Hope Philodendron

Hope Philodendron (Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum 'Hope', still labelled Philodendron 'Hope' almost everywhere) is the plant to reach for when a bed needs to look lush in a hurry. It builds a self supporting clump about 1.5m tall and 1.8m wide, with deeply cut glossy leaves arching from a short central trunk, and it holds that shape with no frame or stake. Growth is fast in warm weather.

Why you'll love it

• Wide, not tall. At 1.8m across and 1.5m high it fills the middle layer of a garden, softening a fence line without blocking a view.
• It stands up by itself. This is a self heading philodendron, so there is no climbing, no totem and no tying in.
• Wind and humidity are no trouble. The leaves are tough enough for exposed courtyards and humid summers, where a lot of tropical foliage tears or spots.
• Fast, indoors or out. In a warm garden it reaches real presence inside two seasons, and a bright room suits it just as well.

Where it works best

Poolside planting. The bold leaves suit a pool surround, and the plant handles reflected heat and wind. Keep it a metre back from the edge so the mature spread stays clear of the coping.

Mass planting. Space plants 1.5m apart for a continuous lush bed. That is close enough for the leaves to overlap into one canopy and far enough that each clump keeps its shape.

Feature planting and pots. A single plant anchors a shaded corner, and a pot at least 500mm wide holds one comfortably on a courtyard or in a bright indoor spot.

Growing Hope Philodendron in Australia

Position and climate. Part shade to filtered light gives the largest, darkest leaves. This is a plant for tropical, subtropical and warm temperate gardens. It takes light frost once established, but hard frosting inland and cold southern gardens burn it, so use a movable pot there.

Soil. Rich and well drained, with compost worked through the bed. Keep 75mm of mulch clear of the trunk to hold the surface roots cool.

Water and feed. Deep soak twice a week through the first summer, then reduce as the roots go down. Feed a controlled release fertiliser in early spring and mid summer.

Pruning. Almost none required. Cut old yellowing leaves off at the base with secateurs rather than tearing them, and wear gloves, because the sap irritates skin.

What to expect when it arrives

It comes four ways: tube stock, 140mm in a pack of ten, 200mm in a pack of six, or a single 300mm plant. Tubes and 140mm plants are young, usually two or three leaves, and are the choice for a mass planting. A 300mm plant is already a clump and gives a bed presence on day one.

Large soft leaves can bruise or fold in transit, so a torn edge on arrival is cosmetic and grows out with the next flush. Expect new leaves within four to six weeks in warm weather. Delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95, under our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• Read our guide to designing a tropical garden that stays lush.
• Browse the wider tropical garden range.
• Compare other poolside plants.
• See what else thrives in partial shade.

Common questions

How far apart should I plant it?

One and a half metres apart for a mass planting. Each clump reaches about 1.8m wide, so that spacing lets the canopies meet and overlap while leaving room to get in and mulch.

Does it climb?

No. Unlike the vining philodendrons it is self heading, forming a short trunk and arching leaves. It needs no support and will not run up a wall or a tree.

Is it safe around cats and dogs?

No. Like all plants in the arum family the sap contains calcium oxalate crystals, which cause mouth irritation, drooling and vomiting if chewed. Site it out of reach of a pet that eats foliage.