COLOURS AND SHAPES
There are a number of different species of this plant - even edible ones! Caladium bicolor is the best known species as a houseplant, with dozens of varieties. In recent years, many new varieties have been added that are characterised by striking colours and patterns, from deep red to dark green, from white to pink. Some have spots or speckles and others have darker edges.
ORIGIN
The plant is tuberous plant and is part of the Araceae family, which also includes other houseplants with a tuber such as Alocasia and Zantedeschia. Caladium is also sometimes called elephant's ear or angel's wings. The plant is native to the tropical rain forests of Brazil and the Amazon region, where it grows along riverbeds. The tubers are consumed there and are very nutritious.
tips
- Caladium can also be placed outside from May to September, provided the temperature does not drop below 15 degrees.
- Be careful with pets and children, because Caladium is slightly poisonous if ingested.
- The name Caladium comes from the Malaysian word keladi, which means plant with edible tuber.
