Hey plant parent family! Let me tell you a tale of a plant so bold and bright that it will make your eyes pop like a pirate’s treasure. It’s called the Caladium, and it’s a tropical wonder that will add a splash of color to any garden or indoor space.
First, let’s talk about its appearance. The Caladium has large, heart-shaped leaves that come in a range of colors, from deep greens to vibrant pinks and reds. Some even have a speckled or marbled pattern that looks like it was painted by an artistic octopus. These leaves are so mesmerizing that you’ll want to stare at them all day long.
But don’t let its beauty fool you, matey. Caladium is a tough cookie that can handle a variety of conditions. It likes warm temperatures and high humidity, which makes it perfect for tropical climates or indoor spaces with a humidifier. It also prefers indirect sunlight or shade, so you don’t have to worry about it getting too much sunburn.
One thing to note is that Caladium is toxic to pets and humans if ingested, so make sure to keep it out of reach from your furry or curious friends. But don’t let that discourage you from enjoying its charm.
Overall, the Caladium is a magnificent plant that will bring joy and life to any space. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a newbie plant parent, this tropical gem will make you feel like you’re on a Caribbean vacation every day. So grab your shovel and get ready to plant your own Caladium treasure. Arrrr!
Table of Contents
What is Caladium?
The Easter lily (Lilium longiflorum) is a perennial bulb with large, white, trumpet-shaped flowers and wonderful fragrance. Often known as the trumpet lily among gardeners, this plant is called the Easter lily in its role as a traditional Easter-time treat. Roughly 95 percent of the 11.5 million Eater Lilies sold each year are grown by one of a handful of growers located along the border of California and Oregon, an area labeled the “Easter Lily Capital of the World.”
– Marie Iannotti at The Spruce
What do Caladiums look like?
Easter lilies have beautiful white flowers that look like the speaker on an old crank tune record player or as most people see them trumpets. Some call these particular lilies, trumpet lilies. The insides of the Easter Lily are yellowish and their stamens are golden. Typically, the plants will have two to six of flowers with lengths between 5 and 7 inches. They have a potent and sweet scent, I actually did not smell them when I first brought them home but once I smelled the aroma, it was so captivating that it stopped me in my tracks. Beware of direct sunlight for long periods of time since it will make the flowers sag.
How to Care for the Caladium?
- Cool temperature between 55-70 degrees
- Bright indirect sunlight
- Water when soil is dry to the touch
- They can be hazardous to cats
- Keep moist but not soggy
- Do not leave in decorative foil while water because water will sit inside and cause the soil to be soggy at the bottom
- Remove the anthers, it can prolong life and can keep pollen from staining the flowers
- Prune, prune, prune
