Philodendron Hope and Selloum are two popular varieties of these magnificent tropical plants, often sought by gardening enthusiasts for their unique aesthetic appeal. While they share many similarities, such as being members of the same family, there are some notable differences between them. Understanding these distinctions can be crucial when deciding which plant is better suited for your home or garden.
One key difference is the size of these two varieties. The Philodendron Hope is a smaller hybrid of the Selloum, reaching a maximum height of around four feet, while the Selloum can grow up to an impressive fifteen feet. Also, the Philodendron Hope tends to be less common than the Selloum, making it somewhat more challenging to find in nurseries and garden centers.
Moreover, their growth habits differ too. The Hope is a dwarf variety that does not climb like the Selloum, which can even dominate other vegetation if left unchecked. Both plants, however, thrive in bright, indirect light and require humidity to grow optimally.
Philodendron Hope
Growth and Characteristics
Philodendron Hope is a beautiful, tropical plant with large, showy leaves that create a feeling of a lush jungle. It is a smaller hybrid of the Philodendron Selloum, making it a more compact option, perfect for smaller spaces (source). The leaves of the Hope variety are deeply divided and have a lovely, ruffled green appearance with wavy edges (source).
This plant thrives in indirect sunlight, as it naturally grows beneath the canopy of taller trees in its native environment. The Philodendron Hope can reach a maximum growth height of approximately four feet, which is significantly smaller than the Selloum, which can grow up to fifteen feet tall (source).
Care and Maintenance
Taking care of Philodendron Hope involves providing it with the ideal light exposure, which is bright, indirect light. You can achieve this by placing your plant near a west- or south-facing window (source). Be cautious not to expose your Hope plant to direct sunlight, as this can damage its leaves.
In addition to ideal lighting conditions, Philodendron Hope requires a well-draining soil and consistent watering. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot. Maintain a balance between overwatering and underwatering, as this can keep your Hope plant healthy and thriving.
Finally, your Philodendron Hope may benefit from regular pruning to maintain its beautiful appearance and prevent it from becoming too leggy. Remove any yellow or brown leaves and trim the stems regularly to encourage bushier growth.
Philodendron Hope is an elegant and versatile houseplant that adds a touch of tropical charm to any space. With a little attention and effort, you can enjoy the lush beauty of this smaller Philodendron variety for years to come.
Philodendron Selloum
Growth and Characteristics
Philodendron Selloum is a popular tropical plant known for its large, distinctive leaves. Native to South America, it grows naturally in the rainforest, often under the canopy of taller trees. It is a relatively large plant, capable of reaching up to 15 feet in height when grown outdoors. The leaves are deeply lobed, with a glossy, dark green appearance.
This plant can become the focal point of any indoor or outdoor space due to its sheer size and eye-catching foliage. However, it’s important to remember that it requires ample space for optimal growth, and may not be the best choice for small areas.
Care and Maintenance
When it comes to caring for Philodendron Selloum, there are a few key aspects to consider. As a tropical plant, this species thrives in warm temperatures and humid conditions, a requirement similar to its natural habitat.
Here are some essential tips for maintaining a healthy Philodendron Selloum:
- Light: Provide indirect sunlight or bright, filtered light. Avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight, as this can scorch its leaves.
- Water: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not soggy. Over-watering can lead to root rot, while under-watering will cause the leaves to wilt.
- Humidity: Maintain a high humidity level around the plant. You can achieve this by misting the leaves, placing a tray of water nearby, or using a humidifier.
- Fertilizer: During the growing season (spring and summer), apply a balanced, liquid fertilizer every four to six weeks. Reduce fertilization during the dormant period (fall and winter).
- Pruning: Occasionally, you may need to remove dead leaves or stems to keep the plant looking tidy. Avoid excessive pruning, as this can negatively impact the plant’s growth.
- Repotting: Repot the plant every two to three years to ensure it has enough room for growth. Choose a well-draining soil mix that promotes healthy root development.
By following these care tips, your Philodendron Selloum should continue to flourish and provide a bold, lush statement in your space.
Comparing Hope and Selloum
Similarities
Both the Philodendron Hope and Selloum are popular houseplants known for their large, attractive leaves and tropical vibes. They both belong to the same Philodendron genus, making them closely related species. As their natural habitat is under the canopy of taller trees, they thrive in bright, indirect light and require similar care routines.
Differences
Although these plants share several traits, there are some significant differences between them:
- Size: The Hope Selloum is a smaller variety, with a maximum growth height of around four feet, while the Selloum can grow up to fifteen feet. This makes the Hope a more suitable option for indoor spaces with limited room.
- Leaf shape: Philodendron Selloum has deeply lobed leaves that can grow up to almost 5 feet, giving it a bold, tropical appearance. In contrast, the Hope variety has large, ruffled leaves with wavy edges, providing a slightly more delicate, layered look.
- Trunk and roots: The Philodendron Hope grows a tree-like trunk and aerial roots that extend towards the ground to anchor it as it grows. This feature is not as prominent in the Philodendron Selloum.
- Availability: The Philodendron Hope is less common than the Selloum, making it a bit more challenging to find at nurseries.
In summary, Philodendron Hope and Selloum share some similarities due to their close relation, but their differences in size, leaf shape, and availability make them distinct choices for houseplant enthusiasts.
Choosing the Right Philodendron
Considerations for Indoor Planting
When choosing between the Philodendron Hope and Selloum for indoor planting, consider their size and growth patterns. The Hope Selloum typically reaches a maximum height of around four feet, making it more suitable for smaller spaces. On the other hand, the Selloum can grow up to fifteen feet, requiring more space to accommodate its extensive growth.
Another consideration is the availability of these plants. The Hope Selloum tends to be more difficult to find than the Selloum, so you may need to search more for the former.
Both plants will thrive in bright, indirect light. You can place them near a west- or south-facing window to provide them with the optimal light exposure. Additionally, Philodendron Selloum performs well under medium lighting conditions and can survive in high lighting conditions with extra care. Rotate both plants periodically to ensure even growth on all sides.
Considerations for Outdoor Planting
For outdoor planting, it is crucial to consider the climate and environment. Both Hope and Selloum Philodendrons are tropical plants that flourish in mild climates with optimal humidity and indirect sunlight.
Keep in mind the size difference mentioned earlier, the Hope Selloum will be a better fit for smaller outdoor spaces, while the Selloum can be more suitable for larger landscapes.
When deciding between the Hope Selloum and Selloum, you can also consider the Philodendron Congo Rojo, a newer cultivar with purple, burgundy, and dark green foliage. Similar to other Philodendron varieties, the Congo Rojo thrives in warm environments.
In summary, when choosing between the Philodendron Hope and Selloum for indoor or outdoor planting, consider factors such as size, availability, light exposure, and climate. Your final choice should align with your specific needs and the environment in which the plant will be placed.
Common Issues and Solutions
Pest Control
Philodendron Hope and Selloum, like many other plants, can be susceptible to various pests, such as mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites. To prevent and control pests, follow these simple steps:
- Regularly inspect the plant for any signs of pests, such as small insects, webbing, or sticky residue.
- If you spot pests, remove them by gently wiping the leaves with a soft cloth or by using a gentle stream of water.
- For persistent infestations, apply an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray as per the product’s instructions.
- Ensure the plant is not overwatered or placed in a high-humidity environment, as these conditions can encourage pests.
Disease Prevention
Several common diseases affect Philodendron Hope and Selloum, such as root rot, which is primarily caused by overwatering or insufficient drainage. To prevent and treat diseases, adhere to the following practices:
- Ensure proper soil drainage by using a well-aerated mix, and avoid overwatering the plant.
- Keep the leaves dry, as wet leaves can lead to diseases like leaf spot. Water the plant at the base instead of overhead.
- Maintain a balanced environment by providing adequate airflow and keeping the temperature and humidity levels in check. Philodendron Selloum thrives at a temperature range of 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C) and with a relative humidity of 60% or more.
- Regularly inspect the plant for any signs of diseases, and if detected, promptly remove the affected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide according to the product’s instructions.
By addressing the common issues of pest control and disease prevention for your Philodendron Hope and Selloum, you can ensure a healthy and thriving plant.
Helpful Video
My name is Daniel Elrod, and I have been houseplant love ever since I was 17. I love how much joy they bring to any room in the home. I’ve always been amazed at how a few pots of flowing leaves can turn a drab and sterile office into an inviting place where people love to work at.
