Angel Wings plants are a distinctive choice for indoor foliage, known for their unique appearance. Their soft, velvety, silvery leaves add texture and visual appeal to any indoor space.
Identifying Your Angel Wings Plant
The common name “Angel Wings” can refer to different plants. This article focuses on Senecio candicans ‘Angel Wings’, also known by its newer classification Bocaana candicans ‘Angel Wings’. This plant has large, broad, silvery-white leaves with a soft, downy, velvety texture and slightly scalloped edges. These features distinguish it from other plants, like Caladium varieties, which have different leaf textures and growth habits.
Essential Indoor Care for Angel Wings Plant
Light
Angel Wings plants thrive in bright, indirect light indoors. Place the plant near an east or north-facing window, or a few feet away from a south or west-facing window, to provide ample light without harsh direct exposure. Intense direct sunlight can scorch delicate leaves, leading to browning or discoloration.
Watering
Allow the top inch or two (2.5 to 5 cm) of soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is a common problem that can lead to root rot. During the cooler months of fall and winter, the plant’s water requirements decrease, so watering should be reduced.
Soil
Angel Wings plants require excellent drainage to prevent moisture-related issues. An ideal mix is well-draining, airy, and ranges from slightly acidic to neutral in pH. A good quality potting mix formulated for succulents or cacti is suitable. Amending standard potting soil with perlite or coarse sand improves drainage and aeration.
Temperature and Humidity
Angel Wings plants prefer average room temperatures, 65-75°F (18-24°C). They are sensitive to cold drafts, so place them away from frequently opened doors or air conditioning vents. While the plant tolerates average indoor humidity, higher humidity benefits its velvety foliage.
Fertilizing
Angel Wings plants benefit from occasional feeding during their active growing season. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength, once a month during spring and summer. Reduce or cease feeding entirely as growth slows in fall and winter. Over-fertilizing can lead to excessive, weak growth.
Pruning and Repotting Angel Wings Plant
Pruning maintains the plant’s shape and encourages bushier growth. Remove old, yellowing, or damaged leaves to keep the plant tidy and healthy. When pruning for new growth, make clean cuts just above a leaf node using sharp, sterile shears, ideally in early spring or late winter.
Repot when the plant becomes root-bound or its growth slows. When selecting a new container, choose one that is only one to two inches (2.5 to 5 cm) wider than the current pot to avoid excessive soil moisture. The best time for repotting is during the plant’s active growing season, in spring or early summer.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Yellowing or Browning Leaves
Yellowing or browning leaves indicate several issues. Overwatering is a common cause, as it can lead to root rot and prevent the roots from absorbing oxygen. Conversely, underwatering can also cause leaves to yellow and wilt due to a lack of moisture. Nutrient deficiencies or exposure to extreme temperatures can also contribute to leaf discoloration.
Pests and Diseases
Angel Wings plants can encounter common indoor plant pests. Spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids may infest the plant, often causing discoloration or wilting of leaves. Regularly inspecting the plant, especially the undersides of leaves, can help detect pests early. Treatments include wiping leaves with a damp cloth, applying insecticidal soap, or using neem oil. Overwatering can also lead to fungal issues like root rot or powdery mildew.
Loss of Silvery Color or Legginess
A noticeable dulling of the distinctive silvery color on the leaves often signals insufficient light. The plant relies on adequate light to maintain its vibrant foliage. If the plant appears stretched with elongated stems and sparse foliage, this ‘legginess’ is a clear indication of inadequate light exposure. Providing brighter, indirect light and pruning back leggy stems can help encourage more compact and bushier growth.