Caladium humboldtii
Caladium humboldtii
Humboldt Caladium
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Description
Caladium humboldtii is a petite, charming caladium with deep green leaves splashed and speckled in white. It thrives in warm, humid, shaded spots and stays compact, making it perfect for windowsills, terrariums, and small containers. Expect lush foliage in the growing season and a brief rest when it goes dormant.
Common Names
Humboldt CaladiumMini CaladiumAngel Wings (species form)
Context
nativeRegion
Northern South America, Amazon Basin (e.g., Brazil, Colombia, Peru)
usdaZones
10–11 outdoors as a perennial; grown as a container plant or annual elsewhere
companionPlants
Fittonia, Pilea, Peperomia, Maranta, Ferns (e.g., Nephrolepis), Begonia
culturalUses
Ornamental foliage for shade gardens, terrariums, and indoor displays; valued for its striking variegation and compact habit.
Care
Care Requirements
LightBright, indirect light to dappled shade; avoid harsh midday sun.
WateringKeep evenly moist in active growth; let top 1–2 cm dry between waterings. Reduce greatly in dormancy.
SoilAiry, fast-draining aroid mix (peat/coir + bark + perlite/pumice), slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5).
FertilizerHalf-strength balanced feed every 2–4 weeks spring–summer; hold in dormancy.
HumidityHigh humidity 60–80% preferred; avoid dry air and cold drafts.
TemperatureWarm: 70–85°F (21–29°C) by day; avoid below 60°F (16°C).
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitTuberous, clumping, low groundcover; compact foliage plant
Mature Size6–10 in tall (15–25 cm), 12–18 in spread (30–45 cm)
Growth RateModerate to fast in warm, humid conditions
BloomingOccasional, inconspicuous greenish spathe/spadix in warm months; rare indoors
DormancyGoes dormant in cool/short-day periods; foliage dies back and tubers rest
Propagation
MethodsTuber division, Offset separation, Seed (uncommon)
DifficultyEasy to moderate
Best SeasonLate winter to early spring, before active growth
Maintenance & Notes
PruningRemove yellowing leaves and spent spathes to tidy; avoid cutting healthy leaves during peak growth.
RepottingEvery 1–2 years in early spring; plant tubers 1–2 in (2.5–5 cm) deep in fresh mix.
Pests & DiseasesWatch for spider mites, thrips, and mealybugs; prevent rot with drainage and moderate watering; protect from sun scorch.
ToxicityToxic if ingested (calcium oxalate). Can irritate skin and mouth; keep from pets and children.
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