Philodendron Lickety Split Vs Hope – The Definitive Guide To Choosing

ByRimon Chowdhury Updated on

Have you ever stood in the plant aisle, staring at two lush, green beauties with deeply split leaves, feeling utterly stumped? On the left, a tag says ‘Philodendron Lickety Split’. On the right, ‘Philodendron Hope’. They look almost identical, yet subtly different. You’re not alone in this—it’s one of the most common head-scratchers for houseplant lovers!

Don’t worry, my friend. I’ve spent years with my hands in the soil, and I’m here to be your guide. This isn’t just about telling two plants apart; it’s about understanding their unique personalities so you can choose the one that will truly thrive in your home and bring you joy.

In this complete philodendron lickety split vs hope guide, we’ll unravel the mystery. We’ll dive deep into their visual differences, explore their nearly identical care needs, troubleshoot common problems, and ultimately help you decide which leafy companion is the perfect match for your space and style.

First Impressions: A Visual Deep Dive to Tell Them Apart

At first glance, Lickety Split and Hope could be twins. Both boast large, dramatic, deeply lobed leaves that bring an instant jungle vibe to any room. But as any seasoned gardener knows, the devil is in the details. Let’s get our magnifying glasses out and spot the key differences.

The Telltale Leaves: Ruffles vs. Waves

The most immediate and reliable way to distinguish between these two is to look closely at the leaf edges and the depth of the splits (also called lobes or sinuses).

The Philodendron ‘Lickety Split’ tends to have leaves with more pronounced, frilly or ruffled edges. The splits often seem to cut deeper towards the center vein of the leaf, giving it a more jagged and intricate appearance. Think of it as having a bit more “wild hair.”

On the other hand, the Philodendron ‘Hope’ (which is technically a Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum, but often sold as a Philodendron) typically has leaves with smoother, wavier margins. The splits are still dramatic but can be slightly wider and less deep than those on a Lickety Split. Its overall look is a touch more orderly and symmetrical.

Growth Habits: Upright and Compact vs. Wide and Sprawling

How the plant grows over time is another major clue. This is where their long-term presence in your home really differs.

A mature ‘Hope’ Philodendron develops a thick, woody trunk and grows in a distinctly upright, tree-like fashion. It sends its leaves outward from this central stem, creating a wide, impressive canopy. It wants to be a statement piece, a mini-tree in your living room.

The ‘Lickety Split’ has a different ambition. It tends to have a more self-heading or clumping growth habit. Instead of forming a single, prominent trunk, it often grows wider and bushier, with stems that may lean outwards. It’s less of a tree and more of a dense, sprawling shrub, making it feel a bit more compact, especially when young.

A Quick Comparison Table

For those who love a quick summary, here are the key visual differences at a glance:

  • Leaf Edges: ‘Lickety Split’ has frillier, more ruffled edges. ‘Hope’ has smoother, wavier edges.
  • Leaf Lobes: ‘Lickety Split’ often has deeper, narrower splits. ‘Hope’ has slightly wider, less severe splits.
  • Growth Habit: ‘Lickety Split’ is bushier and more clumping. ‘Hope’ is more upright and tree-like, developing a trunk over time.

The Ultimate Philodendron Lickety Split vs Hope Care Guide

Here’s the fantastic news: despite their visual differences, their care is virtually identical! If you know how to care for one, you already know how to philodendron lickety split vs hope care for the other. Both are wonderfully resilient and perfect for gardeners who are moving beyond absolute beginner plants. This section is your complete philodendron lickety split vs hope care guide.

Let There Be Light (But Not Too Much!)

Both plants thrive in bright, indirect light. Think of the dappled sunlight on a jungle floor. An east-facing window that gets gentle morning sun is perfect. A spot a few feet back from a sunny south or west-facing window also works beautifully.

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Too little light will result in smaller leaves and a leggy, stretched-out appearance. Too much direct sun, however, will scorch their beautiful leaves, leaving yellow or brown patches. Listen to your plant—it will show you what it needs!

The Perfect Drink: Watering Best Practices

Overwatering is the number one enemy of these tropical beauties. They prefer their soil to dry out partially between waterings. A great rule of thumb is to check the top 2-3 inches of soil with your finger. If it feels dry, it’s time to water.

When you do water, do it thoroughly. Let water run all the way through the pot and out the drainage holes. This ensures the entire root ball gets a good drink. Then, be sure to dump out any excess water from the saucer. Letting the plant sit in water is a fast track to root rot.

Soil and Sustenance: A Recipe for Success

These plants need a potting mix that is chunky, airy, and well-draining. Standard potting soil is often too dense and can hold too much moisture. I recommend creating your own simple aroid mix:

  1. One part high-quality indoor potting mix
  2. One part perlite (for aeration)
  3. One part orchid bark (for chunkiness and drainage)

Feed your plant with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half-strength every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Hold off on fertilizing in the fall and winter when growth naturally slows down.

Humidity and Temperature: Creating a Tropical Paradise

Coming from tropical regions, both Lickety Split and Hope appreciate higher humidity levels (around 50-60% is ideal). While they can tolerate average household humidity, you’ll be rewarded with lusher growth if you boost it. You can easily do this by:

  • Grouping it with other plants.
  • Placing it on a pebble tray with water.
  • Using a small humidifier nearby.
  • Giving it a home in a naturally humid room like a bathroom (with enough light!).

They are happy in typical indoor temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C). Just be sure to keep them away from cold drafts from windows or doors.

Common Problems with Philodendron Lickety Split vs Hope (And How to Fix Them!)

Even the most attentive plant parent runs into issues. The key is not to panic! Here’s a look at some common problems with philodendron lickety split vs hope and simple, actionable solutions.

Yellowing Leaves: Decoding the Distress Signal

A yellow leaf can mean a few things, but the most common culprit is overwatering. Check the soil moisture first. If it’s soggy, let it dry out completely before watering again. Ensure your pot has excellent drainage.

It can also be a sign of a nutrient deficiency. If you haven’t fertilized in a while, it might be time for a gentle feeding. Lastly, don’t forget that it’s natural for the oldest, lowest leaves to yellow and die off as the plant matures.

Pesky Pests: Who to Watch For

These plants are quite pest-resistant, but they can occasionally attract common houseplant pests like spider mites, mealybugs, or scale. Inspect your plant regularly, especially the undersides of leaves.

If you spot any unwanted guests, isolate the plant and treat it with a gentle, eco-friendly philodendron lickety split vs hope solution like insecticidal soap or neem oil. Often, a good wipe-down with a damp cloth is enough to handle a minor infestation.

Drooping or Wilting: Thirsty or Drowning?

Drooping leaves can be confusing because they can signal both underwatering and overwatering. How to tell the difference? Use your finger! If the soil is bone dry and the leaves are limp, your plant is thirsty. Give it a good drink, and it should perk up within a day.

If the soil is wet and the leaves are droopy (and perhaps yellowing), you’re likely dealing with root rot from too much water. In this case, you may need to repot the plant into fresh, dry soil, trimming away any black, mushy roots in the process.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Philodendron Care

Part of the joy of gardening is connecting with nature, and we can extend that connection by making conscious choices. Embracing sustainable philodendron lickety split vs hope practices is easier than you think and benefits both your plant and the planet.

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Peat-Free Potting Mixes

Many standard potting soils contain peat moss, which is harvested from sensitive peatland ecosystems. You can create a fantastic, eco-friendly philodendron lickety split vs hope soil mix using sustainable alternatives like coco coir, which is a byproduct of the coconut industry and provides similar aeration and moisture retention.

Natural Pest Control and Fertilizing

Instead of reaching for synthetic chemicals, stick to the natural methods we discussed earlier, like neem oil. For fertilizer, consider using organic options like worm castings or a fish emulsion. These feed the soil’s microbiome, creating a healthier environment for your plant’s roots in the long run.

So, Which One is Right For You? A Final Verdict

We’ve covered the looks, the care, and the potential pitfalls. Now for the final question in the philodendron lickety split vs hope debate: which one should you bring home?

Ultimately, the choice comes down to aesthetics and space.

  • Choose the Philodendron ‘Lickety Split’ if: You love a slightly wilder, more textured look. You prefer a plant that will grow into a dense, bushy mound and have limited vertical space.
  • Choose the Philodendron ‘Hope’ if: You appreciate a more classic, symmetrical leaf shape. You have the space for a plant that will grow tall and wide over time, eventually becoming a stunning, tree-like focal point.

Honestly, you can’t go wrong. Both offer immense rewards and are relatively forgiving. The best choice is simply the one that makes your heart skip a beat when you see it!

Frequently Asked Questions About Philodendron Lickety Split vs Hope

Are Philodendron ‘Lickety Split’ and ‘Hope’ toxic to pets?

Yes, both plants contain calcium oxalate crystals, which are toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. Chewing on the leaves can cause oral irritation, swelling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. It’s best to keep them out of reach of curious pets and children.

Why are my plant’s leaves not splitting?

This is a very common question! The signature splits, or fenestrations, develop as the plant matures. Young plants will have solid, heart-shaped leaves. To encourage splitting on a maturing plant, ensure it’s receiving plenty of bright, indirect light. Low light conditions can delay or prevent the leaves from splitting.

How fast do these plants grow?

In ideal conditions (good light, proper watering, and regular feeding), both Lickety Split and Hope are moderately fast growers. You can expect to see a new leaf unfurl every few weeks during the spring and summer growing season. Growth will slow down significantly in the winter.

Your Tropical Oasis Awaits

Navigating the world of houseplants can sometimes feel complex, but the ‘Lickety Split’ vs. ‘Hope’ mystery is one that’s easily solved. The key differences lie in the frilly vs. wavy leaves and the bushy vs. tree-like growth. Beyond that, they are two peas in a pod, sharing the same straightforward care routine.

Whichever leafy friend you choose, you’re not just adding a plant to your collection; you’re bringing in a living piece of art that will grow and change with you. Embrace the journey, enjoy the lush foliage, and don’t be afraid to get your hands a little dirty.

Happy gardening!

Rimon Chowdhury
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