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Philodendrons are great plants for tropical effects in the
garden. Philodendron ‘Hope’ is one of the group known as
“self headers”. This means that ‘Hope’ does not scramble or
climb. In frost free areas ‘Hope’ will at all times look good. The tidy
growing habit of ‘Hope’ is one of its key benefits. It was chosen for its
dwarfness and compact growth in comparison to other self heading philodendrons. Once
established ‘Hope’ is trouble free and a no-nonsense easy care plant for
the gardens of today. |
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‘Hope’ can be grown in full sun but also in
partial to fully shaded areas. In tropical foliage gardens ‘Hope’ will be
a welcome addition. As a garden plant one could expect ‘Hope’ to grow to
1.5 metres in height and 1 metre in width in about five years. It could be kept to this
height and width with occasional pruning. As a garden plant ‘Hope’ can be
used in areas where other philodendrons have proved to be successful. As a pot plant ‘Hope’
is ideal for patios, balconies or terraces and steps. The pot needs to be fairly large
and watered regularly. As cut foliage the leaves of ‘Hope’ last extremely
well in water. |
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Philodendron ‘Hope’ was selected by
Mr. Norman Hickerson of Florida from a batch of Philodendron selloum x
hybrids. It was selected for its dwarf habit, compact growth and the way it formed a clump
with many heads. All philodendrons are natives of the tropics, mostly tropical America.
Young plants are imported in tissue culture from the breeder and are sold under licence.
Redlands Nursery holds the licence for Australia and New Zealand. |
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In the six years we have had Philodendron ‘Hope’
growing we have not seen any adverse effects from insect or fungus problems on the plants.
Regular fertilising in Spring, Summer and Autumn is necessary in soil with low fertility.
Mulching to conserve moisture is beneficial. |
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