Caladiums

Caladiums are stunning tropical plants prized for their vibrant, heart-shaped leaves that come in a spectacular variety of colors and patterns. Belonging to the Araceae family, these plants are native to South America, particularly Brazil, where they thrive in warm, humid environments. Often referred to as “Angel Wings” or “Elephant Ears” (not to be confused with Alocasia or Colocasia), Caladiums are grown primarily for their decorative foliage, which makes them a popular choice in landscape design, container gardening, and indoor decoration.

SKU: Caladiums Categories: Indoor, Outdoor Tags: Indoor, Indoor plant, Outdoor

Description
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Description

Caladium leaves are thin, delicate, and come in a breathtaking mix of green, white, pink, red, and cream, often with veined or mottled patterns. The leaves grow on long, slender stems that emerge from underground tubers. While the plant does produce small flowers, they are typically insignificant compared to the show-stopping foliage.

There are two main types:

Fancy-leaved Caladiums: Broad, heart-shaped leaves; prefer partial to full shade.
Strap-leaved Caladiums: Narrower, elongated leaves; more tolerant of sun and wind.

Popular varieties include ‘White Queen’, ‘Red Flash’, ‘Pink Symphony’, and ‘Florida Sweetheart’.

Growing Conditions and Care

Caladiums are generally grown as seasonal plants in cooler climates and perennials in tropical regions. They are best suited for warm, humid conditions and thrive both indoors and outdoors with the right care.

Light: Prefers partial to full shade. Some modern hybrids can tolerate more sun, but intense light may cause leaf scorch.
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Allow the top inch to dry slightly between waterings.
Soil: Well-draining, rich soil with organic matter works best.
Temperature: Thrive in warm temperatures (20–30°C / 68–86°F) and should be protected from cold drafts and temperatures below 15°C (60°F).
Dormancy: In cooler seasons, the plant enters dormancy. Tubers can be dug up, stored, and replanted in spring.

Uses and Benefits

Ornamental Value: Perfect for borders, shade gardens, patios, or indoor displays due to their bold color.
Container Gardening: Great for pots, hanging baskets, and window boxes.
Low Maintenance: Once established, they require minimal effort during the growing season.
Non-toxic to humans (though mildly toxic to pets if ingested).

Conclusion

Caladiums are a must-have for plant enthusiasts seeking vibrant color and tropical flair. Whether used to brighten a shady garden bed or add a touch of elegance indoors, Caladiums offer drama and beauty with relatively simple care, making them a favorite among both novice and seasoned gardeners.