Caladium

Also known as: Angel's wings, Heart of Jesus, Elephant's ear

Caladium bicolor is a tuberous perennial grown for its striking, heart-shaped leaves that display a vibrant mix of green, white, pink, red, and burgundy. The foliage is papery thin with prominent veins, arising directly from the underground tuber to form a dense, clump-like habit. It rarely flowers indoors, but when it does, the inflorescence is a small, inconspicuous spadix surrounded by a white spathe. Its main ornamental value lies in the dazzling leaf patterns, making it a popular choice for adding tropical color to shaded spots.

Scientific classification

Species: Caladium (Caladium bicolor)
Genus: Caladium
Family: Araceae

All parts are toxic if ingested, containing calcium oxalate crystals that cause intense burning and swelling of the mouth and throat.
Toxicity: Houseplants · Foliage
Plant type: 0.3 - 0.6 metres
Height: 0.3 - 0.6 metres
Spread: Deciduous
Foliage: Clump forming
Habit: Summer
Season of interest: Partial shade · Bright indirect light
Sunlight: 18 – 27 °C
Ideal temperature

Caladium pictures

Distribution of Caladium

Distribution map

Tropical South America (Brazil, Colombia, and surrounding countries)

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Culture

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Toxicity

All parts are toxic if ingested, containing calcium oxalate crystals that cause intense burning and swelling of the mouth and throat.

Quick identification of Caladium

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Caladium care guide

Keep soil evenly moist; reduce water during dormancy
Watering: Partial shade · Bright indirect light
Sunlight: 18 – 27 °C
Ideal temperature

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist; reduce water during dormancy

Fertilizing

Weekly with half-strength balanced fertilizer during active growth

Pruning

Remove yellowed or damaged leaves at the base to keep the plant tidy. Cut back all foliage to soil level after it dies back in autumn to prepare for dormancy.

Propagation

Propagate by dividing the tubers in early spring before new growth starts. Cut the tuber into sections, each containing at least one eye or bud, and plant them in moist potting mix at 18–21°C. Alternatively, bulbs (offsets) can be separated and potted up individually.

Growing

Grow Caladium bicolor in rich, well-drained soil that is kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. Provide bright, indirect light or partial shade; direct sunlight will scorch the leaves. Maintain high humidity and temperatures above 20°C during the growing season. Water regularly, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings in winter when the plant goes dormant. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks during active growth. Tubers can be lifted and stored dry at 10–15°C over winter in cooler climates.

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Common pests and diseases

Diseases

Susceptible to root rot if overwatered, especially in poorly draining soil. Leaf spot diseases can occur in humid conditions with poor air circulation.