Caladium bicolor
Caladium bicolor
Angel Wings
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Description
Caladium bicolor is a vibrant, tuberous aroid prized for its heart-shaped leaves splashed with pinks, reds, whites, and greens. A warm-season shade lover, it brings instant tropical color to beds, borders, and containers with minimal fuss.
Common Names
Angel WingsHeart of JesusFancy-leaved CaladiumCaladiumElephant Ear (ornamental caladium)
Context
nativeRegion
Tropical South America (notably Brazil and surrounding Amazonian regions); widely cultivated and naturalized in the tropics.
usdaZones
9–11 perennial; 3–8 grown as annual or houseplant (lift/store tubers in cold regions).
companionPlants
Coleus, Begonia, Impatiens, Ferns, Heuchera, Hosta
culturalUses
Bold ornamental foliage for shade gardens, containers, mass bedding, and public displays; leaves sometimes used in floral arrangements.
Care
Care Requirements
LightBright, indirect light to partial shade; morning sun is fine, avoid harsh midday rays that scorch leaves.
WateringKeep evenly moist during active growth; never waterlog. Allow the top 1–2 cm (about 1/2 inch) to dry slightly indoors. Reduce watering in dormancy.
SoilRich, airy, well-draining mix—peat/coir with pine bark and perlite; slightly acidic to neutral (pH ~5.5–6.5).
FertilizerLight feeder. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at planting or a diluted liquid feed every 2–3 weeks in the growing season; stop in dormancy.
HumidityPrefers 50–70%+; misting or a humidifier helps indoors. Ensure airflow to prevent leaf spot.
TemperatureWarmth loving: 70–85°F (21–29°C) by day; avoid below 60°F (16°C). Plant tubers when soil is >65°F (18°C).
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitTuberous, clumping herbaceous perennial with showy, heart-shaped leaves on upright petioles.
Mature SizeTypically 12–30 in tall and 12–24 in wide, depending on cultivar and conditions.
Growth RateFast grower in warm, humid weather.
BloomingOccasional small greenish-white spathes in warm months; usually insignificant and often removed to favor foliage.
DormancyDeciduous; foliage dies back in cool/short days. Store dry tubers in a warm, airy place until spring.
Propagation
MethodsTuber division, Seeds (advanced/slow), Tissue culture (commercial)
DifficultyEasy to moderate (easiest by tuber division).
Best SeasonSpring after last frost, when soil temperatures exceed 65°F (18°C).
Maintenance & Notes
PruningRemove yellowing or damaged leaves at the base; optionally remove blooms to conserve energy for foliage.
RepottingStart tubers shallow (about 1–2 in deep) each spring in fresh mix; repot or refresh medium annually for best vigor.
Pests & DiseasesWatch for spider mites, thrips, aphids, mealybugs. Prevent rot with sharp drainage; may get bacterial/fungal leaf spots and Pythium root rot. Avoid strong sun scorch.
ToxicityToxic if ingested (insoluble calcium oxalates); can irritate mouth/skin. Keep away from pets and children.
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