Looking for a houseplant that makes a bold statement without needing constant attention? The Philodendron McColley’s Finale is a stunning red-leafed houseplant that might be your perfect match. Its fiery foliage brings a warm, tropical vibe to any room, and it’s surprisingly easy to care for. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to keep your plant thriving.
This Philodendron is a real showstopper. New leaves emerge in a brilliant coppery-red or orange-red color. As they mature, they gradually deepen to a dark, glossy green. The result is a beautiful plant with a mix of vibrant hues all at once. It has a self-heading growth habit, meaning it forms a neat, clumping mound rather than a long vine. This makes it ideal for tabletops or as a floor plant in a decorative pot.
Philodendron McColley’s Finale
This cultivar is known for its incredible color and manageable size. It’s a hybrid, carefully bred for its ornamental qualities and resilience. Unlike some finicky tropical plants, the McColley’s Finale is quite forgiving. It adapts well to typical indoor conditions, which is a big reason for its popularity. Let’s get into the specifics of how to care for this beautiful plant.
Ideal Light Conditions for Vibrant Color
Light is the most important factor for maintaining those stunning red leaves. The right amount encourages the best color.
* Bright, Indirect Light is Best: Place your plant near an east or west-facing window. A spot a few feet back from a south-facing window (with a sheer curtain) is also excellent.
* Avoid Direct Sun: Harsh afternoon sun can scorch the leaves, causing brown, crispy patches. If the light is too intense, the leaves may also fade.
* Low Light Tolerance: The plant will survive in lower light, but its growth will slow. More importantly, the new leaves will come in green, losing the signature red and orange tones. If you notice your plant losing its color, it likely needs more light.
Watering Your Plant Correctly
Overwatering is the fastest way to harm your Philodendron. These plants like their soil to partially dry out between drinks.
Here’s a simple method to check:
1. Stick your finger about an inch or two into the soil.
2. If the soil feels dry at that depth, it’s time to water.
3. Water thoroughly until you see it run out of the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot.
4. Empty the saucer underneath after a few minutes so the roots aren’t sitting in water.
In the warmer, brighter growing season (spring and summer), you’ll water more frequently. In fall and winter, when growth slows, you’ll water much less. Always check the soil first; don’t just water on a schedule.
Soil and Potting Needs
A well-draining potting mix is non-negotiable. Philodendron roots need oxygen and will rot in heavy, soggy soil.
A good mix is:
* A high-quality all-purpose potting soil.
* Amended with perlite and orchid bark for extra drainage.
You can buy an aroid mix or make your own with equal parts potting soil, perlite, and orchid bark. Make sure your pot has drainage holes. Repot your McColley’s Finale every 2-3 years, or when you see roots growing out of the bottom. Only go up one pot size (about 2 inches wider in diameter) when you repot.
Temperature and Humidity Preferences
As a tropical plant, it enjoys warmth and humidity. But it’s quite adaptable.
* Temperature: Keep it in a room between 65°F and 80°F (18°C – 27°C). Avoid placing it near cold drafts, air conditioning vents, or heating ducts.
* Humidity: Average home humidity (around 40-50%) is usually fine. However, if your air is very dry, the leaf tips may turn brown. You can increase humidity by grouping plants together, using a pebble tray with water, or running a small humidifier nearby. Misting the leaves occasionally can help, but it’s not a long-term solution.
Fertilizing for Healthy Growth
Feeding your plant gives it the nutrients it needs to produce those large, colorful leaves.
* Use a balanced, water-soluble houseplant fertilizer (like a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 formula).
* Dilute it to half the strength recommended on the bottle.
* Fertilize once a month during the spring and summer.
* Do not fertilize in the fall and winter when the plant is not actively growing.
Over-fertilizing can damage the roots, so less is more. If you’ve just repotted your plant into fresh soil, wait at least 4-6 months before you start fertilizing, as the new soil contains nutrients.
Pruning and General Maintenance
This plant doesn’t require heavy pruning. Its self-heading habit keeps it tidy. But a little maintenance goes a long way.
* Remove Old Leaves: Occasionally, an older, lower leaf may turn yellow and die off. This is a normal part of the plant’s growth. Simply snip it off at the base of the stem with clean scissors or pruning shears.
* Dust the Leaves: Large leaves collect dust, which blocks sunlight. Wipe them gently with a damp cloth every few weeks. This keeps the plant healthy and looking its best.
* Rotate the Pot: Give the pot a quarter turn every time you water. This ensures all sides of the plant get even light, promoting symmetrical growth.
Common Problems and Easy Solutions
Even easy plants can have issues. Here’s how to troubleshoot common problems.
Yellowing Leaves
This is often a sign of overwatering. Check the soil moisture immediately. If it’s very wet, let it dry out completely before watering again. Ensure the pot has proper drainage. Yellow leaves can also indicate a need for fertilizer, but check water first.
Brown Leaf Tips or Edges
This is usually caused by low humidity or underwatering. Increase humidity around the plant and check your watering routine. Make sure you’re watering thoroughly when you do water. Sometimes, a buildup of salts from fertilizer can cause this; you can flush the soil with water every few months.
Leggy Growth or Small Leaves
If the plant is stretching out or new leaves are small, it’s not getting enough light. Move it to a brighter location with indirect light. The color of new leaves will also improve with more light.
Pests
Philodendrons can sometimes attract common houseplant pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and scale. Inspect the undersides of leaves regularly. If you see pests, isolate the plant. Wipe leaves with a solution of mild soap and water, or use an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray.
How to Propagate Your Plant
Want to make more plants? Propagating a Philodendron McColley’s Finale is straightforward. The best method is division during repotting.
1. Gently remove the entire plant from its pot.
2. Carefully separate a section of the plant that has its own roots and at least a couple of leaves.
3. Use your fingers to tease the roots apart, or use a clean knife if necessary.
4. Plant the new division in its own pot with fresh, well-draining soil.
5. Water it lightly and care for it as usual.
You can also try stem cuttings, but because this plant grows in a clump, division is often simpler and more reliable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Philodendron McColley’s Finale toxic?
Yes, like all Philodendrons, it contains calcium oxalate crystals which are toxic to pets and humans if ingested. Keep it out of reach of curious cats, dogs, and children.
Why are the new leaves on my plant green instead of red?
Insufficient light is the most common cause. The red and orange pigments develop best with plenty of bright, indirect light. Try moving your plant to a brighter spot.
How big does this Philodendron get?
Indoors, it typically reaches about 2 to 3 feet in both height and width. It’s a compact, mounding plant perfect for indoor spaces.
Should I use a moss pole for support?
Since it’s a self-heading, clumping variety, it doesn’t climb like a vining Philodendron. It does not need a moss pole for support. The stems are sturdy and hold the leaves upright on their own.
How often should I repot my McColley’s Finale?
Every 2 to 3 years is usually sufficient. Repot in the spring, and only move to a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter. If you see roots growing out the drainage holes, it’s definitely time.
The Philodendron McColley’s Finale is a truly rewarding plant. Its dramatic foliage adds a splash of warm color to your home, and its easy-going nature makes it suitable for both new and experienced plant owners. By providing the right light, careful watering, and occasional feeding, you’ll enjoy its stunning display for years to come. Remember, the key to those incredible red leaves is bright, indirect light—so find it a sunny spot and watch it shine.