Hawaiian Pothos vs Golden Pothos: Key Differences Explained

Disclosure: As Amazon Associates we earn from qualifying purchases. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no additional cost to you.

Please note that while we always strive to provide 100% up to date and accurate information, there is always the small possibility of error. Therefore, we advise conducting further research and due diligence before consuming any plants or exposing pets to anything mentioned on this site. Kindly refer to the full disclaimer for more details here.

Sharing is caring!

In the world of indoor plants, Pothos is a popular choice for its easy care and attractive appearance. Two variations of this plant that are often compared are Hawaiian Pothos and Golden Pothos. In this article, we will explore the similarities and differences between these two plants.

Hawaiian Pothos Overview

Hawaiian Pothos

As a popular houseplant, the Hawaiian Pothos showcases a unique appearance and adapts well to varied growing conditions. This section offers insights into the appearance, growing conditions, and advantages of the Hawaiian Pothos plant.

Appearance

The main difference in appearance between the Hawaiian Pothos and its close relative, the Golden Pothos, lies in the color and size of their leaves. The leaves of the Hawaiian Pothos are a blend of dark green, yellow, and white streaks, while having a more rounded shape and less sharp tips compared to the Golden Pothos. These leaves tend to be larger and the plant generally grows bigger and faster than the Golden Pothos due to their ability to absorb more sunlight.

Growing Conditions

Hawaiian Pothos adapts well to a variety of indoor conditions, although it does show some preferences when it comes to light and temperature. In contrast to the Golden Pothos, Hawaiian Pothos favors brighter light which helps it thrive and grow. Furthermore, this plant variety is low-maintenance and drought-tolerant, making it a great option for novice or busy gardeners.

Benefits

In addition to being an attractive and easy-to-grow plant, the Hawaiian Pothos also brings several advantages to its surroundings. Its air-purifying qualities make it a desirable houseplant, as it helps remove toxins from the indoor air. Moreover, its large leaves create a lush and vibrant display in any space, adding natural beauty and a sense of calm to the environment.

Golden Pothos Overview

Golden Pothos 1

The Golden Pothos is a popular houseplant known for its low maintenance requirements and attractive appearance. In this section, we will explore the appearance, growing conditions, and benefits of this versatile plant.

Appearance

Golden Pothos is characterized by its dark green leaves that feature vivid and intense yellow hues in the form of spots or streaks. This eye-catching variegation gives the plant its “golden” name. The leaves are generally smaller than those of Hawaiian Pothos, making it a more compact plant.

Growing Conditions

Unlike the Hawaiian Pothos, which prefers brighter light, the Golden Pothos can thrive in low light conditions. However, if it receives stronger light, its yellow variegation may become more pronounced. The ideal temperature range for Golden Pothos is between 65 and 85℉. As a long trailing vine, it can adapt to a variety of settings, such as hanging baskets or climbing supports.

Benefits

Golden Pothos offers numerous benefits that make it a favorite among plant enthusiasts. Some of these benefits include:

  • Low maintenance: This hardy plant can handle a range of conditions and requires minimal care, making it an ideal choice for beginner gardeners.
  • Air purification: Golden Pothos has the ability to filter indoor air, removing harmful toxins and contributing to a healthier living environment.
  • Aesthetic appeal: The plant’s attractive variegation adds a touch of color and interest to any space, complementing a wide range of interior styles.

In conclusion, the Golden Pothos is a versatile, low-maintenance houseplant with a distinctive appearance and numerous benefits, making it a popular choice for indoor gardens.

Comparison

Aesthetic Differences

When distinguishing between Hawaiian and Golden Pothos, a noticeable difference is the color of their foliage and stems. The Golden Pothos showcases a vibrant, intense yellow hue, while Hawaiian Pothos features variegated dark green leaves with yellow and white streaks (source). Hawaiian Pothos leaves typically show cream-colored to light yellow streaks that extend from the midvein to the leaf’s edge, and the green in their leaves is lighter compared to the Golden Pothos (source).

Cultivation Requirements

Both Hawaiian and Golden Pothos prefer strong, indirect light to encourage healthier, darker green foliage development (source). The Hawaiian Pothos generally requires more space to grow due to its larger leaves and overall plant size compared to Golden Pothos (source).

Suitability for Indoors

Golden Pothos generally remains smaller when grown indoors, with its leaves rarely exceeding the size of a person’s hand. On the other hand, Hawaiian Pothos leaves can grow much larger under the same conditions, even larger than a person’s hand, given the right lighting (source). The ability of both varieties to thrive in indoor settings makes them popular choices as houseplants.

Helpful Video