Even big plant lovers can confuse the boa constrictor with the philodendron, and vice versa. Despite the different characteristics and needs, they are similar and have many of the same growth demands and habits.
For you to know exactly what to look for, to become easily distinguishable from each other, we have separated some important topics. The following information should help you identify all species with ease!
First of all, remember that both seedlings are toxic to dogs and cats. Be careful growing them near them.
taxonomy
This is the name given to the branch of science that is in charge of classifying groups of biological organisms. Here, plants are named and organized into genera and families. The boa constrictor and the philodendron belong to separate genera – the first to the Epipremnum and the second to philodendron. But they are part of the same family, the Araceae – and this is where the confusion begins.
Leaf shape and texture
Analyzing the leaves is the easiest way to detect both genera. Philodendrons are heart-shaped, thinner and softer in texture. Boa constrictors, on the other hand, display larger, thicker, waxy leaves.
Contrasts are especially noticeable in the area where the petiole connects to the base of the leaf. Whereas the base of a boa leaf is relatively straight, the base of a philodendron leaf is dramatically curved inwards.
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Aerial roots and petioles
Both have aerial roots that allow them to climb and climb surfaces. To be able to point out exactly which plant is in front of you, pay attention to this detail: the boa constrictor has only one large aerial root per node and the philodendron can have several smaller ones per node and tend to look wilder.
In the case of petioles, which are the small stems that connect the leaves to the main stems of the plant, the distinction is made by the growth habits of each. Boa constrictors have petioles receding towards the central stem and those of philodendrons are rounded and thinner.
Growth habit and young leaves
In a philodendron, when new leaves appear, they sprout from cataphylls – small foliage that surrounds and protects the new resident. These elements accompany it until it unfolds, when completing its role, they dry up and fall.
Boa constrictors do not have this characteristic. The new leaves simply mature and unfurl from the previous leaf.
Differences in development
When it comes to light, soil, water and temperature, the two exhibit very similar needs. In addition to being considered low maintenance houseplants.
although they tolerate low light, the boa constrictor does this more readily – the size of its leaves remains relatively unaffected by this factor – but its development is slower. Propagation by cuttings is easy and it withstands droughts.
On the other hand, philodendrons will get long legs faster and the leaves will be very small if they don’t get enough light.
There is one more name that may confuse your head!
A scandipsus pictusalso from the family Araceae, can be confused with the boa constrictor and the philodendron. It is characterized by the shimmering silver spots that cover all of its leaves – this pattern will make you quickly identify it.
*Via The Spruce