Philodendron McColley's Finale Care

Vibrant red foliage with hints of chestnut is the standout feature of the Philodendron McColley’s Finale. This easy-care houseplant is rare, although it is becoming easier to find. If you want something unique or easy on the eyes and in terms of care, then this leafy beauty is for you. Learn all about Philodendron McColley’s Finale care and how to make this plant feel at home in your space.

Plant Details

The McColley’s Final is an upright or self-heading philodendron. The spade-shaped foliage emerges in a rosette formation from thick, dark red stems. New leaves are a dark brown to reddish hue with a glossy finish and settle into a medium to dark green color with age.

The McColley’s Finale is a hybrid, meaning it is not naturally found in nature but was discovered and cultivated in a greenhouse. Cora McColley observed the dark chestnut and red foliage, and after successfully reproducing the plant while maintaining the vibrant colors, she patented her findings. Cora’s late husband, Robert H. McColley, and his hybridization program were behind the Philodendron Florida Green and the Philodendron Florida Ghost.

Philodendron McColley’s Finale Light Needs

The McColley’s Finale needs bright, indirect sunlight. Philodendrons are somewhat adaptable, but plenty of light is necessary for the new leaves to have their signature red hue. Plants grown in low or medium light may grow much more slowly or become leggy and will not have vibrant foliage. Spin the pot a quarter turn every few weeks or each time you water so the plant receives even sunlight and does not lean towards the light.

How Often to Water Philodendrons

This leafy beauty has medium water needs and requires a drink when the top couple of inches of the soil are dry. Sticking your finger in the soil is the most dependable way to determine when to water the plant. The soil deeper in the pot can feel damp, but only water when the top two inches of soil are dry.

Check the soil every 5 to 10 days during the spring and summer, and only water when needed. Plants need less water in the fall and winter, so check the soil every 10 to 15 days. Overwatered plants will turn yellow starting at the leaf tip, while the entire leaf will have a hazy yellow appearance when the plant is underwatered.

Drench the soil until excess water drains through the container. It’s often easier to water the plant over a sink, and while you’re watering, rinse the foliage to remove dust.

Best Soil for Philodendron

Rich, well-draining soil is essential for McColley’s Finale. Organic content or slow-release fertilizer supports growth and helps the plant push out more spectacular leaves. While this plant has moderate water needs, it does not like wet feet. The ideal potting mix must let water drain so the roots do not become soggy and mushy. Most general potting mixes work well, and you can make it better by amending the soil with perlite.

Temperature for McColley’s Finale

This philodendron hybrid likes warm conditions, and most homes are at a comfortable temperature. Anything between 60° to 90° F is good for this plant. Expect more growth when the plant experiences warm temperatures. Relocate the plant to an outdoor space for the summer so it can bask in the warm weather and increased humidity, but keep it away from direct sunlight.

Philodendron McColley’s Finale Humidity Needs

Philodendron houseplants are adaptable and can handle average humidity, but set this plant up for success with increased humidity. Plants grown in average to above-average humidity thrive, and coupled with excellent Philodendron McColley’s Finale care, this plant will grow fast and large.

Dry foliage, particularly when the edges of the leaves turn brown and curl, indicates the humidity is too low. Move the plant to a naturally humid area or increase the moisture to help the plant thrive.

Philodendron McColley’s Finale Fertilizer

Feed the plant monthly during the growing season to keep the new foliage coming in. Use a fertilizer high in nitrogen since the McColley’s Finale is all about foliage, and increased nitrogen encourages leaf growth. Plant food with a ratio of 3-1-2 or 11-3-8 is a good choice. Use a water-soluble fertilizer or water the plant before feeding to protect the roots. Dormant plants do not need fertilizer.

Does Philodendron McColley’s Finale Bloom?

While the McColley’s Finale can bloom, it seldom does as a houseplant, and the flowers are insignificant. This philodendron is a foliage plant, so don’t be disappointed when it doesn’t bloom.

When to Repot McColley’s Finale

Repotting is an important part of Philodendron McColley’s Finale care. Plants that stay cramped in a too-small container will stop growing, so upgrade the pot and give the plant fresh soil every one to three years as needed.

McColley’s Finale Propagation

Create new plants via stem cuttings. Each cutting should be several inches long and have a couple of leaves, growth nodes, or aerial roots. Place the cutting in a container with soil in a spot with increased humidity that receives bright indirect sunlight. Keep the soil damp but never soggy for several weeks. Alternately, root the cutting in sphagnum moss before transplanting into a rich, well-draining potting mix.

Is Philodendron McColley’s Finale Pet Safe?

All Philodendrons, including the McColley’s Finale, are not pet-friendly. Eating any part of a Philodendron can irritate the mouth, tongue, and throat and cause vomiting. Be careful when bringing this plant into your home if you have pets or young children, for that matter.

Styling Tips

Upright philodendrons are more compact, making them a good option for areas with limited space. A full-grown McColley’s Finale will reach about 3 feet tall, but this will take time and excellent philodendron care. Place the McColley’s Finale on a tabletop and graduate to a plant stand as this beauty grows larger.