Houseplants have always been a popular choice among those who love to add a touch of greenery to their living space. They not only enhance the aesthetics of your home but also offer a wide range of benefits, such as improving air quality and reducing stress levels. One such houseplant that stands out for its impressive foliage is Philodendron mccolley’s finale. Its vibrant shades of green and yellow make it a favorite among plant enthusiasts. If you are someone who is eager to learn about growing and caring for this stunning plant, then you have come to the right place.
In this article, we will provide you with all the information you need to know about Philodendron mccolley’s finale. So, sit back, relax, and read on.
| Scientific Name | Philodendron “McColley’s Finale” |
| Common Name | Cherry Red,McColleys Finale, Philodendron McColley’s Finale Hybrid, Philodendron Mccolly’s Finale and Philodendron McColley’s Finale |
| Family | Araceae |
| Origin | Central American |
| Height | Height: 18 to 24 inches, Spread: 12 to 18 inches |
| Soil | Well drain soil |
| Water | When the soil dries deep two inches |
| Sunlight | Diffused bright light |
| Temperature | 718°C to 25°C (64-77°F). |
| Humidity | 50 to 80% |
| Toxic to Cats & Dogs | Yes |
| Hardiness zone | USDA Zones 4b-11 |
| Pests | Aphids, mealybugs, scale, spider mites |
| Diseases | Root rot |
Features of Philodendron Mccolley’s finale
One of the most unique features of Philodendron mccolley’s finale is its aerial roots. These roots grip the bark of trees, rocks, or soil, allowing the plant to grow up to 20 feet tall! The plant’s leaves change shape as it climbs higher, and they can grow larger than a dinner plate – a sight to behold.
Fossils from the Eocene period (about 30 million years ago) show Philodendrons growing when South America was still connected to Antarctica. The plant has survived centuries of changes in climate conditions, and it has adapted to living in the tropical rainforests.
How to care for Philodendron Mccolley’s finale
Caring Philodendron mccolley’s finale is relatively easy as long as the right environmental conditions are met. The plant requires bright, indirect light for 4-6 hours a day, and the soil should be well-draining. Regular watering is essential, but overwatering can cause root rot, which can damage the plant. A humid environment is also suitable for Philodendrons. These plants require a controlled environment that is free from pests and diseases, and a balanced fertilizer can enhance growth.
Philodendron Mccolley’s finale
Light requirement for mccolley’s finale philodendron
Place your indoor plants – near a window. These plants thrive in bright and indirect sunlight, and being near a window provides them with just the right amount of light and warmth they need. You can place them a little further away from the window, as long as they are still getting plenty of light.
It is also important to note that these plants may need a little extra care during the winter months when the days are shorter and the light is less intense. Additional lighting or a grow light can be added to supplement their light needs during this time.
Temperature requirements mccolley’s finale philodendron
The ideal temperature range for most plants is 18°C to 25°C (64-77°F). If the temperatures drop below this range, the plant may start to wilt and eventually die. Therefore, it is important to keep the room temperature within this range.
At night or during the winter, try to keep the plant above 10°C (50°F). This will help the plant to survive during the colder months. If you live in an area with a colder climate, it is best to bring the plant indoors once the temperatures start to drop below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. This will help to protect the plant from frost, chilly winds, and snowy winters that can kill it in its entirety.
Position for mccolley’s finale plant
Indoors, the McColley’s Finale plant is an excellent choice for those who are short on space but still want to enjoy the benefits of gardening. This plant is relatively small, reaching a maximum height of only six inches, making it the perfect plant for a windowsill or small table. Its dark green foliage and vibrant red flowers add a touch of color and nature to any indoor space.
Watering requirement for Philodendron Mccolley’s finale
To maintain a healthy Philodendron McColley’s Finale, inspect the plant on a weekly basis for signs of dryness. Water only when the top half of the soil has dried out, while avoiding watering if the soil still feels mostly wet. It is important to keep the soil slightly moist, bearing in mind that warmer weather requires more frequent watering, while colder temperatures require a reduction in the amount of water applied. Allow the topsoil to dry out before the next watering session. To determine if the plant needs watering, press your finger about an inch into the soil to check the level of moisture.
Humidity requirement for mccolleys finale philodendron
Tropical houseplants flourish with humidity levels at or above 50%. By maintaining the ideal humidity, up to 60 or 70%, you can enhance the leaves’ health.
To ensure the well-being of your plants, keep the humidity levels at 40% or higher. In hot and dry weather, misting the plant will generate some moisture around it.
Placing the plant among other greens is another simple way to keep the humidity levels favorable. This group arrangement of plants will create a more humid environment, benefiting them all.
Potting philodendron mccolleys finale
It is vital to choose the right pot for your Philodendron McColley’s Finale to ensure its growth and overall well-being.Opting for a pot with suitable drainage is crucial, as the plant is not favorable to be in flooded soil. Ceramic or terracotta pots with drainage holes are great as they aid in water drainage and provide proper ventilation to the roots.
Choosing the correct pot size is also important. You should pick a pot that is only slightly larger than the root ball to allow for growth without allowing the plant to become root-bound.
Bear in mind to switch to a larger pot as your plant grows.
Repotting of philodendron mccolleys finale
As for the Repotting Schedule, it’s recommended to examine the roots around Easter and transfer the plant to a larger container if they appear to be getting dense, this is because the roots will require sufficient space to thrive as the temperature outside increases.
The roots of the philodendron mccolley’s finale species can tend to become root-bound, hence it’s suggested to repot them once every two to three years, ensuring the new pot is bigger, in accordance with the growth of the plant.
Fertilizing philodendron mccolley
During the warmer months of spring and summer, it is recommended to feed the plant with a well-diluted balanced plant fertilizer. As the plant is not a heavy feeder, fertilizer use can be limited to the growing season.
To maintain the plant’s health and growth, a balanced water-soluble fertilizer can be used once a month. However, excessive use of fertilizer should be avoided as it can harm the roots and leaves. It is not advisable to fertilize the plant during the winter when temperatures are low and the plant is in a dormant state.
Perfect Soil for Mccolley’s Finale Philodendron
To achieve optimal growth, Philodendron plants require soil that is well-draining and not water-logged. It is recommended to use a potting mix that is airy and will not retain excess moisture. A standard potting mix may be used, but it is recommended to mix in 20% perlite to improve drainage. Ensuring that there is no excess water in the tray or saucer after watering is crucial in preventing root rot.
For more information on soil requirements for Philodendrons, refer to our guide on purchasing or creating your own mix. To meet Philodendron mccolley’s finale soil needs, aim for a mix of sphagnum peat moss or a combination of perlite and peat with a pH level ranging from 6.1 to 7.5.
Pruning philo mccolley’s finale
Maintaining the appearance and size of Philodendron McColley’s Finale climbing plant often requires pruning. Removing withered, yellowed, or deceased leaves during the pruning process can help maintain a tidy appearance.
Although pruning may not be necessary regularly, since the plant grows quickly, older leaves around the base can be clipped for aesthetic improvement. Ensuring the good health of the plant involves getting rid of any sick or dead leaves which can be identified through changes in color from brown to yellow. If the Philodendron McColley’s Finale grows vertically, more leaf maintenance may be necessary.
Propagation of philodendron mccolley’s finale
Philodendron McColley’s Finale can be propagated through stem cuttings, air layering, seeds, or division. The simplest method is stem cuttings, where you can follow these steps:
Another method is air layering, which requires the following steps:
Propagation through division is an option when the plant has already matured. To do this, you must:
Lastly, high-quality seeds can also be used for propagation. Here are the steps:
Is philodendron mccolley’s finale Toxic to Pets?
Philodendron McColley’s Finale is considered toxic as its consumption can harm both humans and animals. The plant contains calcium oxalate crystals which can negatively impact the digestive system. For this reason, it’s recommended to keep the plant away from cats, dogs and birds.Swallowing a leaf from Philodendron McColley’s Finale can lead to several symptoms including nausea, vomiting, swelling in the throat, and skin irritations. Additionally, the contact of eyes with the plant can cause pain.
Common Issues with philodendron mccolley’s finale
Growing a Philodendron McColley’s Finale can present challenges such as pests and wilting leaves. Here are ways to deal with these problems.
Diseases
Excess moisture can cause disease manifestation in the plants such as blight and bacterial leaf spots and brown spots. To prevent blight from spreading, remove affected leaves and areas. You can also add wood chips around the soil to prevent fungus spores from thriving on the plant.
Drooping/ Wilting Leaves
A common sign of an incorrect watering routine is wilting or drooping leaves. Overwatering or underwatering can cause this condition, which over time can hamper the life of the plant and make it look limp and lifeless. Other causes for wilting are excessive heat, low humidity, and fertilizer burn. Deal with each of these issues according to the plant’s requirements as mentioned in this article’s care section.
Leaves Turning Yellow
If the leaves of your Philodendron McColley’s Finale is turning yellow, checking the moisture level is crucial. The plant can get into a stress condition with excess moisture as well as when it is dry. Poor lighting can also make the leaves go yellow. Make sure the plant gets medium light and not placed in dingy corners without much of it.
Pest Infestations
Pests such as spider mites, aphids, gnats, and mealybugs can cause immense damage to the plant by sucking out the plant sap, leaving it limp and lifeless. Prevention is the best way to tackle this issue. Mist the plant often and wipe the leaves clean with a soft cloth. Catching them early helps prevent their spread across the plant and treating the infected plant with a soapy insecticidal solution.
Why McColley’s Finale plant is not growing?
Your Philodendron McColley’s Finale will not grow if placed in an unfavorable environment. It reacts by not growing, wilting and turning brown or yellow. To prevent these, do the following:
Scale Back the Watering
Scale back the watering as soon as you sense that this could be an issue, unless of course if the soil is already bone dry.
Inspect the Roots
Lift the plant gently out of the soil and inspect its roots. Remove sections with dark splotches using sterile pruners. This is root rot caused by fungi and can spread to healthy sections of the roots.
Avoid Wetting Agents
Avoid potting soils with pre-mixed wetting agents as they keep the soil moist for a very long time. Use a mixture of perlite and peat instead.
Empty Saucers and Trays
Indoor plants often have trays to collect excess water that has drained from pots. Regularly empty such saucers and trays to ensure the soil stays dry at the base.
Move Them Close to a Window
Move Philodendron McColley’s Finale close to an east-facing window indoors to receive the gentle warmth of the morning sun, which helps the plant thrive even in low light conditions.
FAQ
What is the Philodendron Mccolley’s Finale plant and where is it commonly found?
The Philodendron Mccolley’s Finale plant is a species of Philodendron known for its vibrant green leaves and compact growth habit. It is commonly found in tropical regions, particularly in Central and South America.
What are the ideal growing conditions for the Philodendron Mccolley’s Finale plant?
The Philodendron Mccolley’s Finale plant thrives in warm and humid conditions. It prefers temperatures between 65°F and 85°F (18°C to 29°C) and high humidity levels. Indirect, bright light is ideal for its growth, making it suitable for locations near windows with filtered sunlight.
How often should I water my Philodendron Mccolley’s Finale plant?
The watering frequency for the Philodendron Mccolley’s Finale plant depends on various factors such as temperature, humidity, and moisture retention capacity of the soil. It is generally recommended to allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. This usually translates to watering once every 7 to 10 days.
What is the best soil type for the Philodendron Mccolley’s Finale plant?
The Philodendron Mccolley’s Finale plant thrives in well-draining soil that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and potting soil with good drainage properties is considered ideal for this plant.
How much sunlight does the Philodendron Mccolley’s Finale plant need?
It prefers bright, indirect light. It thrives in locations with filtered sunlight or partial shade. Direct sunlight should be avoided as it can scorch the leaves.
What type of fertilizer should I use for my Philodendron Mccolley’s Finale plant?
A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer with a ratio such as 20-20-20 or 10-10-10 is suitable for feeding the Philodendron Mccolley’s Finale plant. Dilute the fertilizer to half the recommended strength and apply it during the growing season (spring and summer) every 2 to 4 weeks.
How often should I fertilize my Philodendron Mccolley’s Finale plant?
Fertilizing should be done during the growing season, which is typically spring and summer. Apply a diluted, balanced fertilizer every 2 to 4 weeks to provide essential nutrients for its growth.
What are the common pests and diseases that affect the Philodendron Mccolley’s Finale plant?
Common pests that can affect the plant include spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. Diseases such as root rot and fungal infections can occur if the plant is overwatered or exposed to prolonged periods of high humidity.
How do I propagate my Philodendron Mccolley’s Finale plant?
The plants can be propagated through stem cuttings. Take a 4- to 6-inch stem cutting with a few leaves and place it in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the cutting in a warm and humid environment, and roots should develop within a few weeks.
Is the Philodendron Mccolley’s Finale plant toxic to pets?
Yes, it is toxic to pets. It contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause oral irritation, drooling, and difficulty swallowing if ingested by cats, dogs, or other pets. Keep the plant out of their reach to prevent any accidental ingestion.
How fast does the Philodendron Mccolley’s Finale plant grow?
It is known for its moderate growth rate. Under optimal conditions, it can grow several inches per year, filling out its compact form and producing new leaves regularly.
What is the average lifespan of the Philodendron Mccolley’s Finale plant?
With proper care, the plant can have a long lifespan. On average, it can live for several years, providing beauty and foliage in your indoor or outdoor space.
How do I prune my Philodendron Mccolley’s Finale plant?
Pruning this plant involves removing dead or yellowing leaves and trimming back any leggy or overgrown stems. Use clean, sharp pruning shears to make clean cuts just above a leaf node or joint.
What are some good companion plants for the Philodendron Mccolley’s Finale plant?
Some good companion plants for the Philodendron Mccolley’s Finale plant include other tropical foliage plants like Calathea, Pothos, and Snake Plant. These plants have similar light and humidity requirements and create a lush, green display when placed together.
Where can I purchase a Philodendron Mccolley’s Finale plant?”
You can purchase a Philodendron Mccolley’s Finale plant from various sources. Local plant nurseries, garden centers, and online plant retailers often carry this popular Philodendron variety. Check with your local plant suppliers or search online to find a reliable source for purchasing one.
When is the optimal time to propagate plants?
It’s best to do so during the period from early spring to early summer. This timeframe allows for the warmth of the summer season to be utilized by the plant to achieve healthy growth and shoot production. If you need to protect young saplings from the intense sun, you can create a DIY greenhouse effect by using a garden cloth or sheet as a barrier. This will provide warmth while shielding the young plants from direct sunlight.