The “Heart of Jesus Plant,” or Caladium, is celebrated for its striking foliage. These plants are a popular choice for both indoor and outdoor settings, bringing vibrant colors and intricate patterns to any space. Their leaves display an array of colors, from brilliant reds and pinks to crisp whites and greens.
Essential Care Requirements
Light
The Heart of Jesus Plant thrives in bright, indirect light conditions. Placing them in a spot where they receive filtered sunlight, such as near an east-facing window or in a shaded outdoor area, is ideal. Direct sun exposure, especially during the intense midday hours, can scorch their delicate leaves, leading to faded colors or burned spots. Adequate light also contributes to the vibrancy and intensity of the leaf coloration.
Watering
The soil should be kept consistently moist but never soggy during the growing season. Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot. Ensure pots have adequate drainage holes, as standing water can lead to problems.
Soil and Potting
An ideal soil mix for Caladiums is well-draining yet rich in organic matter. A good quality houseplant potting mix, amended with perlite or peat moss, provides necessary aeration and moisture retention. Choose a pot appropriately sized for the tuber, allowing room for root growth. Pots must have drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
Temperature and Humidity
Caladiums prefer warm temperatures, ideally between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C). They are sensitive to cold and should be protected from temperatures below 60°F (15°C). These plants also appreciate high humidity, mimicking their tropical origins. To increase humidity around your plant, you can place the pot on a pebble tray filled with water, ensuring the pot itself does not sit in the water. Using a room humidifier can also provide a beneficial environment.
Fertilizing
During the active growing season, typically from spring through early fall, regular fertilization supports vigorous leaf production. A balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength, can be applied every two to four weeks. It is important to avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to nutrient burn or excessive salt buildup in the soil. Fertilization should be reduced or stopped entirely as the plant approaches its dormant period in the fall.
Understanding Dormancy
The Heart of Jesus Plant naturally enters a dormant phase, typically in the fall as temperatures drop and daylight hours shorten. This period allows the plant to rest and conserve energy for renewed growth. The foliage will begin to yellow and die back, signaling the onset of dormancy. This natural process is not a sign of a dying plant.
Once leaves wither, prepare tubers for storage. Dig them from pots, brush off excess soil, and air dry for a few days in a well-ventilated area. This drying prevents fungal growth. Inspect tubers for disease or damage, removing any unhealthy parts.
Store dried tubers in a cool, dry, dark location between 50°F and 60°F (10°C to 15°C). Place them in a mesh bag, paper bag, or container with peat moss or vermiculite for good air circulation. Avoid airtight containers, which can trap moisture and lead to rot. In early spring, re-awaken tubers by potting them in fresh soil with warmth and moisture.
Propagating Your Plant
Propagating the Heart of Jesus Plant is most commonly achieved by dividing its tubers. As the plant matures, the main tuber often produces smaller offsets or “eyes” that can be separated to create new plants. This division is best performed before planting tubers for the new growing season, typically in early spring.
To propagate, carefully examine the dormant tuber for these small protuberances or eyes, which are future growth points. Using a clean, sharp knife, cut the tuber into sections, ensuring that each section has at least one eye. Allowing the cut sections to air dry for a day or two helps the cut surfaces to callus over, reducing the risk of rot once planted. Plant these individual sections about 1-2 inches deep in a well-draining potting mix, with the eyes facing upwards.
Common Problems and Solutions
Leaf discoloration, such as browning edges or yellowing leaves, is a common issue with Caladiums. Browning edges often indicate low humidity or inconsistent watering. Increasing humidity and maintaining consistent soil moisture can help. Yellowing leaves, particularly older ones, can be a natural part of the plant’s life cycle or a sign of overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Adjusting watering practices and ensuring good drainage are important.
Caladiums can also occasionally attract pests like spider mites, especially in dry environments. These tiny pests often create fine webbing on the undersides of leaves and can cause stippling or discoloration. Regularly inspecting your plants for signs of pests is helpful. If spider mites are present, wiping the leaves with a damp cloth or applying an insecticidal soap can help control the infestation.
Is It Toxic?
The Heart of Jesus Plant, Caladium, contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can be irritating if ingested. All parts of the plant are considered toxic to both humans and pets. Ingestion can lead to symptoms such as oral irritation, swelling of the mouth and throat, difficulty swallowing, and vomiting. It is advisable to keep these plants out of reach of curious children and pets to prevent accidental exposure.