Scindapsus vs Pothos: Similarities, Differences, and Care Tips

Most homeowners love to grow plants in outdoor and indoor areas, especially one that requires minimal maintenance and have maximum visual appeal. Pothos and Scindapsus are two such low-maintenance houseplants that are loved by many homeowners. The interesting fact is that both look physically similar, but they are technically different in many aspects. The similarity of Pothos and Scindapsus in physical appearance tends to confuse many plant lovers who use the plant's name interchangeably. In this article we have tried to sort out the confusion and have compared both for better clarity.

Know About Scindapsus

Scindapsus not only looks similar to Pothos in shape and size, but also name as it is known as "Satin Pothos". Scindapsus is a tropical vine whose origin is from Southeast Asia and is loved by plant lovers due to its beautiful velvety, heart shaped leaves and silver variegation. It is available either as climbing with the use of a moss pole or a hanging long stem. The leaves can grow up to 15 inches across if proper care is taken while growing them. It has a variety of species such as Exotica, Silvery Ann, Silver Splash, Silver Lady, Tricolor, SIlver Hero, Mayari, Argyraeus, Jade satin, and Moonlight.

Fact: Scindapsus is the only plant of its genus to be grown as a houseplant.

Know About Pothos

Pothos has another name, "Devil's Ivy," whose origin is the Solomon Islands. Pothos is loved by homeowners for their gardens owing to its shiny heart-shaped leaves and yellow or white variegation. Pothos has multiple varieties, such as Golden Pothos, Marble Queen Pothos, Manjula Pothos, Cebu Blue Pothos, Neon Pothos and Jessenia Pothos.

What Are the Similarities Between Scindapsus and Pothos?

Both the houseplants have many physical similarities that often confuse gardeners. Let's have a look at the similarities.

Foliage

The foliage of Scindapsus and Pothos look similar, which often creates confusion between the two.

Appearance

Another similarity between the two is their physical appearance of heart-shaped leaves and light-colored patterned variegation on dark leaves.

Growing Habits

Both have similar growing habits. Both are vining plants with stems that often grow on trees naturally. However, they climb if support is given. In most of the homes, these houseplants get support in the form of a trellis or a moss pole.

Temperature and Amount of Light Required

Both Pothos and Scindapsus require bright indirect light, making them perfect for indoor growing. These plants bear low light conditions, so never expose them to direct sunlight to avoid scorching of leaves.

Humidity Requirement

Both the houseplants thrive in high humidity conditions but can survive for some time in low humidity conditions as well. It's essential to maintain the humidity around them, so you may use a humidifier or keep a water tray around them.

Watering Schedule

Water both plants once the top inch of soil gets dry; otherwise, chances of root rot increase. Maintain a gap between watering.

Fertilizing

Maintain regular fertilization at least once a month for both, with balanced liquid fertilizer reduced to half the strength for robust foliage growth. You may reduce fertilizing during winters when plants are inactive.

Propagation

Both the houseplants propagate in soil and water, both. However the fact is Scindapsus is easy and faster to root in soil in comparison to Pothos.

Shape of Leaf

Both have heart-shaped leaves.

Toxicity

Pothos and Scindapsus contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can irritate the mouth. It's advisable to keep them away from the reach of kids and pets.

Pruning

Pruning is necessary for both to maintain the shape and size of the plants. All you have to do is trim long stems, remove yellowing leaves, and pinch back the tip of the plant to robust growth.

What Are the Differences Between Scindapsus and Pothos?

Now we know the similarities between the two plants, it's time to know some differences. Let's have a look.