Philodendron bipinnatifidum ‘Little Hope’ is a beautiful tropical houseplant admired for its deeply lobed, glossy green leaves and compact, bushy growth habit. A smaller-growing selection of the classic Tree Philodendron, ‘Little Hope’ brings all the lush, architectural appeal of its larger relatives without requiring quite as much space. Its dense foliage and naturally rounded shape make it a fantastic statement plant for shelves, plant stands and bright corners.
Scientific Name
Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum ‘Little Hope’ (formerly Philodendron bipinnatifidum ‘Little Hope’)
Common Name(s)
Little Hope Philodendron, Tree Philodendron, Split-Leaf Philodendron
Origin
A cultivated selection associated with Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum, a species native to tropical and subtropical regions of South America, particularly Brazil, Bolivia, Paraguay and Argentina.
Light
Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate moderate light levels. Some gentle morning or evening sunlight is beneficial, although prolonged strong midday sun can scorch the foliage. Good light will encourage compact growth and healthy leaf development.
Water
Water when the top few centimetres of soil have dried, then water thoroughly and allow excess water to drain away. Keep the soil lightly moist during active growth but avoid waterlogging. Reduce watering slightly during autumn and winter when growth slows.
Humidity
Prefers moderate to high humidity but generally adapts well to average household conditions. Higher humidity can help maintain healthy foliage and prevent crispy leaf edges. Keep away from radiators and other sources of hot, dry air.
Soil
Use a rich, airy and well-draining aroid mix. A combination of peat-free houseplant compost, orchid bark and perlite works well, allowing the roots to retain some moisture while maintaining good airflow.
Food
Feed every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced liquid houseplant fertiliser diluted to half strength. Reduce feeding during autumn and winter.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures between 18–27°C. Protect from cold draughts, sudden temperature changes and prolonged temperatures below 15°C.
Pet-safe
No. Like other members of the Araceae family, Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum contains calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation if ingested. Keep out of reach of pets and children.
Sprouts Top Tips
Give your ‘Little Hope’ plenty of bright, indirect light to maintain its compact, bushy shape. Rotate the pot occasionally to encourage even growth, and gently wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust and keep them looking their best.
Unlike climbing Philodendrons, this plant naturally develops a self-heading growth habit, so it doesn’t need a moss pole or climbing support.
Extras
‘Little Hope’ is a compact-growing selection that produces deeply divided leaves from a central growing point. As it matures, it develops a fuller, more architectural appearance, making it particularly attractive as a floor plant or tabletop statement piece.
Mature plants may occasionally produce flowers consisting of a spadix surrounded by a spathe, although it is primarily grown for its lush foliage.
Did You Know?
Despite being widely known as a Philodendron, this plant belongs to the genus Thaumatophyllum, which was separated from Philodendron following botanical research.
The name ‘Little Hope’ reflects its more compact growth habit compared with the much larger Tree Philodendron, which can develop enormous leaves and a substantial trunk-like stem in its natural habitat.
