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Caladium
IntermediateCaladium bicolor
Bulb plant with large heart-shaped leaves in vivid pink, red, and white patterns. Grows spring-fall, dormant in winter. One of few plants with colorful foliage in shade.
About
Caladium bicolor, often called angel wings or elephant ear, is a tuberous plant in the family Araceae native to tropical South America (Brazil and the Amazon basin). It bears large, thin, heart-shaped leaves vividly patterned in pink, red, white and green, earning it the nickname 'queen of the foliage plants', and comes in a huge range of colour forms. It is seasonal: it grows from spring to autumn, then the foliage dies back and the tuber goes dormant over the cool winter. It prefers bright shade to partial shade; strong direct sun damages the leaves. It likes warmth and humidity, so keep the soil from drying out during growth, then keep the dormant tuber on the dry side. It is one of the few plants that hold brilliant leaf colour even in shade.
Lifespan of the Caladium
The Caladium lives Semi-permanent via bulb.
Size of the Caladium
The Caladium grows to 30-60cm.
Temperature & humidity for the Caladium
The ideal temperature for the Caladium is 18〜30℃.
Basic Info
Origin
Tropical South America (Brazil, Amazon basin)
Lifespan
Semi-permanent via bulb
Size
30-60cm
Temperature
18〜30℃
Humidity
50〜70%
Watering & Fertilizer
Liquid fertilizer twice monthly during growth
Growing Tips
Placement
Bright shade. Direct sun burns leaves
Watering
Generous during growth. Stop completely during dormancy
Temperature & Overwintering
Ideal range is 18-30°C and it goes dormant below 15°C. The top dies back in winter and the tuber rests, so store it on the dry side until spring.
Dormancy
When leaves die in autumn, dig up bulbs and store dry
Fertilizer
Feed liquid fertilizer twice a month during the spring to autumn growing season for full foliage. Do not feed dormant tubers.
Notes
Contains calcium oxalate. Keep away from pets and children
Caladium FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Caladium?
Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Caladium?
The ideal temperature for Caladium is 18〜30℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Caladium?
The average lifespan of Caladium is Semi-permanent via bulb. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Caladium get?
The mature size of Caladium is 30-60cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Caladium?
Caladium: watering & fertilizer — Liquid fertilizer twice monthly during growth. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Caladium?
The price of Caladium varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Growing Specifications
- USDA Zone
- 9–10
Sources: Missouri Botanical Garden Plant Finder - Caladium bicolor
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Foliage plant. Confirmed by document review to be non-applicable to CITES Appendix (Flora), designated invasive species, or designated animals (the genus does not appear in the CITES flora section; Dracaena spp. listings in CITES refer to a reptile genus of the same name; the plant Dracaena is not applicable).
Sources: CITES Appendices I/II/III (flora section, grepped via dbca mirror) / CITES Appendices (official) / Ministry of the Environment List of Specified Invasive Alien Species
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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