The McColley Philodendron lends beauty to rooms with its show-stopping leaves. Starting out red-orange, its foliage deepens to shiny green—a real head-turner! Even better, this tropical plant flourishes with minimum care. It thrives in low light, so you can dot it around your home without worry. Discover how to keep your McColley looking lively with simple tricks. Keep reading to unlock the secrets of this plant’s success.
Key Takeaway
- It puts on a vibrant color display as leaves transition from reddish-orange to lush green over time.
- This tropical beauty flourishes in low light conditions, perfect for window sills or other indoor areas that don’t see much direct sunlight.
- With regular watering in well-draining soil, the McColley Philodendron remains healthy and happy.
Overview of the McColley Philodendron
The McColley Philodendron loves to shine! Its waxy leaves start out bright orange-red. Over time, they shape-shift to a rich green—so cool to watch. Unlike other types that trail on the ground, the McColley grows straight up. This means it fits perfectly on shelves and desks without spreading everywhere [1].
You won’t find an easier plant to care for. Give it water when the soil feels dry. Place it somewhere with not too much light, not too little. That’s all the McColley asks of you. Its low needs let it brighten any place like the kitchen or living room. And since it behaves well on its own, you have more free time!
The McColley adds lively color no matter the season. It’ll keep cheering up your home year after year. So start your plant collection with this wonderful philodendron. Its sparkling leaves are sure to catch your eye each and every day!
Your Eye-Catching Philodendron Loves Bright Spots
The McColley Philodendron feels right at home in zones 10 and 11. It likes warm, humid places best. But this plant can adjust to lower light, too.
While it will survive in dim areas, the McColley truly shines in bright, indirect light. This sort of light helps it grow fast and shows off its leaves’ awesome colors.
To make your McColley very happy, think about:
- Location – Put it near a window with sunlight filtered through the glass. Direct sun could burn the leaves.
- Humidity – Stick your finger in the soil. If it’s dry, the air is probably too dry. You can spray the leaves with water or use a humidity tray.
- Temperature – Between 65°F and 80°F is just right. Cold or drafts could slow its growth.
Give your McColley these ideal conditions and you’ll be amazed! It will look super healthy with beautiful foliage. All that care will really pay off with this stunning plant.
Grow Your Own McColley Philodendron
Have you fallen in love with your McColley Philodendron? Now you can make new plants to share! The best time is spring or early summer when the weather is warm.
First, pick a stem with a leaf at the end. Cut it below a leaf using clean scissors. This helps it grow roots more easily [2].
Mix coco coir, perlite and peat moss in a pot. This loose soil drains well. Push the stem about an inch into the soil so the leaf sticks up.
Now water it lightly so the soil stays moist. Too much water can make it sick! Put a bag over the pot to keep humidity high. Find a spot with bright light but no direct sun.
Soon you’ll see tiny white roots! Once they’re a few inches long, your new plant can live in its own pot. it feels great seeing new growth from something you made yourself. Plant sharing with friends is super fun too! Give propagating a try – your McColley will be so proud!
The Perfect Soil for Your McColley Philodendron
To keep your McColley plant happy, it needs just the right soil. The dirt should dry out some between waterings but never get too soggy. That’s why you need coco coir, perlite and peat moss.
Coco coir holds water well. Perlite and peat moss add air to the soil. Roots need water AND air to breathe! These three ingredients work great together.
To make your own soil:
- Mix one part coco coir, one part perlite and one part peat moss.
- Stir it all up until everything is blended smoothly.
The finished soil should look and feel light and fluffy. This loose mixture lets water and air reach the roots just right.
With the proper soil care, your McColley’s roots can grow large and strong. This allows the plant to take up nutrients and flourish. You’ll be rewarded with big, beautiful leaves for seasons to come. So get mixing – your McColley will love its new home!
Giving Your McColley Philodendron a Drink
Watering your McColley correctly is key to its happiness. The soil should dry out before each watering. Check by touching the top inch—dry is best.
About every 1-2 weeks is usually right, depending on how warm and humid it is at your home. When it’s time to water, pour until water comes out the drainage holes. This ensures the roots get soaked.
The pot needs holes on the bottom for excess water to escape. If it sits in water, the roots could rot. Drainage is important!
Keep an eye on the moisture and follow this routine. With regular drinks and dry spells between, your McColley’s leaves will stay healthy and lush. Proper watering keeps it looking great for a long time.
If you need any other plant care tips, let me know! I’m always here to help brighten things up with my indoor green thumb knowledge.
Fertilizer Feeds Your McColley Philodendron
In the spring and summer, your McColley loves an occasional meal. Fertilizer provides nutrients to boost new growth and foliage color.
Look for an all-purpose formula where the first three numbers are equal, like 10-10-10. Be sure to dilute it as instructed on the package.
Every 4 to 6 weeks during active growing seasons, feed your plant. Water in the fertilizer so it soak into the soil below the leaves. Direct contact with leaves could burn them.
In fall and winter, your McColley grows slower. Take a break from extra nutrients which might not help then.
Follow these tips to keep your plant energized through warmer months! Thriving growth means even more vibrant leaves for you to admire indoors. Just be sure not to overdo the feedings – moderation is key.
Let me know if any other plant care questions come up. Happy to help your green friend stay green!
Keep Your McColley Free from Creepy-Crawlers
Like all houseplants, your McColley can attract unwanted bugs. Checking its leaves regularly is important. Look closely for spider mites, aphids or fuzzy mealybugs. They might hide on the undersides.
Good air flow helps deter pests from visiting. Check the base of plants too. If you spot crawly friends, act fast.
Spray them away with insecticidal soap or neem oil. These are less harsh than some chemicals. Look for active ingredients like azadirachtin.
Some other tips – make sure your plant has enough light and isn’t squished with others. This keeps it healthy and hard for bugs to bother.
Stay alert for any signs of trouble. Nip problems early before they spread. With a little extra love and care, your McColley can avoid the creepy-crawlers! Let me know if any other questions come up.
Your McColley Philodendron Can Grow Big and Tall!
Indoors, these plants can reach 2 to 3 feet high over time. They grow upright instead of spreading out. This makes them great for small areas.
If your McColley gets too big for its spot, some pruning can help. Cut some stem pieces to encourage a bushier look. This also keeps it neat.
When roots start to fill the pot, it’s time for a new home! Repotting to a larger container gives roots room to grow some more. The plant will stay healthy.
With the right care, your McColley can be a stunning centerpiece without taking over the whole room. Its tall, straight shape adds beauty no matter where you put it. Enjoy watching it grow bigger and greener for many years!
Brightening Up Your McColley Philodendron
McColley plants handle low light well. That’s why they’re great for homes and offices. But they really love some sun indirect sun.
Put your McColley near a window with sunlight coming through the glass. Direct rays could burn holes in the leaves. Watch how bright its leaves stay over time.
If colors start looking dull, it may need brighter light. Try moving it to a sunnier window area and see if that perks it up.
Giving your McColley the right light lets it show off its best self. You’ll be amazed by how radiant those leaves can glow! I’m sure you’ll both enjoy the brilliance.
With a little trial and error of spot placement, you’ll find just the right environment. Keep checking in on how happy it looks. Let me know if you have any other questions!
Pet Safety
It’s important to know that your McColley plant is unsafe if eaten. The crystals inside could upset tummies and cause other troubles. Kids and pets especially need protection.
Hang your plant on high shelves or use a hanging pot. This puts leaves out of reach of little mouths and paws. Keep it far from areas they play or rest.
Be sure to talk to children and pet owners. Explain not to nibble or chew on any houseplants. Point out which ones in your home could cause harm.
Keeping the McColley away from curious ones only takes a little planning. That way everyone can feel safe while still enjoying its beautiful looks. Let me know if any other plant safety questions come up!
FAQ
How do I care for my McColley’s Finale Philodendron?
McColley’s Finale Philodendron, also known as Philodendron erubescens ‘McColley’s Finale’, is a low maintenance house plant. It thrives in bright indirect light but can tolerate low light conditions. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Use a well-draining potting mix, ideally with some coco coir. This tropical plant doesn’t need much fuss to maintain its deep glossy, green leaves.
What’s the best way to ship plants like the McColley Philodendron?
When you order a live plant like the McColley Philodendron, sellers typically use specialized packaging to ensure safe delivery. Many online plant stores offer free shipping on orders over a certain amount. Look for retailers that provide a satisfaction guarantee, often around 30 days, to ensure your plant arrives healthy and thriving.
Can McColley’s Finale Philodendron be used in landscaping?
While primarily grown as house plants, McColley’s Finale Philodendron can be used in landscaping in tropical climates. They’re not typically used as landscape plants in most regions due to their sensitivity to cold. If you’re looking for outdoor tropical plants, you might consider alternatives like the Bird of Paradise, which is more suitable for outdoor settings in warm areas.
How does the McColley Philodendron compare to other Philodendron varieties?
The McColley Philodendron, or Philodendron ‘McColley’s Finale’, stands out with its glossy green leaves that develop a reddish tint. It’s often confused with the Philodendron Prince of Orange, but the McColley tends to have deeper, more consistent coloration. Like many philodendrons, it’s valued for its easy care and striking appearance.
What should I consider when buying a McColley’s Finale Philodendron?
When shopping for a McColley’s Finale Philodendron, compare prices across different sellers. Some might offer regular price discounts or sales. Consider factors like plant size, overall health, and shipping policies. Many sellers offer gift cards, which can be great for plant enthusiasts. Check if pickup is available, as it’s often cheaper than shipping for local buyers.
How can I display my McColley Philodendron at home?
To showcase your McColley Philodendron, consider using stylish plant stands. These not only elevate your plant for better visibility but also add a decorative touch to your space. Place the plant in an area with bright, indirect sunlight – near a window with filtered light is ideal. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
Conclusion
The McColley Philodendron is perfect for any home. It adds bright color with low effort care. Even starting your plant collection? This tropical beauty thrives with its tall upright shape. Give it the right light, water and nutrients, and it will impress for years. Best of all, the McColley handles low light well. So it works great anywhere indoors—offices, kitchens, living rooms and more. Its eye-catching leaves are sure to brighten up your space.
References
- https://www.thesill.com/products/philodendron-mccolleys-finale
- https://gardeningbrain.com/philodendron-mccolleys-finale/
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- https://knowngarden.com/philodendron-soil-recipe/