If you’ve ever stood in a plant nursery scratching your head, wondering whether that lush, trailing vine is a pothos, a philodendron, or a money plant, you’re not alone. These three houseplant celebrities look so similar that even seasoned plant parents can mix them up. But here at Gardenchee, we believe in clarity, foliage pride, and helping you avoid getting catfished by mislabeled greens.
In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between pothos, philodendron, and the mysteriously flexible “money plant.” By the end, you’ll be able to tell your heart-shaped leaves apart like a seasoned botanist. And yes, we’ve got a shopping surprise waiting at the end for true pothos lovers.
Meet the Contenders
| Plant | Scientific Name | Common Names | Native Region | Indoor Popularity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pothos | Epipremnum aureum | Devil’s Ivy, Golden Pothos | Southeast Asia | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Philodendron | Philodendron hederaceum | Heartleaf Philodendron | Central & South America | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Money Plant | Varies (often Epipremnum aureum in India) | Money Plant, Jade Plant (incorrectly) | India, China (cultural relevance) | ⭐⭐⭐ |
In Indian homes, the term “money plant” is often slapped onto anything vaguely leafy and green. But let’s be clear: most “money plants” sold in India are just pothos in disguise. Others use it to refer to Crassula ovata (a succulent) or even Pachira aquatica. Confusing, right?
Visual Differences
Let’s get up close and personal.
| Feature | Pothos | Philodendron | Money Plant |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leaf Shape | Broad, heart-shaped with a curve | More symmetrical, matte-finish heart-shaped | Same as pothos if it’s just rebranded pothos |
| Texture | Thick, waxy | Thin, soft | Varies |
| Growth Habit | Trails fast, aggressive climber | Trails but bushier initially | Pothos-like |
| Aerial Roots | Multiple per node | Usually one per node | Same as pothos |
Quick tip: If the leaf feels thick and rubbery, it’s likely a pothos. If it feels soft and delicate, say hello to a philodendron.
Care & Maintenance
| Factor | Pothos | Philodendron | Money Plant |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light | Low to bright indirect | Prefers filtered light | Similar |
| Water | Drought-tolerant | More sensitive to overwatering | Same as pothos |
| Humidity | Handles dry air | Loves humidity | Similar |
| Fertilizer | Monthly, in the growing season | Monthly | Same |
Plant Parent Tip: Don’t be a helicopter plant mom. Overwatering is the #1 killer here. All three prefer to dry out a bit between watering.
Growth Speed & Propagation
Pothos is the hare in this race. It can shoot out new vines in no time, especially if rooted in water. Just snip below a node, pop it in a jar, and you’ll see roots sprouting in a week.
Philodendrons are slightly slower but no less charming. Their propagation is similar, but roots take a bit longer to establish.
Money plants? If it’s just pothos, expect pothos speed. If it’s something else (like a succulent), it’s a whole different propagation game.
Feng Shui, Vastu, and Symbolism
- Pothos: Tied to prosperity, abundance, and air purification. Great for living rooms.
- Philodendron: Symbol of love and emotional healing. Perfect for bedrooms.
- Money Plant: In Indian tradition, placing a money plant near the entrance or southeast corner is believed to bring wealth. But again, it’s often just pothos!
The magic isn’t in the name but in the placement and intent.
The Confusion: Retail Lies & Leafy Myths
Many nurseries and online sellers market pothos as money plants to ride the Feng Shui/Vastu popularity wave. This not only confuses buyers but also leads to improper care because people assume they’re buying something entirely different.
Let’s bust some myths:
- Myth: Money plant and pothos are two different species.
Truth: In India, they’re usually the same. - Myth: Philodendrons are just another pothos variety.
Truth: They’re from a totally different genus.
Always check the scientific name if you can. Or just ask us. We love plant detective work.
Shop Smart: Our Certified “Not a Money Plant” Pothos Collection
Avoid the mix-ups. Gardenchee’s exclusive pothos bundles come with:
- Verified Epipremnum aureum specimens
- Styling kits (macramé hangers, ceramic pots)
- Decorative moss poles
[Shop Verified Pothos Only]
Because when you want a pothos, you shouldn’t end up with a jade plant.
FAQs
Q1: Is money plant the same as pothos?
A: In most Indian nurseries, yes. They’re usually selling Epipremnum aureum as a money plant.
Q2: How do I tell pothos and philodendron apart?
A: Look at leaf thickness and aerial roots. Pothos is waxy with multiple roots. Philodendron is softer and has fewer roots.
Q3: Are these plants safe for pets?
A: Unfortunately, no. All three are mildly toxic if ingested. Keep out of reach of curious paws.
Q4: Can I grow them in water?
A: Absolutely. Pothos and philodendron can thrive in jars for months. Just refresh the water weekly.
Final Words
You came for answers, and now you’re armed with the power of plant wisdom. No more falling for mislabeled “money plants” or confusing your vines. Whether you go for the bold pothos, the elegant philodendron, or the mystically-named money plant, make sure you know what you’re bringing home.
And when in doubt, get yourself a verified pothos from Gardenchee.
Shop Smart. Style Bold. Gardenchee Green.