Plants of the genus Caladium They have the peculiarity of having very, very showy and cheerful colored leaves. In addition, although in the wild they can measure up to 90 centimeters, in cultivation they rarely exceed half a meter.
The main drawback is that due to their origin they are extremely sensitive to cold, which is why they will only live well outdoors in areas where the temperature does not drop below 10 degrees Celsius. Although on the other hand, during the winter we can take advantage to enjoy them at home 😉. Discover more.
Origin and characteristics
The genus is made up of twelve species native to the rainforests of Brazil and Guyana. They are herbaceous plants with tuberculous roots that grow between 40 and 90cm. The leaves, which are born from the same tuber, appear at the end of the stems and can measure up to 60cm in length.. Its colors vary a lot: the base is green, but pink, white, crimson, or red hues alternate. The flower is a greenish spadix that does not have great ornamental value.
The whole plant is toxic. If consumed it will cause breathing problems in less than ten minutes.
What are their cares?
Image – Wikimedia / Captain-tucker
If you want to have a Caladium specimen, we recommend taking care of it in the following way:
- Location:
- Exterior: it must be in an area with lots of light but protected from direct sun.
- Indoor: in a bright room, with high humidity (it is achieved with a humidifier, or by putting glasses with water around it).
- Irrigation: 4-5 times a week in the hottest season, a little less the rest. Use rainwater or lime-free. Do not wet the leaves as they will rot.
- Subscriber: in spring and summer, with ecological fertilizers.
- Multiplication: by seeds and tuber division in spring.
- Pruning: remove dry leaves and wilted flowers.
- Planting or transplanting time: in spring. If it is potted, transplant every two years.
- Rusticity: it does not resist cold or frost.
What do you think of these plants?
