Caladium - Angel Wings.
These are by far one of the most striking foliage plants available. They are tuberous ( Bulb ) plants and are often used in abundance in landscaping themes in warmer countries, where they make the most amazing displays. They are fast growing, adapt well to bright, indirect light, but also do well in partial shade.
The heart-shaped leaves come in a range of striking colours, can be paper thin, and are a joy to behold.
For our benefit we will treat this as an ideal plant for your home in a warm, bright position.
Keep your Caladium in natural, indirect light. This will promote the best growth and colouration. Must avoid strong, direct Sun as the leaves will definitely scorch.
During growth, Spring through Summer, keep moist. Just allow the top 1cm of soil to dry between watering. Do not allow to sit in water.
Can benefit from extra humidity, best done by placing on a saucer of moist gravel. Although average levels within the home should be fine.
Temperatures above 20c are ideal.
Feed weekly in growth with a diluted half strength liquid feed as per instructions.
Minimum Temp: 16c
Caladium are tuberous and will go dormant and die down after the growing season. The foliage will yellow and wilt. Once this happens remove the tubers from the pot and allow to dry out in a warm place. Once they have dried completely remove the dead foliage, they are now ready to be stored away in a cool dark place ready for next Spring. They can be divided before planting, just make sure that each part of the tuber has at least one growing eye, as this will form the stem. Pot in to fresh, free draining compost as temperatures start to rise, give very little water until there are signs of new growth, then continue to care for as before.
Caladium can be kept in the garden in a sheltered spot, once night temperatures are above 16c. Be sure to bring back inside once temperatures start to drop to avoid damaging the tuber.
Contains crystals of calcium oxalate, to deter livestock from eating them. Therefore problematic to pets and humans if consumed. Causes irritation and swelling in the mouth. Best practice is to keep out of reach.
