While both of these velvet-leaf philodendrons may look similar at first glance, there are a couple of distinct differences that will help you tell them apart. First, the leaves of the philodendron micans are much smaller and thinner than the leaves of the philodendron melanochrysum—which can reach up to 24 inches long! Second, the philodendron micans has a burgundy undertone to its leaves, while the philodendron melanochrysum is dark green with yellow or ‘gold’ veining.