The ‘Angel Wings Flower,’ commonly known as Caladium, captivates with its vibrant, heart-shaped or arrow-shaped foliage. These striking ornamental plants are celebrated for their colorful leaves, which feature intricate patterns and a wide spectrum of hues including white, pink, red, and green, bringing tropical beauty to both indoor spaces and outdoor gardens.
What is an Angel Wings Plant?
The plant known as Angel Wings belongs to the genus Caladium, within the Araceae family. Native to the tropical rainforests of Central and South America, these tuberous herbaceous plants are primarily cultivated for their dramatic leaves, often reaching lengths of 6 to 18 inches. Their foliage comes in an impressive array of colors and patterns, including mottling, veining, and stripes in shades of green, white, pink, and red. Over 75 commercial cultivars exist, broadly categorized into fancy-leafed types with large heart-shaped leaves and strap-leafed or lance-leafed types with narrower, elongated foliage.
Essential Care for Angel Wings Plants
Light Requirements
Caladiums thrive in bright, indirect light. Direct exposure to intense sunlight can scorch their delicate leaves, leading to brown edges or faded colors. When grown indoors, a north or east-facing window generally provides suitable conditions, or a south or west-facing window with filtered light. Outdoor plants prefer partial to full shade for optimal leaf vibrancy and health.
Watering Needs
Consistent moisture is important for Caladiums, but avoid soggy soil to prevent tuber rot. Allow the top inch or two of the potting mix to dry out slightly between waterings. Water thoroughly until it drains from the pot’s bottom. Reduce watering frequency as the plant prepares for dormancy.
Soil Mix
A well-draining, nutrient-rich potting mix is ideal for Caladiums. A slightly acidic pH, typically between 5.5 and 6.5, is beneficial. Amending a standard potting mix with components like peat moss, perlite, coco humus, or sand enhances drainage and aeration while retaining adequate moisture.
Temperature and Humidity
Caladiums prefer warm temperatures, between 70°F and 85°F (21°C to 29°C) during the day, and above 60°F (15°C) at night. Cooler temperatures can induce dormancy or cause leaf loss. High humidity, ranging from 60% to 80%, is beneficial for these tropical plants. Misting leaves, using a pebble tray with water, or placing a humidifier nearby can help maintain desired humidity levels.
Fertilizing
During the active growing season, Caladiums benefit from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced, water-soluble liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength, every two to four weeks. A 10-10-10 or 8-7-6 N-P-K ratio is often recommended. Over-fertilization can burn leaves or cause colors to fade, so avoid applying fertilizer to dry soil. Fertilizing should cease as fall approaches and the plant prepares for dormancy.
Managing Dormancy and Propagation
Caladiums are tuberous plants that enter a dormant phase as temperatures cool and daylight hours shorten, typically in fall or winter. During this period, their foliage will begin to yellow and die back. To prepare for dormancy, reduce watering, allowing the leaves to shrivel and dry out. Once the foliage has died back, lift the tubers from the soil, clean them, and store in a cool, dry, dark place at temperatures around 55-60°F (13-16°C). Tubers need at least 10 weeks of rest before replanting in early spring, once soil temperatures consistently reach 60-70°F (15-21°C).
Propagation of Caladiums is achieved through the division of their tubers. This process is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Each section of the tuber should contain at least one “eye” or growth point. After cutting, allow the tuber pieces to “heal” or callus over to help prevent rot before planting. Plant these divided tubers about 2 inches deep, with the eyes facing upward, in fresh potting mix.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Caladiums often show symptoms when facing environmental stress or pests. Yellowing leaves signal either overwatering, which can lead to root rot, or insufficient watering causing wilting. Maintaining consistently moist, but not soggy, soil helps address this. Brown leaf tips or edges indicate low humidity, correctable by increasing ambient moisture. Fading leaf colors suggest inadequate light, prompting a move to a brighter, indirect light location.
Caladiums may occasionally encounter pests like spider mites, aphids, or mealybugs. Spider mites prefer dry conditions, so higher humidity can deter them. For these pests, regular application of insecticidal soap or neem oil spray manages infestations. Frequent inspection aids in early detection, preventing problems.
Safety Considerations
All parts of the Caladium plant are toxic if ingested by humans or pets. This toxicity is due to the presence of insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. Ingestion can cause irritation, pain, and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and lips, causing symptoms like excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. Keep Caladium plants out of reach of children and household pets.