Candidum Caladium

Basic Information

Common Name: Candidum Caladium

Scientific Name: Caladium ‘Candidum’

Native Habitat: Tropical forests of South America

History / Discovery / Cultivator

Caladiums, with their vibrant and intricately patterned leaves, have captivated plant enthusiasts for centuries. The ‘Candidum’ cultivar is a particularly striking example, renowned for its nearly translucent, paper-white foliage punctuated by delicate green veins. While the precise origins of the ‘Candidum’ caladium are somewhat veiled in horticultural history, its lineage traces back to the wild Caladium species native to the tropical rainforests of South America, primarily Brazil and the surrounding regions. These plants thrive in the warm, humid understory, where dappled sunlight filters through the dense canopy.

The story of Caladium cultivation is intertwined with the broader history of botanical exploration and the Victorian era’s fascination with exotic plants. Wild Caladium species were collected by intrepid botanists and introduced to Europe in the 18th century. However, it was in the 19th century, particularly in the United States, that intensive breeding programs began to transform these wild ancestors into the dazzling array of cultivars we know today. Florida, with its warm climate and burgeoning horticultural industry, emerged as a key center for Caladium propagation and hybridization.

Although pinpointing the exact individual responsible for creating the ‘Candidum’ cultivar is difficult, many hybridizers contributed significantly to the development of the Caladium genus. During the height of their popularity, families and commercial growers specialized in creating the vibrant caladiums that were popular in the US in the late 1800’s to mid-1900’s. Many historical cultivars that were popular then are still sold today.
It is likely ‘Candidum’ emerged from this period, the product of careful selection and cross-pollination aimed at enhancing specific traits such as leaf color, pattern, and overall plant vigor. The ‘Candidum’ name itself suggests the intended purity and brightness of its white leaves.

The ‘Candidum’ Caladium quickly gained popularity as a prized ornamental plant, adorning gardens, greenhouses, and eventually indoor spaces. Its unique coloration, setting it apart from other Caladium varieties, made it a sought-after addition to plant collections. Its enduring appeal is a testament to the skillful hybridizers who recognized and cultivated its unique beauty, bringing a touch of the tropics into homes and gardens around the world. Today, ‘Candidum’ remains a beloved Caladium cultivar, continuing to charm plant lovers with its ethereal beauty and reminder of the rich botanical heritage behind these spectacular plants. The continued popularity of ‘Candidum’ is due to its unique leaf color that stands out among all other plant leaves.

Plant Care Summary

Botanical Insights

Adaptations

Caladiums, including ‘Candidum’, have evolved several adaptations to thrive in their native tropical environment. Their large, thin leaves are well-suited for capturing the dappled sunlight that filters through the rainforest canopy. The plant’s tuberous root system allows it to store water and nutrients, enabling it to survive periods of drought or dormancy. The bright coloration of the leaves, while appealing to humans, may also serve as a form of camouflage in the dappled light of the forest floor or as a warning signal to potential herbivores, given the plant’s toxicity. In cultivation, the dormancy period is a key adaptation, allowing the plant to conserve energy during cooler months or when growing conditions are less than ideal.

Propagation Methods

‘Candidum’ Caladiums are most commonly propagated by tuber division. This involves carefully separating the tubers into sections, each containing at least one “eye” or bud, and planting them in well-draining potting mix. Another method is through seed propagation, although this is less common as it can be more time-consuming and may not produce plants that are true to the parent cultivar. Tissue culture is also used commercially to produce large quantities of Caladiums, ensuring consistent quality and characteristics.

Toxicology

Caladium ‘Candidum’, like other members of the Caladium genus, contains calcium oxalate crystals in all parts of the plant. These crystals are needle-shaped and can cause significant irritation if ingested or if plant sap comes into contact with skin or eyes. In humans, ingestion can lead to intense burning sensations in the mouth and throat, excessive drooling, difficulty swallowing, and vomiting. Contact with the skin can cause redness, itching, and burning. Pets, such as cats and dogs, are similarly affected, and may exhibit symptoms such as pawing at the mouth, drooling, and vomiting. It’s crucial to keep Caladiums out of reach of children and pets, and to wear gloves when handling the plants to avoid skin irritation. Seek veterinary attention immediately if a pet ingests any part of the plant.

Common Problems

Pests:

• Spider mites
• Aphids
• Mealybugs

Diseases:

• Root rot
• Fungal leaf spot
• Tuber rot

Other:

• Leaf scorch: Caused by direct sunlight.
• Tuber rot: Caused by overwatering or poor drainage.
• Fading Leaf Color: Due to lack of fertilizer and nutrients in the soil.

Rarity & Value

Rarity:

While ‘Candidum’ is not considered extremely rare, high-quality specimens with particularly vibrant white leaves and strong veining can be more difficult to find. This is due to the specific growing conditions required to maintain its coloration and the potential for leaf damage. Additionally, older, more established plants with larger tubers may command a higher price due to their maturity and display potential.

Value:

The value of a ‘Candidum’ Caladium is primarily determined by its size, the health and vibrancy of its leaves, and the overall aesthetic appeal of the plant. Plants with larger, more numerous leaves, and particularly clear and bright white coloration, tend to be more valuable. The maturity of the plant, with larger tubers, also influences its price. Demand also influences value, as collector trends fluctuate the plants that are most desirable at any point in time.