Philodendron Brasil vs pothos
Philodendron Brasil has heart-shaped leaves with green and yellow variegation. Golden pothos has waxier leaves with irregular yellow markings.
Side by side
| Philodendron Brasil | Golden pothos | |
|---|---|---|
| Identity | Philodendron hederaceum cultivar | Epipremnum aureum |
| Leaf shape | Heart-shaped with a pronounced notch | Oval to heart-shaped, often less symmetrical |
| Variegation | Green and yellow-green areas, often through the center | Irregular golden-yellow patches |
| Growth habit | A trailing or climbing vine | |
| Light | Bright, indirect light | Low light tolerant |
| Watering | Every 6 to 8 days (summer), every 11 to 17 days (winter) | |
| Pet safety | Toxic to cats and dogs | |
Which should you choose?
Philodendron Brasil
Choose Philodendron Brasil if you like heart-shaped leaves with contrasting green and yellow areas. Its variegation can vary between leaves. Give it indirect light and a place to trail or climb.
Golden pothos
Choose golden pothos if you prefer thicker, waxy leaves with scattered golden markings. It also trails or climbs. Avoid direct sun that scorches the leaves.
Check the plant label before choosing care. Similar common names can refer to different species.
More plant comparisons
Common questions
Is Philodendron Brasil a pothos?
No. Brasil is a cultivar of Philodendron hederaceum. Golden pothos is Epipremnum aureum, a species in another genus. Both belong to the arum family.
Can I identify them by the yellow pattern alone?
Use the pattern together with leaf shape and texture. Brasil often has a yellow-green area through the center, but its variegation is variable. A yellow patch by itself is not enough to identify the plant.
Are either of these vines safe for pets?
Philodendron Brasil is toxic to cats and dogs. Golden pothos is toxic to cats and dogs. Both contain irritating calcium oxalates, so keep the vines out of chewing reach.
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