendron absorbs toxins in the air, changes them into benign components for plants, and generates clean oxygen.
Pothos has also really great air purifying capacity. Through plant photosynthesis, it may collect carbon dioxide, formaldehyde and other toxic gasses, then transform them into compounds the human body finds safe. Pothos is especially good in spaces with little air circulation, including offices or bedrooms.
Thus, from the standpoint of enhancing indoor air quality, Philodendron and Pothos are really valuable.
Application in home décor
Both of them are great options for interior design as they may provide the room freshness and natural attractiveness.
Particularly upright types like Red Emperor Philodendron, which are very appropriate for arranging in the corners of the living room or study to provide a visual emphasis, Philodendron is fit for corner greening. Growing over shelves or climbing columns, vine-type phlodendron creates a hanging green curtain.
Pothos fit well on the bookcase or beside the window. Its approach of vine development allows elegant lines to develop organically. Pothos grows rapidly, so it may rapidly create thick green, which is very appropriate for establishing a vibrant home environment.
Philodendron Leaves
Though their look is identical, their leaf form, growth technique, and maintenance needs allow one to clearly separate them. For people who like variation and low-maintenance plants, the different leaf forms and smooth feel of philodendron as well as its more forgiving maintenance needs make it a perfect option. And Pothos is preferred by those who want to rapidly increase the greenness of the area with its low care requirements and fast development rate. Any plant you find appealing will provide color and life to your house surroundings. Understanding their traits and requirements will help you to take better care of these plants and enable them to flourish in your surroundings.
Post time: 10-12-2024